liebertron

I am looking to buy a used roadster convertible but really am not sure which way to go. It will be my "third car", I live in Northern Virginia so driving a nice car all the time is a disaster waiting to happen in terms of repairs and dings and such. Really am looking to keep it in my garage and pull it out on nice days or trips to the mountains, etc.

I am leaning towards 2004ish 350z, id like to keep it under 10k as its really just going to be a toy. But maybe I should go z4 or s2000... I need help! I feel like the Nissan is the right choice based on what I have read about engine life and repairs.

Z1NONLY

iTrader: (2)

I have driven all three and prefer the S2k for on-track performance.

However if you are looking for a "cruiser" that handles pretty well, the Z will fit the bill nicely.

superstuddc27

iTrader: (1)

Uh if you're looking for a toy, it's not even a question. S2000 assuming you fit in the car.

This is my second Z, had two s2000, a couple muscle cars and the S2000 would be my go-to car hands down if it was a toy. Not a daily driver.
Go test drive one, there's NOTHING that handles like that with such a beautiful engine that screams to redline.
Plus the Z roadster looks like **** imo, when they made it into a vert they took away the Z's biggest appearance strength, the curves and lines of the hatchback. Plus it's heavy (heavier than a couple).

JERZ350

iTrader: (2)

I personally prefer to stay away from OWNING a BMW....once stuff starts to go...you'll hate it. I would say BMW's are good for leasing before stuff goes bad.

chitownpete

Bought a 2004 350Z convertible 4 years ago (only had 23,000 miles) for a 3rd car and have only replaced a battery and accesory belts (didn't have to, just saw they were starting to crack) since. A used BMW is generally expensive and maintenance heavy and I just hate peaky engines (S2000) that are slow as **** unless you are at full throttle at 7000 RPMs. I originally wanted a air cooled 911 convertible but couldn't buy it since none of them had tilt wheel and my knees wouldn't fit under the wheel (had to drive it bow legged). You're smart getting a convertible for a 3rd car, hardtops are boring in comparison. A 2 seat convertible is the closest you can get to a motorcycle for thrills. The 350z gives you the option of not having to downshift every time you want to accelerate, the engine is very flexible. Get the 350Z Roadster, it's the best car for all around use but the Z4 is not a bad choice and can be purchased at a reasonable price. By one thats stock with no mods and low miles, it's worth paying more now and less later. Trust me on this.

Jennifer 2

One thing to consider is cabin aerodynamics with he top down. Of the three of these cars, the Z has the least turbulence and wind buffeting on the back of your head when the top is down. This may not be a huge thing to you, but your wife/girlfriend (or both of them) will greatly appreciate not having her carefully coiffed hairdo turn into a rat's nest.