Test drove a new Z today and am considering it for my next car. I'm currently doing a job in the Southwest that requires me to have truck and probably won't get anything until the job is finished and I no longer need the truck sometime in November or December.

I was hoping to get by with a base model but the need for LSD and traction control has bumped me up to an enthusist. I'm open to either new or used depending on price since purchasing a home is hopefully in my not-to-distant future. However the dealership gave me a loose quote of $27,900 for an 6sp enthusist with aero package (seemed every one on the lot had it) and some other minor options and $25,900 for a base similarly equiped today. How does compare to the prices you guys have seen/gotten? What should I be going for in terms of price?

 

If you buy used make sure you find out about tire feathering.

 

I would not buy a 2003 because you might have an issue with tire feathering. I have a 2004 and haven't had any issues yet (7500 miles). By the time your ready to buy they should be getting the 05 models and maybe you can get a deal on a 04. Good luck!

 

I would recommend buying the home first. Thats exactly what I am doing. Step one (the house) is done, and step 2 is coming soon.

I think its better on your credit that way and much easier to get approved (and a good rate) on the house.

my .02

 

Get a new Zzzz; never know how used one was treated.

Get an Enthusiast; most bang for buck. You get a lot of goodies for extra 2 Gs.

Price should be between $2000 below MSRP & MSRP; exact will depend on when/where you buy. Add taxes & license only after determing price.

 

Go with the Enthus. I had to struggle to find a DB 6sp Enthus at any dealer and ended up paying $200 over MSRP for it.

 

I personally got a used performance. The thing that pushed me up to performance over the enthusiast was I had heard good things about the VDC. I havent really been in a situation yet where I would need it but I figured it was a good option. Plus the 18" wheels because I dont know when im gonna have the money to get aftermarket :-) Good luck with whatever you decide