I'm in the same boat... I've been waiting for the specs for the 05 35th anniversary track model to make a final decision, but the wait has forced my eye to other cars. Such as the WRX STi, the new EVO MR, even the S2000. And I'm still leaning to the Z, although the MR seems to be a fun ride.
http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?

Overall I'm looking for something to keep for awhile and play with, and the upgraded HP potential of Z seems to be at a much higher level than the others (take your pick of superchargers or twin turbos).

As for looks, well, it's all a matter of opinion, but I prefer the Z and what the style of the Z's base provides for body mods (like shaving off those Frankenstein-ed looking door handles). And while I rant... I just can't get next to the interior's over-use of the metallic trim, especially on the steering wheel. All could be forgiven if the windshield wiper and turn signal arms didn't look neckbolt's made by IKEA... which get me thinking about the door handles again... but I digress...

AWD or RWD... AWD's launch nicely and stick to the road, but always felt stiff to me. Nothing wrong with breaking traction when needed
I guess it all depends on how one likes to drive.

My only other concern, since I've been researching the Z for awhile now (my 2004 purchase was preempted by the purchase of a house... seemed sensible then to wait for the next model year), is the little issues brought up in this very forum that people have. Such as, reports of the feathering issues extending into the 2004.5 model years, and the buckling or rippling of the roof above the door.
https://my350z.com/forum/showthread....threadid=69507

Ah well a few more months of waiting won't kill me... but I can't guarantee the safety of others

 

look Z <> speed GTR <> family car WRX

 

Hmm. I see people in their 50's till driving thier 240 z's on weekends. I talked to one of them and they still talk about their car as if they got it yesterday. If i purchased a WRk i dont think I would would driving down on sunny sunday afternoon 20 years from now.

BTW, i'm 32 years old and I can see myself taking the twisties with my Z 20 years from now, as if i pursased it the day before. Its that fun to drive.