I'm about 90 % sold on the roadster, but I'm looking for any pros and cons between the 04 and 05 roadsters. I'm trying to gather as much information as possible. Any help is much appreciated.

If you're unsure of the information you're about to post, I'd rather you didn't until you've confirmed the info relevant to this thread.

Thanks

 

Actually there are two versions of the roadster in 04. There was the 04 and the 04.5. The 04 was the original model. There were still some instances of tire feathering reported on the 04 models. Ithink most of that was resolved by the 04.5 model. Also the 04 model had the original frame design in the convertible top. The cloth stitching, design and 4th strut were changed for the 04.5. This eliminated the pinhole problem in the early tops caused by the struts rubbing the fabric when the top was in the stowed position.

Both the 04 and 04.5 suffer from brittle paint. The paint finishes were overhardened causing them to chip extemely easily. I hope this has been taken care of in 05, but do not have any confirmation.

Hope this is of some help. These are the only major issues I know of.

 

No luck on paint chipping issue.

My ZR got 3 chips within first 200 miles.
makes me just thinking about it.
Clear bra or nose mask, choose your poison.

I would go with 2005, since it has more standard feature(s) and will depreciate slower than 04, unless you get a super deal on 04 roadster.

 

Now, you only get the extra HP if you go with the 35 Annv. edition, correct?

 

I think it's the Track model and 35th Anniv. Coupe that gets 300HP... rest gets same 287HP engine...

Go to the thread below for more info on 35th anniv. edition and GT ZR...

Read this thread

 

From a cost standpoint, I would argue that if you plan on keeping the car a while and you can get the 04 at a decent discount, than you should get the 04.

In 7 years, the price difference between an 04 and 05 will be negligable.

 

Yup, I intend on keeping this car for a long long time. Very good point.

 

If you want a car that you will keep, do minor/maj modifications and treat as your closest friend/sister, then save the bucks and find a low mile 04.5. Mine is a Jan build '04.5, Lemans Sunset w/BO seats. Just turned 15K, changed wornout tires to S 03s (due to very heavy foot and zero tire feathering like '04) and only one fender ding w/17 coats of Zaino.

I've thought seriously about a new C-6 Vette and top-notch AC Cobra replica, but think I'm going to stay with Zeta. She's an awful lotta fun!

 

www.nissanusa.com Can't get any more accurate than that......

 

Question for you and other roadsters - Do you find...

1. The inside road noise loud?
2. That there is a big blind spot due to no rear quater windows?

 

1. Since this is my first convertible, I have nothing to compare it with. However, I must say I am really amazed how quite it is with the top up.

2. 95% of the time the top is down. It does feel odd when the top is up, but that is only because I am so use to having the top down. I really don't find the blind spots to be any real problem.

 

Thanks for the info DeZigner. I have to say, this board is great. Straight forward answers without dumbass comments.

Anymore information on this topic is still greatly appreciated.

 

With the top up, the blind spot is big, get used to using your mirrors when backing up. But from what I understand this is common with all convertibles.

Road noise is louder than a coupe obviously, but I can drive on the highway and without it bothering me. Take it for a test drive.

 

Well, not all convertibles have blind spots. I have an 03 Mitsu Spyder GT and they have the little quarter windows.

I took the roadster for a test drive but didn't really have a lot time with it. Sales guy was a bit of a chicken.

 

I say that on every car I buy, but every time a hot new model comes out eyes starts to twitch and hands get itch.. hehehe

must... resist... temptation.... resistance is futile

 

Question for you and other roadsters - Do you find...

1. The inside road noise loud?
2. That there is a big blind spot due to no rear quater windows?

My top is hardly ever up, but on the few occaisions, it was remarkably quiet for a soft top. Most sound came from behind and left of driver. It is very loud during rain storm, first time was disconcerting.

Yes there is a blind spot, but I have my mirrors set correctly so that I am always checking back window, then mirrors. Not a big problem, unless you get sloppy.

 

I had an 03 Daytona Blue touring and traded it in for a Super Black Euthusiast model. I was not really impress with the leather seats, 6 cd changes and so on. I wanted something simple and fun, I'm glad I made that choice. I was also looking at the S2000; however, to small and you got to red line it to 8000-9000 rpm to get the VTEC power out of it. The Z is so fun to drive. If you go get one I would recommed getting 3M clear bra or a bra to avoid some stone chips. Good luck with your decision!

 

I know the feeling oh so well. It's a sickness really.

 

Oh, one more topic - Roof Leaks.

My Spyder's roof leaks in 4 places and after 3 tries the dealer still can't get it right. It only really leaks a lot if I take it through a touchless car wash. ie. high presure wash.

Has anyone come across that with the roadster's top?

 

Oops... wrong button.