I'm in the market for a new car, budget is roughly 25k. It's been a couple of weeks and I was pretty much set on getting an 06 RSX-S until I discovered that an used 03 Z might actually fit my budget. Now I was never too interested in the Z to begin with, but I thought that since it's an option I'd give it a chance anyways and headed down to an used car dealership that had a blue 03 touring with 10k miles on it going for 26k.

I always thought I'd hate the cheap interior and I always thought that I'd hate the aggressive styling, I pretty much thought I'd hate everything about it except for that fabulous engine. But as it turned out, I was wrong. Now this particular car was in a pretty bad shape, the interior smelled like cup noodle, cig burns on the doors and headliner, dirty and oily steering wheel, lots of swirls on the otherwise beautiful paint. The entire interior rattled like it was going to fall apart when I drove over some rough bumps and there was a warning light at the bottom of the left gauge (can't remember what it was, I think it was a circle with two arrows inside pointing at each other, any ideas?)

BBUUUUT, BUT But but, I loved the car for its pure simplicity. Once I started driving I didn't even care about the hard plastics in the interior because I'm too involved to touch any of them anyways, I'm just driving around enjoying that intoxicating wounded tiger growl from those huge tailpipes (loved them). Never even bothered to mess with the A/C or the stereo because they felt unnecessary. I never thought I'd do it but when I got hot I just rolled down the window on the freeway because I didn't want to bother trying the A/C, I had to keep driving, and that's all I wanted to do. I thought I'd hate the styling and the stupid high belt line, but it felt right. I've never felt more alive in a car before that I think I can honestly call this car special, gave me a sense of satisfaction that I didn't think I could get before. As much as I always loved to drive, I always thought sports cars were unpractical, vulgar and stupidly over-the-top. But it's actually exactly what I like, what a trip! I didn't return the car for 45 mins, I loved it.

Now the dilemma, I absolutely positively HAVE to have a reliable car for the next 5 years so I can save the money and get a house. Not having a practical car is doable, but not having a reliable car is not. I'm a non-modder so you guys can exclude that from your consideration, and I also won't be driving a lot (around 6-7k miles a year). If I treat the Z with great care always following maintenance schedule (I'm not a modder but AM a big enthusiast), will it be a reliable car that will last 5+ years?

Lastly, since I'm not a modder, I'd really like to get the touring because I like the wheels and the leather seats, do you guys think I will be able to find a good conditioned Z with low miles that fits my budget? Or do you guys think that the RSX-S is a better choice?

 

On one hand you mention an emotional attachment and excitement about the 350Z, then on the other, you say that your priority is reliability. If your priority is reliability, there are better choices than a high performance sports car. Sometimes we sit with pencil and paper, list pros and cons, and make rational decisions. At other times we toss reason out the window, and go with our heart.

 

Just read this https://my350z.com/forum/maintenance-and-repair/39553-post-here-only-if-you-have-had-your-tranny-replaced.html and if you still want a Z after you do, go for it. I am in your shoes. Have had very reliable cars; love the Z but also need the reliability to drive 20k miles per year with no trips to the dealer.

Why not look at other used cars in your price range? How about Lexus IS?

 

There is nothing wrong with an 04.5+ Z. Most of those are early 04 and 03. There are some NEW 05's going for 25K... Look into that. Reliability with tires and tranny are slim to none with an 04.5 +. I have a late 04 and I have had NO problems in my 17K miles. Only trip to the dealer was from a damn deer running into my door. Had to have a few dents poped out.

 

imo...
i agree with master Clay
i got 3 trannies in 12k miles... (03!)

 

My 03 has had zip problems other than minor feathering. My only trips to the shop have been one tire alignment and normal maintenance.

Still, I get an 04 or later just to reduce probabilities. I'd go for an 04 Enthusiast rather than 04 Touring to hit your budget. You can always change wheels & add leather later.

 

You might look for used Zzzs in other states. Buy one & drive it back. A guy from LA bought one in St Louis & drove back. I'm assuming you can find lower prices in states other than Cali.

 

I have an 03 and had a tranny replacement. Try an 04 or 05 just to be safe. You should be able to find one in your price range. And Definitley this car over an RSX. There is NO comparison, especially if you're not a modder. The VQ engine is rock solid and could easily last 200k miles if not modded. If you're only driving 6-7k miles per year, a low mile Z could last you 20 years!

 

Which did you choose the 350Z or Acura.

 

without a doubt a 350 over the RSX bro...there is NOTHING like flying down the highway to the tune of one of the most beautiful exhaust notes ever designed. good luck

 

+1

 

What is the point of opening a tread with a question, then not replying to others posts. You are rude and a waste of my time.

 

If reliability is a concern, why not get a new 06 base? You can get one for around $26K, some have gotten it for less than that. Insurance and gas bills will be higher, but 'feeling alive' is priceless.

If you really want that leather, find a 04.5 or 05.

 

Anyone have an idea what the starting build date is for 2004.5 ?? March '04 or April '04.

 

The price for that Z is way to high. There are several in the south bay at dealers for less than that.