I am looking to get another Z (just sold my 03) but I am not sure whether to lease a brand new Z or get a slightly used one. I am trying to keep my payments reasonable and leasing is good for that, but on the other hand I have been told so many times that when I drive off the lot my car value just plummets and its pointless to get an 08 when I can just get an 05-06 with low miles.

I am so confused right now and I just want to make the best decision. Just a few things about myself: I don't want to mod the hell out of the Z (been there done that) nor do I drive everywhere under the sun so that aspect of leasing would be alright. On the other hand I like change and I'm sure in 2-3 years I will want a new car.

I am sick of thinking.....lol

 

If no mods will be involved and since you like to change cars every few years, go with the lease.

 

Thanks!

I just test drove a black manual 08 and I LOVED it. Clutch feels like butter =)

 

orrr.. maybe you can wait for the next gen Z and buy a beater for now. Up to you.

 

Leasing a car figures the depreciation into the whole equation, so comparing leasing to buying used doesn't really work. Your decision should be do you want a new car or a used car? If you decide on a new car, then you need to decide if you want to lease or buy.

When you lease a new car you are basically paying rent on the car. After the contract expires, you either return the car to the dealer, or buy it from the dealer at a given price (and make more payments). You almost never have any equity in a leased car, but when you lease you usually can get a new car ever 2-3 years.

A used car generally has the depreciation already considered into the lower price (as compared to the price of a new car). Of course, now it is a used car -- with all that that entails.

 

This will also work.

 

I hate the clutch, it's too smooth for me

 

If indeed they are going to change the Z in 09, then I'd be a little patient and lease an 09. If you like a new car every 3 or so years and can keep it under 15K a year, then leasing is the way to go. I have a second car so I can keep miles off the Z, don't drive it on the bad days, and still fall well below the limit and keep it nice. I put on 7K in 07 on mine. I've actually gotten money back on some of my leases at the end of term. but thats me, New Cars FTW!
SZ

 

You know I had the same question and decided to lease b/c I never keep my cars long anyway and if you decide to put money into or go over your mileage on the lease then take the buyout option at the end so you don't get charged and you can keep it or sell it...my buyout at the end of the lease is less than 10K so I figure if I decide to sell it I can actually make a bit of money.

 

Check a lease contract closely to be sure you get no surprises at the end of the contract period. If you exceed a predetermined number of miles you'll be stuck paying for the excess. You won't be able to mod the car at all unless you can easily remove it with no trace. Check what is considered normal wear and tear and what you may have to pay for if anything. The downside to leasing as I see it is that you will never own the car and you will always be driving "someone else's" car. Check also if there is a provision to terminate the lease early in case you want to move to a different car.

I've always preferred to buy a car and I have been able to pay cash for my last 5 cars. If a lease works for you then go for it but be very careful what you sign.

 

Leasing is a good way to drive a car that you cannot afford to buy.

 

It is a lot smoother then the older Z's. I am half and half. I like it because its easier, but I am used to putting all of my body weight into a clutch and I kinda like it that way. 04 track ftw. lol

 

True for some, maybe for you, but easily misconstrued nonetheless. Most people with 'lots' of cash actually lease, like all the top execs at the company I work for.

I could afford to buy my Z but why if I'm going to get a new one in 3 years and keep the miles down. Not a good investment to be dumping 'equity' in a depreciating asset that you may or may not get a return on. Not to mention the hassle of selling the thing. My Z is my toy, not my daily driver, unless we get a string of nice weather that is.

 

So is borrwing the money with an installment loan.

bill

 

Leasing is popular with young members because they do not have the cash for a down payment purchase. For these members price means nothing. The only thing that matters is monthly payments.

 

Well I made the decision. Im getting an 08 black Z in 2 weeks because they had to order it from another dealership. Thanks guys! =)

 

is the '08 smoother than the '07? (clutch)

 

Congrats. I've been with Nissan for years and the lease rates this month finally improved to the point I consider it a viable option.

 

No congratulations until the keys are in your hand.

 

True



As far as the 07 clutches...Im not sure....I've never driven an 07.