I am new member and joined to get some help/advise on purchasing used Z. I need input on which is best year to purchase. I hear that 03-04 had transmission issues and 06 with rev'd up engine has oil consumption. So is 07 HR engine manual best bet ? What about 05's? Appreciate any help you can offer.

 

If you've got the funds go for a 07 simply for the cosmetic upgrades vs >06 and the hr engine.

 

Well that guy ^ has no idea what he's saying, so disregard his comment..

07-08 would be the best years to buy. If I had to choose other than that, I'd choose 04.

You can search to see what years come with what, etc..

 

I'll be honest a 2007-2008 is the best engine wise.

But best bang for your $$ right now is 2003-2005. I personally would look into a 2004.5 because it has some revisions and you can pay a lesser price. I don't think you will notice much difference if it's a daily driver between the two.

Never buy a car that:
1) Has a salvage title
2) Has been modified

Those are my two main observations, as I've had bad experiences with both in the past.

 

Thanks for info I like the idea of the 4.5. Agree with 2 your 2 points as well

 

how do u distinguish a 2004.5 vs a 2005?

 

I would look at the VIN sticker on the driver door sill.

Also the 2004 should have knee pads for the driver and passenger. I know there are some other slight differences you can see but forgot.

 

gotcha - what should the vin of a 2004.5 350z be though?

 

I know there is that info on here somewhere. I have a 2004.5 and my production date was 06/2004.

The 2004.5 will also have the cig lighter under the passenger dash and the kneepads.

And you don't really want to distinguish between a 2004.5 and 2005 but between the 2004. Nissan did some mid year revisions including the springs, tire feathering issues and some other stuff.

 

Cosmetically, 2006+. Best engine + Cosmetically, 2007+.

You will be paying premium on a 2007+ tho compared to 2006 and under. (and it is all worth it for the 2007+)

 

Whatever you decide on buying, please refer to the following link so you do not overpay based on the "trim" the used car dealer claims: https://my350z.com/forum/buying-leas...0z-models.html

And please do the smart thing and ask for the Carfax, most dealers will provide one free of charge. If not, usually they're hiding a bad history.

I know it seems like common sense but just thought I'd throw it out there.

 

if a car was in an accident, and then repaired, is there a way to check if its been done properly? other than having a mechanic in a shop just look it over for a safety...

 

Buy my 08 MT in white so I can buy a Nismo 370!!!!! hahaha