Hi guys,

Just to introduce myself because I am a NOOB and I thought it only fair...
My name is Lauren and I am a new 350 Z owner. It's been my dream to own a Z ever since my dad had one back in the day....

Anywho, I am currently in need of some opinoins.
I am currently trying to decide between a 2005 350 roadster/convertible with 70k Touring edition, or a 2006 Enthusiast coupe with 67k. I currently have the '05 in my possession due to the fact that the '06 was late on the delivery to the dealership. Now, I am torn because, while I am in love with the '05 and the features (leather seats, better stereo ect.) I have a certain member of the family (who is a car freak) who has made me a bit paranoid that having a convertible, those are likely to be knifed and/or stolen/damaged ect. I DO live in Los Angeles, but not south central. I park in a car port, but not on one day of the week due to trash having to be taken out near my space. I used to have an Xterra where the spare did get stolen off the car when it was parked on the street. I have never seen any vandalism on cars in the area and while I know things like this DO happen, I was wondering to get at least SOME insight on some veteran Z owner's thoughts. (I also never keep anything of value in the car in sight) This Z is my baby, and I just want to look at my options from all angles.

...and yes, I of course have insurance...but still...

Any and all comments are greatly appreciated.
Thanks you guys, I look forward to being a member of the family.

-Lauren

 

What exactly are you asking..?

 

convertibles are nice, but how often would you really have the top down? to me the z convertibles kinda look funny, i like the way that the coupe looks alot more. what is the price difference between the two

 

Ragusa- As stated above, I'm asking for an opinion/experiences.

Travlee- not much of a difference about a grand difference to be honest.

 

i had a convertible and it was nice, but being in texas it was almost too hot to put the top down. what you need to do is figure out which one you are going to be happier with in the long run. i get what your significant other is saying, tops are expensive, so what i did was just leave the door unlocked... i never kept anything in the car....

the 06's are known for oil consumption, the convertibles are know for the 5th bow motor to go out

 

the theft part you can't really get around either get cameras or something, scummy people will not go away.

 

Some of what you are asking is very subjective.
Like the choice between the 2 Z's.IMO,the roadster conversion of the
beautiful coupe does not work.But,I believe everyone should have a convert once in
their life.Better a real sportscr like a MG though.
Again,IMO--it would drive me nuts worrying about my car if I lived in
a area such as you do.I'd move or not own a car that theives would hit.
A roadster is gonna be a problem.Thugs may slice the top open just to see whats inside.
Insurance?
Bud,life is too short,move.

 

the 2006 has the better looking headlight and taillights......

It basically comes down to if you want a convertible or not.

 

^ true, way better lights

 

I've got an 06 Roadster and live in Detroit- never had a problem + my studio is in a less than desirable area (converted warehouse). I'll leave it outside all day and night and haven't had any theft or vandals tearing anything up. My thoughts are they glance in, don't see anything left strewn about and move on- idk if they realize there is a trunk, but my buddy with an 03 coupe has had his rear hatch glass blown out by vandals. It's just what you'd rather have, I guess

Agreed on the looks of the coupe- I personally prefer the coupe over the vert, but I do LOVE driving with the top down, which is generally the only way I'll drive it when the weather permits

 

I have an 07 roadster and I live in Western Ny. in the summer my top is never up unless it is raining, why else would you buy a convertible? Yes when the top is up it doesnt look as nice as a coupe, but with the top down there is no debate. Roadster all the way!!!

 

haha, come to texas and do that with the 100+ degree temps.....i really enjoyed mine at night...

 

The 2006+ models have better lighting than previous years

Plus the convertible has less structural rigidity than the coupe

Nick C.

 

i have a vert and dream of the day I can take Akiko up and dow the beach blvd with the top down.. day or night unless its 100 like texas.. than yes too hot even with the air on

 

A girl!


Seriously though: coupes are nicer.

 

haha..... i knew it was just a matter of time before you noticed that.. a cali girl even... DONT RUN HER OFF

 

OP, I'm a nice guy. Trust me.

 

^ famous last word... You may as well say it doesn't hurt without lube...

 

back to the issue at hand..... Lauren, what are you going to be happiest with in the long run.

 

Hardtop.

When the top goes down, price goes up. I wouldn't ever own a ragtop too many issues, the top will break in time. And it looks ugly when up.