Opinions on used 2003 350z
 

Hello all,
I am currently in the market for a 350z that I plan to use once in a while for my commute to work and as a weekend drift car. (I already have a daily I can use).

I saw what I think is a pretty good deal, but would like your opinions on it.

https://losangeles.craigslist.org/lg...187697235.html

I talked to the owner earlier today, and he said that the car was being used by his wife. He bought her a jeep though, so the 350 has been sitting in their driveway for 4-5 months. He said he drove the car periodically so it wasn't just sitting there though. They are the 2nd owner, and they purchased the car from their mother's friend. Overall, it seems like a 350z in good shape with pretty low mileage. The only downside is that they do not have maintenance records. I'd obviously do a pre-purchase inspection before pulling the trigger on it though.

Any thoughts on how good of a deal this is?

I am slightly scared by all the comments about how bad the tranny is on the 2003 models (and oddly enough all the other years really). On the other hand, if the transmissions are really that bad, I highly doubt the 350 and 370 would be so popular.

Honestly I hate to rain on anyone's parade.
The ds seat cover has had a large butt it.

Everything else looks good, bone-stock and og. If you like it, drive it and get it inspected, good price for miles/age!
Go for it! gl.

^^^ This. But I'd definitely get the front & rear pizza checked out.

On the tranny, not ALL early transmissions had bad synchros although it's relatively common. I've had the notorious 3rd gear gronk since I bought mine five years ago. Yeah, sometimes in overly swift shifting it gronks but with careful rev match, not much of an issue.

My only issue would be that seat.. Not a real big deal though. Test drive it. Check for leaks. Listen for odd noises. Check front tires for scrubbing/uneven wear. Check brake fluid for clarity. Check antifreeze in reservoir tank for browning(rust). Not that any of these should deter you from buying it, but it helps to ascertain a idea of performed routine maintenance.

Run a compression test as well. Could have alot of abuse since it's an 03'. Would not wanna buy a car that will just burn a quart of oil every 100 miles.

Good luck.

I have 3rd gear grind also. Not a big deal., it's been there fir 6 years.
RPM match and no grind.

Appreciate the advice guys! I got my search narrowed down to two 350s. The seat does look horrible but I'll probably put in a racing seat to better hold me in place when I get sideways. Maybe I'll see some forum members at the tracks in SoCal. Thanks again!

Instead of getting a drift car, these cars were mighty tempting:

https://ventura.craigslist.org/cto/6178178493.html

https://orangecounty.craigslist.org/cto/6187544280.html