I KNEW somebody would raise this issue. It was the first poster, too. Please let me ask: How does my intended application influence your final choice? You don't have to go into fine detail, but I am very interested in such salient points. This is precisely why I asked the question. Tell me it doesn't make a d@mn bit of difference, or tell me it does... and why. So far, as you can see, I'm getting some excellent input. Thanks, folks.

My question is only one notch above hypothetical at this point, but I thought the thread would be of good general interest anyway. That said, if I were to buy a 350Z, it would be for part-time use only, mostly street-driven, with a goal of producing a well-balanced corner carver with about 400-450 WHP. I want that 6MT, too. It may see a track (drag and closed-course), but not too often... Famous last words!

I want a broad power band, with an engine that pulls all the way to 7100rpm. I would probably over-build and tune conservatively for peace of mind alone. I'd buy a a used 2003 in very good shape, or a new Z right off the lot. And that is the crux of the matter. If one can buy any Z model they want, which of all these models/years of Zs would be best for F/I, and why? For example, why buy a new car if an older model would be better for F/I anyway?

Thanks again for all the input. Keep it coming!

 

what about the VDC you don't like mike?

 

I have '05 35th with rev-up, built motor, head work, but no cams available, 538whp and all if well. Just get what you want and leave it up to the professionals. And I recommend SGP Racing or Sharif.

 

I bet you'd miss VDC yaw control if you blew a tire while boosting at high speeds. One reason I always leave it on while on the highway.

 

psshh.. whatever mr. ****. You know what I meant.

 

Get an 03-05 enthusiast and replace everything. You probably won't be happy with the Track brakes, the factory wheels, and to be honest the stock LSD is kind of a mess. The ATS or Quaiffe will be way better if you want to do any serious tracking. Also, I have an ATS in my car and I siht you not... I barely have "*** out" driving .. the wheels chirp and spin by my god if that dif doesn't try to keep me in a straight line and give me traction.

 

The only real Z is a Track Z. It says so in the bible.

 

Buy a high-mileage, 50k - 75K miles car, cuz you're going to replace the motor anyway. $20k for the car. $15k on the motor and turbo setup. $35k Porsche Eater!

 

i wouldn't get a post 2004 car, can't raise idle w/o reflashing ECU.