Hey, everyone. Been around for a while and thought it was time to introduce myself. I traded in my '97 Grand Prix in mid-February for an '03 Z Touring Edition. "Christine" the Grand Prix needed new sway bar, struts, alternator, tires, climate control system, and some other repairs as well. Had over 165K miles on her, and during the two years I had the car I had to replace two wheel bearings, the fuel pump, and a few minor things. Once I learned about all the other repairs the car needed, I decided it was time for a new car.
I had been eyeing the 350Z since 2003 when it first came out, and finally this last winter a few of the '03s slipped within my price range. I drove up to a tiny town in Nebraska to get it, and I think when I got there the alternator on the Grand Prix literally died. It was definitely time to put on the poker face when it came to price negotiations.
All in all I'd say things went well with my purchase. Got a great deal on price. The new car is an '03 Touring Edition in black, with only 18K miles on it! My only complaint is that since the warranty is expired, I can't take it in for any of the TSBs that are out there. I have the rattling rearview mirror, streaks on the windows, occasional "clicking" on the rear axle, and tire feathering. Not to mention I had to drop $500.00 on a new window motor for the driver's side.
Oh, and one final thing to mention... the Z is my first stickshift. I knew the concept of driving a stick before buying it, but didn't really have any experience. The hard part was learning on such a stiff clutch. I had no problems driving my friend's Cavalier, but the Z gave me fits. That and the heavy flywheel--I couldn't figure out why my revs were always too high when I clutched out on upshifts. It's good to know it really is the car--I don't just suck at driving a stick!
Anyway, my apologies for the long-winded introduction, but just wanted to let everyone know I've already learned a lot from this forum and I'm sure you guys will see me asking typical noob questions [after searching of course]. Drop me a line sometime guys--would be good to hear from you.

Last but not least, attached are a couple pics of my new baby!

 

What's up. I got my mom and my brother living in Olathe. I'll tell my brother to look out for your Z.

 

You've figured more out about you z in a few weeks than most people do in months of experience. I've been driving sticks for decades and still couldn't tell you anything about fly wheel weight. Did the tire feathering thing happen in the weeks since you got it, or were the tires that way when you bought? Congratulations. One of the most fun cars to drive on the planet. It's all worth it.

 

grats on the Z another KC area Z!

first stick shift eh? have fun on 435/I-70 during rush hour lol i know i do since i live over in independence and work in KS frequently

I love mine its a blast to drive, cept for the rain over the past few days makes for crappy Z crusin' conditions

 

Belated welcome, and congratZ.