Just like I said in the title, I don't own a Z yet. But I do plan on getting on in a few months. I am moving out of my apartment complex and will be able to get a nicer car. So I am looking at a '04 Z base. I am just wondering what kind of things I should look out for with that model? I know some years had tranny issues, and tire feathering problems. Are those two issues present in the 04's, and are there other things I should ask the dealer about prior to purchase for this year? Thanks guys!

 

Don't buy a Z. 2many out there. Buy a Honda be different. Seriously

 

heh, hate Honda's. Why? Because EVERYBODY AND THEIR MOTHER HAS ONE! Besides, I have only seen like 2 Z's by me... There aren't too many.

 

In NY, I'd think you would want LSD & TCS because of winter weather. That means going to the Enthusiast, the next level above Base.

 

yeah Im not really too concerned with that... Its all in how you drive a car, and I am quite used to driving rwd cars in snow. Weight, snow tires, slow starts, no driving when snow is in the forecast... lol


I am looking more for bugs, and issues that should be ironed out before I sign that paper work...

 

i thought the tourning was next up from base and it has LSD & TCS?

 

Well if thats the case, I have found a touring with low mileage, and in my price range around me... So if it is still there when time comes to make that purchase, I will check that one out!

that touring is an 05

 

Welcome Jesterking.

 

I've been driving rear-wheel cars all my life too and I live in the North. Compared with the others through the years, the base Z in slippery conditions is like a horse that doesn't want to leave the gate. Do what the Brickyard Rat said and at least go with the Enthusiast model unless you park it much of the winter.

The Touring model is a step up from the Enthusiast and also has VDC, also very helpful in the snow and ice. (There used to be a Performance model in between). Lot's have had trouble free '03s but it would be a safer bet to go with an '04.5 or an '05. Some bugs were worked out by then.

Have fun.

 

Down side: possible feathering problem; poss. driver's side power w. glitch;
hatch door strut(s) issue; poss. gas latch release problem. THE GOOD NEWS:
Best engine in the industry, 11 yrs. strait! No cooling system problems; IN-
CREDIBLE torque band (from the low end up!!!); no electrical issues. LOOKS!!!
THRILLS!!! Jump in, Zeds are the living end of Sports cars!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Thanks guys! I guess I will look for an enthusiast or touring in a few months. I am looking to purchase round July/Aug

I'll try to stay active here until then

 

Through at least 05, here are the Z models in order of price/features:
-Base
-Enthusiast
-Performance
-Touring
-Track

All above Base have at least LSD & TCS.

Here is link to identifying how to tell differences.

https://my350z.com/forum/buying-leasing/269606-easy-way-to-tell-differences-in-350z-models.html

 

Thanks!

there are so many bases around, getting something at a good price will require me to do some traveling... but oh well! I will get one. One way or another!