ItsAstrix

Hey guys. I am thinking about purchasing my first Nissan. I currently have a 2007 Cobalt SS with less than 50k miles, which I will be selling before making this purchase. I'll also be adding about 3-5k of my own cash for this as well. I'm a younger guy who's looking to have some fun with a car and mod it. (Only tasteful mods). This will be my first project car as well. Anything I should look out for with a $9000 - $13000 budget? Anything in specific I should check? The Z I am looking for will be a manual.

travlee

iTrader: (8)

07-08 with the hr motor

ItsAstrix

Hr being bad or good in this case?

travlee

iTrader: (8)

good, little more hp bump.. also better bumper and hood

ItsAstrix

Alright, thanks man.

dkmura

iTrader: (64)

While I drive a DE-powered Z on the street and race an HR-powered Z33 on the track, it's only fair to point out the HR comes with CSC (concentric slave cylinder) issues the OP should research first. The HP bump between the DE and HR is not huge in my book, and the "better bumper and hood" is really a matter of personal preference.

I'd suggest looking for a nicely cared for Z with some tasteful mods and clean service history, no matter the year. Of course, mileage matters, but an owner who knows about his/her Z and wants to sell to a good home counts for more than a highly modded car with a questionable history.

ItsAstrix

So you suggest a lightly modded car with maybe a new exhaust, and air intake for example? I planned on getting this rear-bumper https://www.ebay.com/p/?iid=18229614...pp=true&chn=ps if I find a cheaper car. I'd prefer a white car, but if I can't get white I'll just wrap it depending on the price. Another question is how much would a wrap be for a 350?

travlee

iTrader: (8)

check the classifieds here

https://my350z.com/forum/zs-and-gs-f...ded-socal.html

https://my350z.com/forum/zs-and-gs-f...charlotte.html

ItsAstrix

Ok, so something like those. I can't travel far, literally 1-2 hours is my max. I'm located in Kansas City.

dkmura

iTrader: (64)

Since we're all in different locations, nobody can give you an accurate estimate of what KC pricing would be. Better for you to research a few local wrap shops and make a few calls.

As for mods, it could be as simple as a set of high-quality shocks and sway bars. Or maybe an upgraded sound system. I wouldn't get too excited about intake/exhaust as there's a negligible performance gain with either. As for that bumper, keep in mind it's duraflex and won't hold up as well as the OEM urethane construction.

Extreme Dimensions

iTrader: (7)

Thank's moderator, OUCH!

BrookZee

Recently purchased a 350z so i did a lot of research as to what to look out for when purchasing. The 2006 revup is known for oil consumption. the hr does have more hp but you will be happy without. early models 03-04 had weaker transmissions that tend to have grinding issues look out for that (I got a 2003 with 80k miles and have no trans issues). I suggest searching what the different trims are. for example base does not have cruise control or lsd (not sure if thats all years) some trims get brembo brakes lightweight wheels leather seats vdc etc. you could search the list of TSBs for common issues if your looking for things to negotiate price on. Find a car thats well maintained and you will be happy with it. Goodluck with your search! Pm me if you have any questions.

ItsAstrix

I think I might get a 5th gen Camaro 1SS. Opinion? Keep in mind I am 16 and I will get the car in August. I turn 17 in July. Insurance cost doesn't matter for me at all.

travlee

iTrader: (8)

no offense but given your age, i bet you would wreck it sooner than later.... i would never give my 16 year old a sports car for their very first car.

ItsAstrix

This isn't my first car.
My car list is as shown
2005 Chevy Equinox
(Had a minor crash, reported to the insurance)
2007 Cobalt SS
(Has been in the family since built in Ohio, bought it on Indiana, was stored in a garage all it's life. Was my grandmas car, inherited it when she passed. Is in extremely good condition)

I am also looking for a fun and fast toy before I head off to the Navy when I turn 18.

travlee

iTrader: (8)

just drive pos until you are stationed somewhere, and i rest my case about wrecking the car

ItsAstrix

When I wrecked the first time I was devastated. Was very minor, I walked away with a chipped headlight and that was it.

dikspiel

iTrader: (70)

DE is faster