350z, anyone with one? looking for feedback Options

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MOST likely going to pull the trigger on one of these cars: AP2 S2000, 350Z, or G35. Most likely the 350z because I absolutely love the body style and power it delivers. I'd probably consider the G35 Coupe too because it has seating for four (3 kids - although still will have the CRV to haul around) with same performance as the Z.

It's going to be a DD with simple mods with some 19x9.5 and 19x10.5 (maybe wider) wheels slammed on coilovers. Really looking for a semi fun, good handling RWD 2 seater.

Anyone here own, owned, or driven one have any feedback on how it drives, problematic areas, better years, etc. Our local club's website has been shut down and I don't feel like joining another forum. I'd peek (or google ) but I figure I'd ask first to see if anyone out there has first hand experience. I'll probably test drive my good friend's brother's 03 350Z this weekend.

THanks!

[richee3]

You gotta stop buying the same cars as me! First the IS 300, now this... I have an '04 Touring and love it. It has great low end torque and pulls hard to 155 (allegedly- I haven't topped 90 yet.) We test drove several 6 speeds and hated them. The early model trans was notorious for syncro issues and the stock clutch feel is by far the worst of anything I've driven- grain hauling trucks included. The auto trans is much stronger and just as quick to 60.

You'll want to avoid '03's and early 04's as they had terrie alignment issues. Most people claim a simple alignment fixed it but further research shows that the front end cannot be aligned properly- it's a design flaw in the suspension. The '06 model with the manual trans has bad oil consumption issues, and the power window motors are junk in all 350's. However, avoid the models I mentioned and they're great cars.

If you can afford it, try to get an '07 or '08. They have the updated HR engine instead of the DE. I've never been able to drive one but I understand it totally changes the feel of the car, and is quite a bit quicker and more responsive to bolt-on mods, though no 350 gains a whole lot from bolt on's.

I absolutely love my Z. One of the best decisions I ever made. It's bone stock and I'm perfectly happy with it. Unlike our old IS's, this car has loads of power and uses it well. It's all to happy to swing the tail end around and is very controllable. Gas mileage for me is the mid 20's on the highway and insurance is much more affordable than the IS.