More arm twisting--different direction this time

[SeismicGuy]

I am still planning to look at both the G37 and the BMW 335i (see my other posts) but the 335i is losing ground due to hefty price coupled with iffy reliability. But I like to have more than one car to consider so it recently dawned on me that I have always liked the look of the 350z convertible and just realized that this is in the same ballpark (pricewise) as the G37. In fact, it may be easier to get a deal on one of those versus the G.

Any thoughts or opinions on comparing the 350z convertible with the G37?

Thanks,

Doug

[muscarel]

I would say that although a different kind of car, the 350Z convertible is a nice option, epsecially if this is not your daily driver. I sat in one the other day, and you do sit alot lower than you would in the G or 335. The interior is nicely designed but material quality is a step down.

If 2-seats is an option for you, you should also consider the BMW Z4 3.0si. I started a thread in the "other cars" forum about the ridiculous residuals and money factors they have right now (24 month lease - 73%/0.001 money factor). At 10k miles per year, you can get a nicely loaded one (nav, etc) for under $500/month ($470 is possible) with tax, title up front. And that's for a 24 month lease, which are typically expensive. 255 horsepower, but only weighs 3100 lbs - I think road tests have it at low 5's 0-60 and high 13's 1/4 mile. Handling is supposedely great.

One last suggestion - a used Boxster S. 2005 and up have the improved interior (the 2004s and down interiors are very cheap), and you can get one for mid/high-30's if you shop around. It's another class of car, but not far off money-wise from what you are looking at.

[SeismicGuy]

Whatever car I get would be a replacement for my 95 Vette which is my daily driver. Granted my driving is mostly 6 miles to work and 6 back plus leisure driving. So, compared with the Vette, I expect the 350z convertible would be like a luxury cruiser. I assume quality and reliability should be similar for the G37 and the 350z and my last Nissan (90 Maxima) gave us 10 years of essentially trouble-free driving.

Doug

[muscarel]

Originally Posted by SeismicGuy

Whatever car I get would be a replacement for my 95 Vette which is my daily driver. Granted my driving is mostly 6 miles to work and 6 back plus leisure driving. So, compared with the Vette, I expect the 350z convertible would be like a luxury cruiser. I assume quality and reliability should be similar for the G37 and the 350z and my last Nissan (90 Maxima) gave us 10 years of essentially trouble-free driving.

Doug

In that case, you should definitely consider it. I'd check wind/road noise at highway speeds with the top up, just to get a feel if it would be bothersome. Otherwise, good options.
I'm sure they will all be relatively reliable. I've never had issues with Nissan products.