I am coming off a 3.2TL lease and wanting something fun, not necessarily new. Considered an M3, CLK 430 and am now looking at the G35 coupes. I have always gone new in the past and kept the car for 4 years but am thinking maybe jumping around to try out a variety of cars thus the consideration for getting used and avoiding the initial depreciation hit.

I have done a search but would like opinions. Is the 05 6MT that much better than a 03 or 04? Any years to stay away from on a used model? Anything special to consider to maintain that resale value such as going with a manual over auto, coupe over sedan...? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Dude,

look on this forum, everyone loves the car! No matter what you get you will love it as well. Either way, you can't be wrong.

 

yes! the interior upgrades are awesome, brembo loss sucks but i would get an 05... thats cuz i already am. but if you can find a 04 or 03 in real good condition and price, id go for it. it all depends on what kind of deal you get. and if you get an 04 or 03, you dont get the biggest depreciation hit. get what ever, make sure you get one as maz said

coupe would have a better resale value
manuals are more rare and more fun, but alot of people prefer auto, so might be easier for resale
since the 05's are out now, go look at em yourself and see the differences your self

 

04 because of the Brembos and Pilot Sport tires! Unless you really like the new 19" wheels, and interior changes, and slight HP bump.

 

i bought an 03 loaded 6MT at the end of august and haven't looked back - i absolutely love it. had 16003 miles at the time. what sold me was the cheaper payments vs new - $200/mo cheaper. if you can find a used coupe with low miles and clean carfax, then i say go for it - it'll still be under warranty after all and you'll save $$$$.

 

If new does not matter (used all the way.................)

 

the only problem (for me) is that not many 6mt are for sale used, then even less in the color that i'd like.

 

I think it's important to understand that most 6MT drivers, are enthusiastic drivers to say that they probably drive their cars hard. Take that into consideration when purchasing. It's similar to purchasing a used Porsche. How many owners are easy on their Porsches. Just something to think about. An Auto G is another story.. Alot of old timers out there (including myself) baby their cars. Good luck in any decision you make.