I'd like replace my 2000 Nissan Altima with a more sportier/fun car.

Here is my story.

I am looking at a 2003 Lexus IS300 vs. a 2003 G35c. Basically, I'd like to keep this car till about 2010. I'd like a car where I can have it paid off when I go back to school (around 2008) and own the car for two more years while I am in school. What would you think would be the more pratical choice as my daily driver?

A fast performance sports car seem soooo good, but I am not if it would the right car to get if a.) I will use it as my daily driver till 2010. b.) I am going to go back to school in a few years.

I am not asking which car is better performing, better style, etc. -- just want asking which would fit my goals.

Thoughts? Advice?

Thank you!

 

Unless you are going to buss people back on forth the G would be a better choice. If you always drive people around the IS300 would be more comfortable because it's a 4 door. Also keep in mind that the body of the IS300 is changing this year. Who wants to drive around the old version? Not me!

 

Wait for the IS350? I don't think anyone here wil recommend the Lexus. Great car but not as great a performer as the G35C. Now the IS350? That's a different story!

 

I am just guessing here, but if he had the money to buy the new IS350 the 2005 G35 would have been one of his choices instead of 2003 G35.

 

IS350 will be a beast. Coming out at the end of the year. But I bet it's gonna be $$$$$... plus markup... plus dealer screw you charges...

 

Gman2004 -- you are right. I forgot to mention the money factor!!
Also, I wouldn't want to buy a brand new g35c or is350 for that matter since I would be pariond taking it to school (stratches, parking, haters, etc.), and plus I don't have a garage to put such a nice car in -- hence why I am thinking used.

Tough choice..just don't know

 

Awesome, I'm currently driving a 2002 IS300 auto, and just ordered a 05 G35c 6MT.
The IS300 is really fun to drive but not enough power if you ask me. (215 hp) Though I am NA and have a few mods (intake, exhaust, y-pipe, heatshield). It's quick, but still slow. The backseat and trunk also not very big. I got the G35c because other cars in it's class doesn't compare given the price. I wanted a sportier car (coupe, 6-speed, rwd). The G35 seats 4, just takes longer to get in an out for the back and the trunk is smaller than the IS. For practicallity and price you should probably go with the IS300. It has the NA Supra engine (2JZ-GE) and it's easy to mod. Reliable as a daily driver since it's Toyota, but a little more expensive to maintain because it is Lexus. Though Nissan is also reliable, I drove a 95 MAxima through high school. I think either choice is equally good depending on what you're going to be happy with for the next 5 years (2dr vs. 4dr) Both have nice interiors, stereos are comparable.

 

izmir41500 -- good to hear from an IS driver.

For you and for everyone...

Since I am not into racing these cars, I am not really concerned about lap times and what not. Basically, I wantto get that "sport/racing" feeling. Given money is a factor, and given I have never been in a real performance car or modded one....do you guys think that slapping on some coilovers, sway bars, and maybe an exhaust would help me achieve that "sporty/performance" feeling? Would that even make a difference?

Thanks!

 

Yes, stiffening your suspension would definitely give you a more sport feel, and an exhaust would definitely make any car louder if not ricey. If you've ever driven a BMW 3 series with sport suspension you know the steering is kinda stiff. The IS is similar but not as stiff. When I drove a G35 its even less so I suggest you go test drive the cars. All fun to drive.

 

So I guess I am answer my own question gradually as the inputs are coming in.


Becuase I am not look for the fastest times, or want to race...buying an IS with a few mods like tighter suspension and exhaust (ONLY FOR THAT growl factor...see I told you im not into modding), i guess it would be probably wise in terms of $$ and pratically......feel free to let me know if I am wrong

thanks again!