Coming from a G37S coupe, I find the 370Z an improvement in every way for what I want out of a car. It's tighter, better screwed together, sharper, and provides a more direct, intense feel. Style-wise, it's a much better proportioned car.
When my son was born 20 years ago, I was forced to go on sports car hiatus. The string of coupes, sedans, and SUVs gave me a good appreciation for my Z.
I spent more time researching and test driving cars than I ever have in the past. I'm at that stage in life where I can afford to get what I want, and I spent a lot of time at the BMW (M3) and Porsche (Caymen and 911S) dealerships. I'm also at that stage in life where I'm not interested in paying exhorbitant prices just to maintain a car. This is my daily driver.
I think part of the problem here is that we tend to take every written comment as gospel. Sure Car and Driver had problems on the track with the Z, but the closest mine will ever get to a track is the spectator parking lot.
Cars are probably the most personal purchase we make. They can be an extension of ourselves, or they can be an appliance. Obviously, if you are on this forum, it's the former.
That being said, what works for me doesn't necessarily mean it works for you. Before you get wrapped-up in what the media says, sit back and think about what drew you to purchase a Z, and if that has somehow changed, be it too great expectations, or just disappointment in performance compared to a previous car.
We tend to be nostalgic when it comes to our impressions of past rides. I remember when the 280ZX was introduced. It was roundly trashed by every car magazine at the time, and probably rightly so compared to its 280Z predecessor. Today, it has earned hero status in the minds of many.
There's not going to be a car on the market that you don't find fault with after a month of driving every day. It's easy to put a garage queen on a pedestal, but until you put in the requisite seat time, it's a jaded love affair.
As to your question to why Z sales are so slow, I'd venture to say it's the economy, the total lack of promotion on Nissan's part, and a change in the demographics of the car-buying public. Back in the Dark ages when I was in high school, no one would be caught dead in a four door car unless they were borrowing their mom's car (mine had a Olds 98) for a prom date; hell even my Dad was driving a Cutlass Supreme coupe. Today, kids aspire to Accords and Camrys and Sonatas.
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Waiting on the Z35! SOLD - 2011 Gun Metallic Touring 7AT w Sports Pkg & Nav, Nismo Bumper and Rims, RC Grille, RC Brake Ducts, H&R Spacers, Painted Door Hdls, GTR Start Button, Nav By-Pass, EVO R Fog Light, CF Ducktail, CF Interior Trim
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