Originally Posted by UNKNOWN_370

Placing a value on what's worth it between both these cars is subjectivity on its most extreme value. You are saying that powdercoating the car and adding tidbits will make it equal to the 2013 but remember. Once you start adding your own to a car. It begins losing value. Like powdercoating original wheels is a quick way to lose an extra $3grand in value. So what you saved in money by DIYing this stuff. You also lost money in its original value.

In the end...

Does the nismo look better to you in its 2013 Nismo guise?
Do you want to effect your cars value by powdercoating and painting OEM parts?
Is better brake safety and pedal feel negligible when considering its factory OG?


My advice would be... configure the Nismo of your dreams. If it turns out to be a 2013? Make an offer on it that you think is fair, considering . Then compare your accepted offer to a potential deal on the 12.

My guess is the 12 will be $40k with 0% vs around 41k with 3.9% from a bank on a 13. You. save about $1000 over the set years of financing + 1600 cash sticking with the 12.
Throw in powdercoating your12 nismo. You lose $3000 altering the cars OEM appearance. So after saving 2k; now you're down a 1k in value from altering the car. Now factor in your car is a year older off the bat, so you can strike off another $1500 in natural depreciation. So with your investment

2012
$40k x 0% + ($3000+$1500 dep val from being older model) (-$3000 in dep val powdercoating.)

You're instant 12 Nismo value =$32,500 after first mods to look like a 13.

2013
$41k x3.9% (-3000 instant dep) (+$1600 in interest)
Your 2013 NISMO value is $35000 plus a stronger appreciation over time for not disturbing the OEM look..

The only way to really save money is to buy the 12 and leave it stock. And just the fact your buying a 12 in a 13 model year cycle makes your 12 instantly worth less in resale. So either way you cut it... your gonna spend the cash.

Buy what you like.