Quote:
Originally Posted by speed_BMW330i
I actually rented a new 370z (base) from Enterprise Car Rental for less than $50 bucks (before taxes, gas, etc) from one of their locations in Naperville, IL. Was looking for a cheap ride for the weekend and asked for the cheapest car they had. When I went to check-in they upgraded me to their 370Z for free.
Had a great ride from the burbs to the city. Now I am seriously considering buying a 370z, although concerns with the clutch issue have made me a bit apprehensive.
Pros:
Beautiful Exterior Styling
Small, easy to park in the city
Fast, even with an automatic transmission
Cockpit feels sporty, decent interior quality
Not very common sight as far as affordable sports cars go
Cons:
Very stiff/rough ride.
Flimsy/cheap feeling doors (no confidence inspiring "thunk" when door is shut)
Engine noisy was not very sporty
Loud interior/wheel well noise
Expensive, relative to other options
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Being that you drive a 330i, I can appreciate some of your con points. The ride is stiffer than your car but it has less body roll. I wouldn't call the 370Z's ride rough, but it does have loud interior/wheel well noise, but as b15 pointed out, this can be reduced by putting insulation to the hatch & doors (inexpensive & easy to do). Add Michelin PSS tires and it's much more compliant. I've done these to my Z and it's quieter and smoother than my stock GTI. However if your 330i is stock, it's most likely still quieter than my Z, due to the hatchback of the Z with no trunk like your car, to absorb some of the rear wheel noise.
Engine noise, never thought about this, but it could be that I have an exhaust which make the VQ sound wonderful and maybe overshadows this. However this engine is definitely noisy and rough at 5,500+ rpms unlike the 330i's which is well mannered all the way to redline.
Expensive, relative to other options? Yes, but not by much if you compare it to a FRS/BRZ or Miata. No, and not even close if you compare it to a Z4, Cayman or Cayman S.
Regarding your concern about the csc, try installing the RJM clutch pedal ($250). I have not seen anyone on this forum who had a csc failure with one of those, plus makes the Z easier to drive. I've had mine for 3 1/2 years and it's been fine (knock on wood).