Base Z + Upgrades vs Sport Package? Advice needed

mook

Value wise, would you recommend buying a base Z and upgrading the suspension or going for the sport package?
This is not for track use, just street entertainment. Usually, I am an off the shelf car buyer but my last car was upgraded by the previous owner and I loved it. I like to drift and also prefer less body roll, crisp turn in and don't mind a moderately harsh ride.
Definitely need an LSD.
Don't want the syncro rev thing.
I am not mechanically adept so would have a shop install everything. Never done this to a car, so this makes me nervous.

I suppose, the options are 1) base Z + nismo parts (haven't seen those in the catalog, yet) 2) base Z + aftermarket 3) sport package

Would someone be kind enough to recommend components and give general thoughts. Component, installation prices and all type of advice is highly appreciated.

On a side note, I am thinking that smaller diameter base wheels give better accelleration (provided you can hookup the same) + less weight + easier to slide around? Comments?

boredfast

i'd personally go for the sport package.

Option 1. Base with Nismo parts would probably be the most expensive, haven't seen the parts but an exhaust will run close to 2000, would not want to now how much the other parts would be.

Option 2 would not that be that bad either. However, needless to say, the sports package would be better than just a base.

It's not a bad deal if you consider the package. an aftermarket lsd will cost roughly $1000-1500 with labor, than you'd want a BBK another 1500-3000 depending what direction you go with, and maybe some coilovers? of course this os based on personal preferences.

With that being said, the package is ideal for a good start. later down the road i'm sure you can do more with the car: Wheels, suspension etc.

but me personally, i'm getting a sport package in september.

FricFrac

Unless you are building a purpose built race car I would get the sports package. Basically the wheels and tires are the cost of the sports package themselves. Everything else is a performance upgrade and if you aren't tracking the car... the suspension bits you'll have to do regardless if you do track it. I'll be going after market rather than NISMO - better bang for your buck.

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molamann

Sports package, it's a hell of a deal for what you pay for.

Mike

sports package and base have the same suspension.

you want an LSD which the sport has, plus the nicer brakes, so its well worth the extra, and if you aren't in to aftermarket wheels, the 19s are better than 18s.

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OMGWTFBBQ

There isn't really a reason not to get the sports package.

19" Rays Engineering wheels?
14" Akebono BBK (that's practically the same size as most aftermarket BBK's for the 350z)
LSD

That's a pretty good value for $3000 ($2600 invoice).

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