New guy, moving from an S4 to 370z?

Z_ealot · 08-03-2011, 01:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_sk

So, I went over to Advantage/Westbury Nissan tonight to take a look at a black sport, do a test drive and talk #s.

Overall, very cool guys over there.

So, 1st impressions on the test drive.......not as fast/quick as I thought it would be. It felt slower in 2/3 than my S4 and didn't seem to have the punch my STI does off the line...that could have been me just not *really* pushing the car and the fact I've been driving an AT the last 10 months and my clutch skills are subpar...the car rev'd high, but I didn't feel any real "power" behind it...just my initial thoughts...

Second, its damn small inside. Like, no room for skis, paintball equipment, or even my dog. That's a serious bummer for me.I thought it at least had a trunk.

Otherwise, loved the car, the styling and feel on the road. Price was good and they offered me an actually decent trade on my S4 (still pending formal appraisal).

So, my questions to you guys:

1) How do you combat the storage issue? What do you guys do in the winter? I don't want to have two cars, but ****, this thing has no room.

2) Speed. I see figures for a ~4.7 0-60, where my S4 is considerably slower at ~5.6 .. and 04 STI is stated 4.5, (I was stage 2) and that's quoted around 4.1 but I can't recall.

With both the STI and the S4 I "felt" the acceleration/torque so much more. Is it just me that thinks the Z feels a little slow compared to the vehicles I mentioned.

3) I've never owned a rear wheel drive car, how can I expect the winter to be driving in it? My last two cars (S4, STi) are AWD.

Well, I'm not trying to sound like a downer, I did enjoy driving the car, it just raised some additional questions.

Thanks again for all the feedback so far ... and I'll see you guys tomorrow night.

can't really answer any of the other questions, but as to your question about "feeling" the acceleration, well thats mostly because the Z "builds" up power through the RPM's is the best way i can put it whereas cars like the S4 and STI deliver the torque at lower RPM's and then taper off at the higher RPM's where the Z will still keep pulling due to the mostly flat torque curve on the Z.

mr_sk · 08-03-2011, 09:09 AM

@Z_ealot: Word, makes sense ... and I wasn't really driving the car that hard so I didn't experience the continued high rpm acceleration.

I'm doing research now into trunk space and snow driving. It seems the trunk is not as small as it seemed at the dealer - people have been able to fit a decent amount of stuff in it.

I'm seeing threads about not really using the Z for snow driving ... without a proper setup: Anybody planning on driving your Z in winter?

Not sure if this is the best car for me.... = [
I would really like more space and winter capabilities.

AlphaSnacks · 08-03-2011, 09:12 AM

I would imagine most people looking at a 370Z should know it's RWD with very little storage space.

mr_sk · 08-03-2011, 09:29 AM

@Arnold K: hah, yeah yeah. I've just never seen one in person. My criteria for a new car is fast, tunable, local support (mechanic/dealer), warranty.

My considerations are: STi (dont like the new body style), EVO (no local mitsu dealers, plus not sure about mitso as company), A4 (Stasis is expensive for my closest Audi dealer to retain warranty, don't really like A* models, can't afford new S* models), R32 VW (still a possible consideration), which brought me to the Z, because it had all the items I cared about.

I hadn't really thought much about winter and size until I saw the Z yesterday and I had both thoughts. My girl is saying I'm having a midlife crisis buying a sports car ... hah.

Arnold, you going to the meet-up tonight? I'm trying to get outta work on-time so I can shoot over around 8/8:30.

ANMVQ · 08-03-2011, 09:54 AM

I guess I'll just touch on the mods side, As far as CEB, and Cold air intake and tune will net you right around 300WHP( See sig), Cost for me was pretty low, The CBE would cost $1000( Mine was way less test fit car), Cold air intake was $375 and tune was $500 so what $1875 so for under 2k you will change the way the car drives and have tons of fun

.. Warranty issues will only come up if you have a tune and a ECU issue, But the UPREV you can switch back to a "Stock" Map if you are going to the dealer for that type of issue. Overall these engines are pretty well made and should have no issue, Yes there are a few but nothing to worry about.

As far as what model get a in between, My car is loaded NO NAV, Honest do not need it ( Smart phones FTW) But have leather and heated seats and Roof( I have a G37). But get the Z and be happy. If worried about the winter get my car G37X Coupe.

FL 4Motion · 08-03-2011, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_sk

@Z_ealot: Word, makes sense ... and I wasn't really driving the car that hard so I didn't experience the continued high rpm acceleration.

I'm doing research now into trunk space and snow driving. It seems the trunk is not as small as it seemed at the dealer - people have been able to fit a decent amount of stuff in it.

I'm seeing threads about not really using the Z for snow driving ... without a proper setup: Anybody planning on driving your Z in winter?

Not sure if this is the best car for me.... = [
I would really like more space and winter capabilities.

Def the Z is small on the inside (5' 10", 290lbs here but i fit), but the hatch can hold a decent amount of stuff. As far as winter driving, can't comment first hand, but there are some crazy canuks out there that slap winter tires on them and drive the Z year round. Personally, I like having the Z and our other car, nissan Xterra, give the best of both worlds. If you are really into doing outdoorsy stuff, mountain biking, surfing, snow boarding etc, then honestly, the Z as a sole car doesn't make the most sense. Still hope you pick one up tho, there a great car. Maybe you could get a fwd beater to go with it at some point so your hauling/snow issue would be resolved.

The new Golf R (r32 replacement) comes out soon, it's awd and 260hp turbo, not a sports car, but sporty and practical and around 30-35K. I hate to even bring up another car, but I just don't want to see another thread where someone is selling their Z 1-3 months after purchase cause it's bad in the winter or is only a 2 seater...

MuSh · 08-03-2011, 10:41 PM

Tires are more important than your drivetrain in winter driving. Get some dedicated winter tires and you'll be fine. You will have to worry more about clearance in the deep stuff more than you will traction.

mr_sk · 08-04-2011, 09:00 AM

@ ANMVQ: Word man. Sounds pretty good price/power wise. I've seen the uprev mentioned, not sure what it is, will have to do some searching. Model wise, I'm going for sport if/when I pull the trigger. Thanks man.

@FL 4Motion: Yeah, I don't do a ton of winter driving, and I'm sure with good tires and 100lbs of sand in the hatch, I'll be OK. The Z isn't my daily driver, NYC public transit is, heh. Golf R would be cool, but I really dig the styling and community behind the Z. Not to mention I've found both a cool dealer (Advantage) and tuner (Vinnys) ... though I've not bought the car OR had work done, just spoke to them.

Quote:

I hate to even bring up another car, but I just don't want to see another thread where someone is selling their Z 1-3 months after purchase cause it's bad in the winter or is only a 2 seater...

Of course. I do appreciate the feedback. Just trying to make the decision, thinking about the times we're I've had > 2 people in my car, or lots of gear. Trying to decide if a few minor sacrifices on size and such will bother me in the long run.

@ MuSH:

Quote:

Tires are more important than your drivetrain in winter driving. Get some dedicated winter tires and you'll be fine. You will have to worry more about clearance in the deep stuff more than you will traction.

. Coo- you probably right. I'll have to do some research and see what the best results people have been getting in the Z for snow tires.

ANMVQ · 08-04-2011, 09:06 AM

@ ANMVQ: Word man. Sounds pretty good price/power wise. I've seen the uprev mentioned, not sure what it is, will have to do some searching. Model wise, I'm going for sport if/when I pull the trigger. Thanks man.

No problem man, Just read you test drive post also,, Remember you are now driving a NA car, Feels completely different the power is more linear and not a kick in the face, LOL, ( Coming from a 11 sec EVO) .. .. The power delivery is different. All tho you will feel a small kick above 3k VVEL kicks,, when you get the UPREV tune this is more noticeable by a lot.. Seriously if you are worried about room for ski's and paint ball stuff, look at the G coupe, The back seat folds down and I get both my golf bags and other misc stuff in there no sweat..

Uprev is FTW.

mr_sk · 08-04-2011, 09:28 AM

Quote:

No problem man, Just read you test drive post also,, Remember you are now driving a NA car, Feels completely different the power is more linear and not a kick in the face, LOL, ( Coming from a 11 sec EVO) .. .. The power delivery is different. All tho you will feel a small kick above 35k VVEL kicks,, when you get the UPREV tune this is more noticeable by a lot.. Seriously if you are worried about room for ski's and paint ball stuff, look at the G coupe, The back seat folds down and I get both my golf bags and other misc stuff in there no sweat..

Uprev is FTW.

heh, yeah you are right. It doesn't have that "kick". Ok, looking at the infiniti's now. Never really considered them - they are very popular here in NY though.

I also found this: Boofsquire Roof Racks Pretty f'n cool for carrying skis.

ANMVQ · 08-04-2011, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_sk

heh, yeah you are right. It doesn't have that "kick". Ok, looking at the infiniti's now. Never really considered them - they are very popular here in NY though.

I also found this: Boofsquire Roof Racks Pretty f'n cool for carrying skis.

OPSS meant 3k, AHHA Still early.. 35k would be BOOM

I cross shopped both the Z and G and went G only for room. I coach hockey and play golf with the Wife, Would be hard putting my hockey bag pucks,Stick, and water bottles in the Z :/..An then the we have the golf bags..

We could always take the wife's G37 Sedan but WHY DO THAT

..

mr_sk · 08-04-2011, 09:48 AM

Quote:

OPSS meant 3k, AHHA Still early.. 35k would be BOOM

Ha yeah I figured just missing a decimal point...

Word. I'm thinking that roof-rack is the stuff of dreams if I go the Z route. I'd like to see a G in person ...

mr_sk · 08-04-2011, 02:52 PM

So, I've been chatting and thinking ... considering doing a lease.
I don't plan on modding till after winter anyways (gives me time to research and save for the specific mods). It also gives me a bunch of months w/the car stock to learn what I want to improve.

I'm thinking a lease might be a good option. If I hate the car, due to space and too much attention, punk kids, etc, (heh) I can possibly bail on the lease early.

If I continue to love the car, I'll just exit the lease early to buy it. Either way I get additional flexibility and peace of mind...

Thoughts?

AlphaSnacks · 08-04-2011, 03:54 PM

370Zs lease awful. You'll be paying too much.

mr_sk · 08-04-2011, 03:57 PM

Ah, didn't know that. Shame..I'm awaiting back details from the dealer....I'm guessing its at least 15% more?

08-03-2011, 09:54 AM	#35 (permalink)
ANMVQ A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Framingham MA Posts: 2,732 Drives: 2014 Q50 AWD Rep Power: 19	I guess I'll just touch on the mods side, As far as CEB, and Cold air intake and tune will net you right around 300WHP( See sig), Cost for me was pretty low, The CBE would cost $1000( Mine was way less test fit car), Cold air intake was $375 and tune was $500 so what $1875 so for under 2k you will change the way the car drives and have tons of fun .. Warranty issues will only come up if you have a tune and a ECU issue, But the UPREV you can switch back to a "Stock" Map if you are going to the dealer for that type of issue. Overall these engines are pretty well made and should have no issue, Yes there are a few but nothing to worry about. As far as what model get a in between, My car is loaded NO NAV, Honest do not need it ( Smart phones FTW) But have leather and heated seats and Roof( I have a G37). But get the Z and be happy. If worried about the winter get my car G37X Coupe. __________________ 14 Q50 AWD, ARK, ECUTEK (SEB), Takda,

08-04-2011, 09:06 AM	#39 (permalink)
ANMVQ A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Framingham MA Posts: 2,732 Drives: 2014 Q50 AWD Rep Power: 19	@ ANMVQ: Word man. Sounds pretty good price/power wise. I've seen the uprev mentioned, not sure what it is, will have to do some searching. Model wise, I'm going for sport if/when I pull the trigger. Thanks man. No problem man, Just read you test drive post also,, Remember you are now driving a NA car, Feels completely different the power is more linear and not a kick in the face, LOL, ( Coming from a 11 sec EVO) .. .. The power delivery is different. All tho you will feel a small kick above 3k VVEL kicks,, when you get the UPREV tune this is more noticeable by a lot.. Seriously if you are worried about room for ski's and paint ball stuff, look at the G coupe, The back seat folds down and I get both my golf bags and other misc stuff in there no sweat.. Uprev is FTW. __________________ 14 Q50 AWD, ARK, ECUTEK (SEB), Takda, Last edited by ANMVQ; 08-04-2011 at 09:32 AM.

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08-03-2011, 09:09 AM	#32 (permalink)
mr_sk Enthusiast Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Brooklyn Posts: 393 Drives: 2011 Z Sport MT Rep Power: 14	@Z_ealot: Word, makes sense ... and I wasn't really driving the car that hard so I didn't experience the continued high rpm acceleration. I'm doing research now into trunk space and snow driving. It seems the trunk is not as small as it seemed at the dealer - people have been able to fit a decent amount of stuff in it. I'm seeing threads about not really using the Z for snow driving ... without a proper setup: Anybody planning on driving your Z in winter? Not sure if this is the best car for me.... = [ I would really like more space and winter capabilities.

08-03-2011, 09:12 AM	#33 (permalink)
AlphaSnacks A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Windermere, FL Posts: 1,618 Drives: '13 XKR-S, '10 370Z Rep Power: 18	I would imagine most people looking at a 370Z should know it's RWD with very little storage space.

08-03-2011, 09:29 AM	#34 (permalink)
mr_sk Enthusiast Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Brooklyn Posts: 393 Drives: 2011 Z Sport MT Rep Power: 14	@Arnold K: hah, yeah yeah. I've just never seen one in person. My criteria for a new car is fast, tunable, local support (mechanic/dealer), warranty. My considerations are: STi (dont like the new body style), EVO (no local mitsu dealers, plus not sure about mitso as company), A4 (Stasis is expensive for my closest Audi dealer to retain warranty, don't really like A* models, can't afford new S* models), R32 VW (still a possible consideration), which brought me to the Z, because it had all the items I cared about. I hadn't really thought much about winter and size until I saw the Z yesterday and I had both thoughts. My girl is saying I'm having a midlife crisis buying a sports car ... hah. Arnold, you going to the meet-up tonight? I'm trying to get outta work on-time so I can shoot over around 8/8:30.

08-03-2011, 10:41 PM	#37 (permalink)
MuSh Base Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Kentucky Posts: 5 Drives: my feet Rep Power: 14	Tires are more important than your drivetrain in winter driving. Get some dedicated winter tires and you'll be fine. You will have to worry more about clearance in the deep stuff more than you will traction.

08-04-2011, 02:52 PM	#43 (permalink)
mr_sk Enthusiast Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Brooklyn Posts: 393 Drives: 2011 Z Sport MT Rep Power: 14	So, I've been chatting and thinking ... considering doing a lease. I don't plan on modding till after winter anyways (gives me time to research and save for the specific mods). It also gives me a bunch of months w/the car stock to learn what I want to improve. I'm thinking a lease might be a good option. If I hate the car, due to space and too much attention, punk kids, etc, (heh) I can possibly bail on the lease early. If I continue to love the car, I'll just exit the lease early to buy it. Either way I get additional flexibility and peace of mind... Thoughts?

08-04-2011, 03:54 PM	#44 (permalink)
AlphaSnacks A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Windermere, FL Posts: 1,618 Drives: '13 XKR-S, '10 370Z Rep Power: 18	370Zs lease awful. You'll be paying too much.

08-04-2011, 03:57 PM	#45 (permalink)
mr_sk Enthusiast Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Brooklyn Posts: 393 Drives: 2011 Z Sport MT Rep Power: 14	Ah, didn't know that. Shame..I'm awaiting back details from the dealer....I'm guessing its at least 15% more?