Hello from Los Angeles!

state

After several weeks of deliberation, I finally picked up my new 2013 370Z 6MT (base coupe). Like many of you, I seriously considered the FR-S/BRZ, Cayman, and others. In the end, I was made a great deal on the Z. FWIW, my local dealers aren't interested in dealing on the FR-S/BRZ (some even mark them up). For those who have not driven an FR-S, it's a truly fantastic little car. The handling dynamics are incredible, and it illustrates what you can do when you reduce weight in a meaningful way! But, it also made me wonder what a car like that with REAL power might be. They make that too -- it's called a 370Z! The Cayman S is amazing but the value and maintenance outlook scared me off. I only have good things to say about the FR-S and Cayman, but like they say, you vote with your wallet!

I just hit 500 miles (it took me a couple weeks!) and spent yesterday doing a few modifications. My original plan was to buy a Base/Sport, but that combo just wasn't to be had. So, I bought a true base 6MT and decided to build.

I have a full set of Akebono brakes on the way and I'm debating an OS-Giken and Quaife LSD to go with my 4.09 rear-end. I'm pretty sure I'll go with an AEM intake, too.

To address the stock radio, I bought a 3K series Pioneer deck (AVH-P3400BH 2-Din). It handles the Bluetooth, DVD, and XM satellite chores very nicely. It's an easy install and I recommend it.

Power-wise I've done the Motordyne "ART" pipes and spent a few hours at Shawn Church's place getting it tuned. As an aside, I dumped the ECU for them last week -- the folks at UpRev hadn't seen a 2013 yet. It only took them a few days to get it sorted out. My Z puts down 345 WHP and 280 ft./lbs. torque. I'll post about that separately.

So, this is my 3rd Z. I had a 1990 Z32TT, a first year Z33 (that had tranny issues), and I'm enjoying my Z34 so far. I figured the third model year should be relatively free of quirks. This is my 20th car -- I can be fickle! Anyhow, I've had a very wide range of imports and I'm building my third Jeep (a 2012 JKUR). If there are other Jeep guys, I'd like to hear from you. This one is a high-speed desert runner that can still boulder crawl.

I've had lots of Nissan cars and currently own a 2011 Leaf, too (though I'm selling it next week). My Z isn't a daily driver, but I require to be capable of being one (I ride my KLR 650 to work). I'm really looking forward to talking Z stuff with everyone!

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blackcherry20

Welcome and congrats! I just got the same HU-should arrive nxt week! Sounds like you have a. Lot of experience! Enjoy and keep us posted!

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Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White

nmjaxx9

Welcome and congrats!!

Trips

Welcome and Congrats

If you can make it out to Our Monthly meet in Cerritos

You're more than welcomed to joins us, It would be cool to see a 2013 in person


SoCal - Centrally Located Monthly Meet

DLSTR

Nice ride. Im from Westlake Village, living here in Germany. My wife and I are looking now for a blue 13 Sport.

My black one is great but that new blue is very very tempting. Enjoy your new ride(seems you are), and join us here. This is a great support site!!!

state

Sure, that sounds great. Is that on today? If it's still Long Beach Town Center, I know the spot -- and used to see a lot of 350s around! Same deal?

I have a BBQ this afternoon, but could swing by later. If you don't mind PM me to coordinate details. I actually live in Long Beach and know that area pretty well.

state

Thanks, I'm having fun!

Also, I just had my first "poutine experience". I'm guessing that makes you Canadian (somewhere on the eastern side!).

Oddly, Long Beach has a place with Oxtail poutine!

Trips

It's held on the first Sat of the month normally.

We were there yesterday so it won't be till next month for our gathering.
Hopefully you can join us then

blackcherry20

Lol! Not canadian-southern ohian! Canadian travels exposed me to the delicacy known as poutine! Running joke in "what did you do with your Z today (off topic replies)"....join us there for some way off topic conversations!

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Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White

state

OK, I'll look for you then. I have a fair bit of international travel planned over the next couple months but will do my best to hook up with you guys. Until then, I may see some of you cruising around!

state

Got it!

I'll take a peek in there sometime!

state

You'll really enjoy it. I intend to add an all-weather low-lux backup camera, too. That HU really does a ton of things quite well.

I also wanted to note that you can get either an XM or Sirius module for it -- but this Pioneer HU apparently plays better with XM ("friendlier" says the dealer -- guessing better interface stuff?).

While I'm not a DVD guy, I installed a switch to handle the e-brake sensor input and safety nag. If my passenger wants to watch a video, now she can.

blackcherry20

hmm on the XM/Sirius-really poor cell reception on my drive to work-will the satellite reception be similar? Hate to pay for it and then not have it work when i need it-i.e. while commuting.
I didnt get the e-brake sensor stuff...mostly just me in the car...rarely passengers unless its a short trip to town...hope i dont regret it!

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Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White

state

Well it's quite different than cell reception. This is low-power RF that relies on a clear view of the sky. All of the continental US is covered fine. I have literally listened to the same station, unbroken from LA through Death Valley and back! You'll be just fine!

Satellite radio has changed my listening habits -- I'm practically allergic to regular FM now!

blackcherry20

Lol!! Thank you! As the old member i am supposed to help you-not the other way around... sorry to make you work already!

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Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White