Hello from a prospective new owner

[daimon1313]

So I came across the forum today and I have to say I can't believe what an incredible resource this entire site is.

I've spent the past decade in the military and I'm moving onto a new career with a significant pay raise. I've decided that you only live once, why not get a badass car that you can show off, be proud of, mod it a bit and make it your own and just have some awesome fun while driving it (which is most important).

I've decided my price range for a new car was $40k-$50k. I've waffled on exactly what I was looking for, whether it was a sports sedan or a straight up sports car. I've looked at the Audi A6, the BMW 3 and 5 series, the Mercedes, even looked at the Jaguar XF (which is way too much money). Yet none of them really gave me that "wow" factor, especially the BMW's since it seems that everyone has one.

So, for me, it came down to two cars. The 2011 Mustang 5.0 GT and the 2010 Nissan 370Z. I've heavily researched both and while the big ol' engine in the GT is certainly tempting, ultimately I was pulled to the Z. Here's why...

I grew up around Z cars. My first car was a 1978 Datsun 280Z, stock. My dad had a 78 of his own that he rebuilt and modified when I was really young. I used to go to ZCOT meetings all the time in Dallas as a kid and I went to six ZCCA conventions in the 1990's. I've always loved Z cars and it just feels natural that when I've gotten to the point I could afford one, this is the car I should get.

I'm still about six months or so from buying my Z, since I want to save up enough to knock the payments down a bit. It's going to be a very long six months, but I know it's going to be worth it.

Right now I'm leaning towards the NISMO, although I'm praying there's a 40th edition still available (although this won't happen). I'm planning on adding an aftermarket NAV and audio system. I know for a fact I'll be using every page of this forum for help along the way.

Glad to be here.