What car should I buy?
 

Hi guys,

My name is Victor. I am looking for some informations about 4 different cars I would like to buy. Considering that I'm gonna buy an used car.

My plan is spend $ 25,000.00 on this car.

I have 4 options:

- 2009 Nissan 370z
- 2005 Porsche Boxter S
- 2007 BMW 335i Coupe
- 2008 BMW 135i Coupe

I'd use this car for trackdays and daily. So, what do you guys think about your Zs comparing with the other options?

Only one more question. I am from Brazil, but i just moved to Miami, FL. I am new here and I don't know the prices for the maintenance of those cars.

Could you guys help me with this decision?

Thanks for you attention,

Victor A.

Once out of warranty those German cars you mentioned are way more costly to maintain than the Nissan.

But that aside.. on looks + performance alone I'd go with either the Boxster or 370. But taking into account budget/upkeep as well.. I'd probably get the 370. :tup:

I would go with the Z. Not because this is a Z forum and not because I love my Z but because this is the choice that makes the most sense to me. The other cars on your list are very, very good cars. If you have a family and you don't have a second car then go with either of the BMW's. When you have a family space is important, especially if you don't have a second car. Now if this is not your case, go with the Z. Not only does the Z rival all of the cars on your list but it will cost you a lot less money to maintain. The Z will give you the best bang for your bucks. Good luck bro. Keep us posted with what you decide to choose.

Thanks for the answer.

Z is the newest of all. So thats the point, but a turbo car is the best for performance.

It is easy to get almost 400hp on a 135i or 335i with few ups.

What should I do on a Z to get this power? (Not using turbo kit)

Thanks for your help man.

I am 21 years old. I don't need to worry about the space inside the car.

I know that the maintaince of a Z is cheaper and the condition of this car would be better than the others because of the year.

As I asked the guy before you, what ups would you do (with approximately prices) on a Z to be competitive on the track with those turbos BMW?

Just think of what car will last you and think you can maintain for it to age really good.
Also ask your self how long your going to keep the car so. Really its all your own preference. But all your car choices are great picks.
If you cant get M packages on a 335i/135i its not worth it.

You mention daily; 370z fits the bill
You mention track use; 370z fits the bill

On the concern of Daily driver:
-Long threads on cabin noise can be found on this site. To some it isn't issue but equally to some it is.
-It is a two seater, do you have kids?..frequently find yourself in need of four seats?
-This Z has issues on soft paint.

Provided he handles the oil/brakes/fuel starve

one can handle the brake and oil problems for less than 2k. Fuel starve, however...

Just worth keeping in mind if his budget is only 25k

Thats the point. I have $ 25,000.00 to spend on this car. But in the future I will be able to spend more money on it.

What ups should i do for first to go to the track?

Bare minimum is oil cooler and new pads.

Probably wise to get some air on the brakes.

If you want to run hard/not fill up after every session, you'll need to find a fuel starve solution.

370z fits best as you have stated. 2nd runner up would be 335i coupe.