[hinakuras]

Hey
I am just starting to get into the car scene and am doing some autocross events and whatnot over the summer. Think is my only car is a small SUV and I am saving up for a starter sports car, but I still have a long way to go. I see a lot of people recommend Miatas, older 911s and stuff. What do you guys think about the Nissan 350Z? They get good reviews and seem like cool cars.
Thoughts?

 

[Dave Datsun Tech.]

I have a friend that does serious Autocross with a 350Z and loves it.

 

[pilgrim]

Depends on what you want. The Miatas are probably the most bang for the buck in autocross, and they almost never break. However, there is often a great deal of competition in that class because Miatas are affordable.

The Miatas are an example of the old sports car saying "It's more fun to drive fast in a slow car than slow in a fast car." When you drive a sports car with a smaller engine, you're more worried about precision and technique than horsepower.

If there are lots of zeroes on your bank account, you might consider a 911, but be advised that there is nothing on a Porsche that isn't very expensive. Great cars, fun to run if you have the personal budget of a third world country.

I've never owned a later Z-car, but my guess is that the 350-370Z cars should be a pretty good compromise. If I make the assumption you plan to work on them yourself, you'll have a learning curve.

 

[767driver]

I had a 350Z brand new in 2004. Great car....highly recommended. I currently own an aircooled 911...they are awesome but expensive. The Miata would also be a great car.

 

[garvin231]

Nissan 350Z is a good idea for the first car, I had it myself, but it was my 2nd car, but I recommend you for 1 Nissan car, it may also be different, it does not have to be this one for me, it is very comfortable and you can see a lot

 

[pilgrim]

What it boils down to is: DRIVE one. You'll know.

Sports cars are never bought with logic. They're bought because you love the way they drive.