370Z or MX5 ND Which to Buy?

FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 16:52
Last edited 04/03/2021 - 11:06

Looking to buy a fun 2 seat car as the last chance before kids/ I start balding.

I have been granted 25k by the powers that be to find said car and I am really torn between the 370Z and the ND.

I've owned a NA MX5 many years ago and loved it to bits - I've wanted an ND since they came out in 2015 but was waiting until the price dropped.

I had a brand new one lined up in 2017 (2.0 GT) for $29,000 but decided to wait - now, 4 years later, still the same price…

The 370Z appeals to me in much the same way. Manual, RWD and fun to drive. I feel more comfortable in the 370Z but it's not as fun. I am also struggling to find a clean one that hasn't been modified by some 17 year old or the doof doof gang from bankstown.

Which would you suggest out of these two?

EDIT: Fun car only, already have an i30N (wife) and Subaru Outback for the daily duties.

Outcome: Appreciate everyones input. I've decided to go with the MX5 ND but I will wait until the prices come down to the 22 - 23k mark and avoid covid tax. This is OzBargain after all.

Poll Options expired

  • 144
    MX5 ND 2.0 GT
  • 39
    Nissan 370Z
Automotive Car Mazda Nissan

Comments

  • bhubb18 on 02/03/2021 - 17:06
    +4

    Depends what you want.
    A 370z is a better platform if you want to go higher power, and has LOTS of aftermarket. Interior is a bit meh, but they drive nice.
    MX5 I have no experience with but they do seem cool, more fun to go for a blast in.

    If it was me, I'd go 370. Both are good choices though.

  • brendanm on 02/03/2021 - 17:10

    Nc with renesis swap

    • Nugs on 02/03/2021 - 18:00

      braaaapppp
      .

  • Godric on 02/03/2021 - 17:15
    +1

    I'm debating sort of the same cars, miata or 350z, leaning towards a miata though

  • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 17:16

    Would $25,000 be too much for a mx-5 ND 2.0 with 90k? Best price I can find

    • [Deactivated] on 03/03/2021 - 21:40

      Covid tax is not helping. Mate bought his as a 4yr old with 28000km on the clock for $26k. A year before covid.

      • cathole on 04/03/2021 - 19:50
        +47

        Lot's to unpack here.

        How's he have so much money?

        and

        Why are you friends with a toddler?

        • sabracad on 04/03/2021 - 21:19

          This comment deserves more appreciation!!

        • RedHab on 05/03/2021 - 14:36

          MX5 is nice and small inside, toddler can fit with comfort ;-)

          That said, having played with both an old Mx5 and a 350Z (not 370), the MX5 is way more fun - it's like a go-cart. Only downside was that if you're above 170cm you might find yourself a bit tall for it.

      • [Deactivated] on 05/03/2021 - 21:41

        Lol

    • de9299 on 04/03/2021 - 08:40

      Wow, that is quite a bit of money for 90,000k run car.
      I insured my ND1 2.0 run 58k at $26k, I'm not ready for an upgrade yet but this would have been an awesome time to sell.

  • sim777 on 02/03/2021 - 17:20
    +15

    ahh the days you could get an s2000 for 20k….

    • Kangal on 04/03/2021 - 15:02

      S2k looks cool on the outside, looks cool on the inside, but it's not very sporty. I ended up getting an Integra for like half the price, and it wasn't half as bad.

      MX5 do have that lightweight sportiness going on for it. Similar with the 86. Though gone are the days/decade of mid-90's to early-00's where Japanese cars gave us many fun toys. The VR4, GT-4, WRX, Prelude, RX7, GTS, GTR, Supra, etc etc.

  • apsilon on 02/03/2021 - 17:25
    +4

    I've owned a 350Z and still own an NA8 MX-5. On paper you may think there's some comparison as you've said, but there isn't. One's a fun sports car and the other is a heavy GT cruiser. I haven't driven either the 370Z or ND but I think they'll be very similar ie sports car vs GT so it really depends on what you want and what you're going to do with it.

  • TheMindsetTraveller on 02/03/2021 - 17:31
    +1

    The 370Z might be a bit of a fuel guzzler, do some research if ongoing fuel cost might be of concern.

    • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 17:46
      +3

      Neither are hairdresser cars, proper sports cars.

    • Neilzy on 02/03/2021 - 17:55
      +3

      Why the stereotyping. Both cars listed by the OP are very capable sports cars in their own regards.

      There are even people who track Echo's.

        • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 19:26
          +7

          being lightweight, rear wheel drive, manual with a decent power to weight makes them. Do you think Commie SS are sports cars?

        • [Deactivated] on 02/03/2021 - 20:00
          +1

          I've never seen a hairdresser that has an MX5 or 370Z.

          In what world do they make enough money to buy sports cars? Lmao get out of here with your dumb 30 year old stereotypes grandpa.

        • SydStrand on 02/03/2021 - 22:12
          +1

          I'm real curious where you draw the line at 'sports car.'

          • CarbonMini on 05/03/2021 - 00:03

            @SydStrand: Probably different for everyone but I think the mx5/370z is more of a roadster/2 door coupe than a proper sports car. I would probably draw the line at something like a M2 or a CLA45. Not to say that the mx5/370z are bad cars, they are probably the best track toys that op can buy anyways. Super fun to drive, especially the mx5, feels super nimble

            • zeomega on 05/03/2021 - 15:41

              @CarbonMini: Interesting statement. Whilst i agree the MX-5 is not powerful, it however has a well balanced chassis and is regularly used for track cars and cup events. Can't say the same for a CLA45 which IMHO is really NOT a sports car but a overly powerful small dragster sedan.

              I guess it boils down to what you term a sports car, and for myself, it's about balance and cornering.

        • StalkingIbis on 05/03/2021 - 21:04

          Anyone whos driven an MX5 would have their mind changed.

    • FTTNope on 02/03/2021 - 22:04
      +3

      I bet you drive a 1993 Camry

  • Miata9 on 02/03/2021 - 17:54
    +7

    As a ND owner I wouldn't recommend 370z. My experience with 370z wasn't great. It was thirsty, heavy and everything feels dated. With 400z coming im pretty sure 370z will soon fade away.

    • [Deactivated] on 03/03/2021 - 21:44
      +3

      It's different. I have an ND too, and recent bought a high horsepower RWD (IS350). Got a blue EJ25 in the garage too… all different cars…

      370 is raw, old school high power japnese rwd. Nd is the modern take of a lightweight sports car… just different.

      • Miata9 on 04/03/2021 - 00:47

        I will take the nismo 370z for extra 15k but the standard is not my cup of tea for sure. Love the old JDM but I will actually pay for GR Yaris, Supra and 400z for my next car

  • ajh on 02/03/2021 - 18:15
    +9

    Have you considered an 86?

    • ribze1 on 03/03/2021 - 22:18

      This.

      MCM prove that it can be an awesome track car.

    • FreddyMerc on 03/03/2021 - 22:50
      +5

      I drove one for a few months in 2014. It just lacked power. I don't like how many you see on the road too.

      • ajh on 04/03/2021 - 08:34
        +1

        I beg to disagree but between your choices mine would be the Nissan. Just has a bit more nfs appeal than the mx although mx is a better balanced car.

        Judging by your details provided surely if you’re interested in this segment you’ve considered s15 or r33? Moving up in value, fits within your budget for now and collectible.

        • FreddyMerc on 04/03/2021 - 10:54

          I had a lot of fun in the 86, main reason for not considering is because I has already owned one, like to try something different. s15 and r33 are too old school JDM. I like the heated leather seats, bose stereo, proven reliability etc. that my candidates offer even if it makes them flawed sports cars.

      • nayfon on 05/03/2021 - 16:07

        If you want power, then why are you looking at the MX-5? Neither the MX-5 or 86/BRZ are fast in a straight line. But they'll definitely out perform the 370 in the twisty stuff.

  • pegaxs on 02/03/2021 - 18:48
    +1

    I almost pulled the trigger on a 370Z a few years ago… and I have to say that it was more like a track car with registration than anything else. It was harsh to ride in and loud but it went like stink off a chrome shovel.

    Friend has a ND and I’ve been in it a few times and it would be a car I would happily drive every day… but I certainly wouldn’t be shopping against a 370Z.

  • Legoncy on 02/03/2021 - 19:31
    +3

    As a previous ND/NC/NB owner
    I’ll recommend the ND

    • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 20:06
      +23

      I'm doing well for myself financially, Doctor, married to a Doctor with no kids. Just inherited a tidy sum too. Already have about 250k in ETF's, own house outright etc. May I ask what car you would choose without any budget restrictions?

      P.s the MX-5 NA I had was more "Fun" than the M2 Competition I had a few years back.

      • tsunamisurfer on 02/03/2021 - 20:15
        -7

        I am not a car person, I am biased towards cars being an expense to get one from A to B rather than a fun thing.

        what car you would choose without any budget restrictions?

        A Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Cruiser….see how boring I am?

        • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 20:25
          +10

          The new RAV4 is a great car. Car people are a strange and impractical breed. You either get it or you don't.

        • Oz8argain on 03/03/2021 - 16:52
          +6

          Car is an appliance to you, I get that. So your point of view probably doesn't apply to us. I feel the same about knitting. Why would people knit for fun? just go buy some clothes.

          • Indomietable on 04/03/2021 - 12:12
            +4

            @Oz8argain: Yep .. some people spend boat load of money on fishing equipment when its cheaper, easier, cleaner, and much more convenient to buy fish from market.

      • TheMindsetTraveller on 03/03/2021 - 08:55
        -3

        For me, similar position, financially stable - enough to leave my career and try pursue a new career as a hotelier - happy to work as a bellboy and get $22/hour if anyone knows of an opening.

        You are in a privilege position - DINKs, like me - I would suggest travelling and exploring this amazing world once the world allows - which the experience is worth more than any fun car imo - but I am confident you already travel a bit.

        That said, during Covid and when I felt crap about myself - I thought about buying a 'fun' car and was considering either of these convertible / cabriolets MX5 ND, Audi A5, or Mercedes E300. Looking at around $30ishK, $60ishK, $80ishK respectively. So maybe look at those? They have their pros and cons obviously and the intention of each car is different too.

        I wanted more of an (effortless) cruiser so was committed to an E300. There was a used one for sale with the colour I liked, low miles, one owner who lived in a suburb that could easily afford these cars so would likely look after it - then the Minister of Finance aka my wife said no .. and she was right, especially now that I am back at school and going to start earning $22 per hour in my new career.

        Good luck with your fun car search!

      • johnwinds on 04/03/2021 - 15:03

        I drive an M240 company car, so I'm curious, what made the MX more fun than the M2?

        • zeomega on 08/03/2021 - 11:31

          Balance, control.

          Driving at the limit without being stupidly fast.

          Kicking out the tail when you want it to, max grip when you don't.

          Wind in your hair.

          Entering a corner signficantly faster than the M2, carrying all that speed and exiting the corner earlier with pedal to the metal.

      • macrocephalic on 04/03/2021 - 16:24

        May I ask what car you would choose without any budget restrictions?

        A motorbike. If you're worried about ending up under a Hilux then get a dirt bike instead of a road bike.

  • Gunther on 02/03/2021 - 19:52

    Where is the 400z option?

    • Matt P on 02/03/2021 - 20:06
      +7

      For 25k? I'll take 20 of them

      • [Deactivated] on 03/03/2021 - 21:47

        I will broden them.

  • Matt P on 02/03/2021 - 20:06

    Also currently in the market for a ND 2.0 GT. Assuming a manual?

    Market went silly in April like it did with every other car so you might struggle to get a lower mileage car for 25k.

    Prices should "cool off" as we head into winter

    • FreddyMerc on 02/03/2021 - 20:08
      +1

      Do you recall what the prices were like pre-covid? President of "Save the Manuals" over here.

      • Matt P on 02/03/2021 - 20:46
        +2

        2015/6s with 40-60k were 22-24. I had (still have) a search for under 25k and meeting the above criteria on carsales and was getting an email every few days.

      • FTTNope on 02/03/2021 - 22:08
        +1

        MX-5s got hit with COVID tax pretty early. I was convinced an ND 2.0L was going to replace my Megane RS250, but the price hikes on used NDs was so sharp I ended up buying an M135i (which also got hit with COVID tax but later in the year, after I bought it).
        Didn't help that the 2019 model year ND got a healthy power hike to 135kW which would really have been the one I wanted.
        My recollection of pre-COVID prices matches Matt P.

      • PGee on 02/03/2021 - 22:54

        I bought my ND in April just before the Covid tax. paid 22k for a 2015 with 60k km. I daily it (have a 135i which I rarely use also). Its a bit noisy on the highway but you get used to it, mainly from the top and road noise from the lack of sound deadening. I have the base model, the GT is meant to have a slightly less noisy top.

        the ND does have gearbox issues, but mine is still on the original. In USA dealers will replace them out of warranty, but I doubt you will have such luck in Australia. Same goes for the soft-tops which also have points that rub and deteriorate on the early models, the dealers I spoken to don't want to know about it, even though in the US dealers will replace them.

        The 2.0L engine is reliable but lacks charm, i'm sure the update one fixes that with the higher redline, it's why I ended up with a Goodwin Motorsport exhaust.

        The infotainment is a bit slow, but honestly the car is so much fun at low-speed I'm sure you know from the NA experience. Just remember you will get some looks pulling into the hospital carpark like I do haha, especially with the loud exhaust.

        • Matt P on 02/03/2021 - 23:15

          Any tips on picking a gearbox that is on its way out?

          Also re: noisy, i'm about to turn 40 and currently driving a 9N3 Polo GTI i bought new in my mid 20s. Stock exhaust but back when VW fitted noisy exhaust systems to GTIs. I get regular comments that people heard me a few streets away. At least it isn't as noisy as my Mk2 Golf GTI

          • PGee on 02/03/2021 - 23:53
            +1

            @Matt P: unfortunately the gearbox gives no warnings. Will just suddenly die. They have revised it many times, and less issues in newer cars, but can still happen. A lot of info online, but I'm hoping that mine will be fine :)
            It is such a joy to use however this box. Much better than my bimmer with a short shift kit.

            The reasoning it is that Mazda developed it's own in-house lightweight box for the ND and are paying the consequences. Some people in the states are swapping it for the NC box, which is also what's used in the Fiat 124 as standard.

            • FreddyMerc on 03/03/2021 - 10:40

              @PGee: Knew about the soft top issues but not about the gearbox. Let me read into it a bit more. One of the cars I'm looking at has a full goodwin race exhaust (headers, midpipe, muffler) and a tune plus adjustable coil overs. Sure it would be very fun. Good thing I work at a small GP practice..

  • yellowfever on 02/03/2021 - 21:43
    +1

    I like the look of the 370
    12 years on and it still looks beautiful especially the wide rear arches, and still for sale brand new (for $50K)
    Definitely has passed its own marketability period some years ago

    But if you can find a neat used one I'd snap it up

  • plmko on 02/03/2021 - 22:34

    MX-5 2.0L not worth it unless you get the revised engine variant. The low red line in the older version makes it unrewarding for a NA engine with so little power.

    For that reason you'll find many reviewers mention that the 1.6L at the time was the better choice.

    • [Deactivated] on 03/03/2021 - 21:51

      I have a 2015 ND (before the power hike) - it is perfectly fine.

      The only thing that would bring me away to an ND2 is the blind spot monitoring. The higher rev range is nice, but not necessary.

    • JimB on 04/03/2021 - 11:17
      +1

      Yes, the smaller 1.5L engine has a higher rev limit.

      FYI, 1.5L not 1.6L.

    • Leeroy Jenkins on 04/03/2021 - 14:41

      so little power

      You can't just talk about power without associating the weight of the car.

      • StickMan on 05/03/2021 - 12:07
        -1

        My NA falcon has better 0-100 times, and perhaps even 0-70 times. And it's a boat in comparison. Sure, different in twists.

  • jason101 on 02/03/2021 - 22:40
    +6

    I’m balding and have kids, oddly enough one of the kids is into cars and talks about mx5’s non stop - so much so I’m thinking of buying one as a fun father/son enthusiast hobby and then handing it off in few years when he gets his licence. So don’t think you’re at risk of your last chance, it may come back around again as mine seems to be.

  • conza on 03/03/2021 - 10:50
    +1

    Disagree wholeheartedly with the assessment on the ND.1, the 2.0 engine is perfectly fine an fast enough, 0-60 sub 6 seconds and in reality will be faster than the old 370Z.

    However even if it were slightly slower in a drag race, it's a better car, lighter, more modern, it's a car for drivers, a 370Z can be made into a driver's car with lots of modifications however it starts off as more of a cruiser.

  • PurpleHippo on 03/03/2021 - 11:26
    -1

    If you want the 2.0L, you'll want the ND2 (2019+). Otherwise, the 1.5L is the better option.

  • Oz8argain on 03/03/2021 - 17:16

    What other criteria besides fun 2 seat car?
    below are my very subjective opinions from my personal experience.
    I have owned a BRZ - it's light weight, fun to throw around corners.
    I moved on to a 370z - feels heavy but sounds awesome and has tones of power, not as nimble. I feel like this is more of a GT car for the highway.
    I own a i30N now and feels completely different, a combination of turbo fun and family practicality. pop pop pop.

    I would choose a lightweight car like a MX5, BRZ/86, or S2k (Holds value + VETC) over a 370z as a pure fun car, you'll row through the gears and enjoy how fast they FEEL. Go with a 370 if you you want to do highway pulls and drifting, you'll be on your way to jail after 1st gear. You can join the 370z fb group, lots of decent ones for sale.

    • FreddyMerc on 03/03/2021 - 22:46

      I currently own an i30N as above. Awesome car but wife claimed it. I joined the 370z group but nothing clean at a decent price. Maybe I'm on the wrong one?

      • Oz8argain on 04/03/2021 - 10:06

        try 370z parts for sale australia

        • FreddyMerc on 04/03/2021 - 11:02

          I'm a member already. That white one has dents and scuff marks all around the body. The interior also has cracks and the owner won't provide the VIN so I suspect repairable write off.

          Red one in QLD

          Second red one an auto

          The rest are already sold. You need to be quick to snap up the decent ones.

  • [Deactivated] on 03/03/2021 - 21:34

    Depends on how long you are planning to keep it. Short (upto 3 yrs) - ND. Long (4 yrs or more) - Z370. Suspect the Z will retain value better in the long run, 370 is the last of its kind. 400Z is likely turbo charged, and probably one of the very last before hybrid/electric takes over.

    Different car, different kind of fun. Have you owned a high powered RWD before (or can drive sensibly)? If not, stick to the ND. That V6 RWD can be intimidating.

    • FreddyMerc on 03/03/2021 - 22:43
      +1

      Interesting. M2 Competition last year. I don't drive more than 6/10th so ever exploited the potential. I think I'm more of a fun on a roundabout at 50km person.

      • daowiies on 04/03/2021 - 03:00

        If you're a roundabout person at 50km, I think you've answered your own question. Hardtop ND looks amazing too!

        • FreddyMerc on 04/03/2021 - 11:07

          Cheers, I think I will go for that. Easier to find an unmolested one too.

          • [Deactivated] on 05/03/2021 - 21:34

            @FreddyMerc: Might wanna check out the Honda S660. Only JDM import thought. That car will be more fun than the MX5 1.5L in low speed.

  • gromit on 03/03/2021 - 22:38
    +1

    Had a z. Be warned on tire and brake costs.

  • john_conner on 04/03/2021 - 00:09
    +2

    You will have a lot more fun at street legal speeds with the MX5.
    You would need to be going much higher speeds and risking yourself and others to get similar enjoyment out of a Z.

  • de9299 on 04/03/2021 - 08:36
    +2

    ND owner here (fifth year with the car). The MX5 is so much more fun at low speeds. It comes alive in corners and mountain roads and doesn't require heavy mods (or mods at all). In the last 4 years, I haven't had any mechanical issues with the car and the stock factory fitted brakes are still going after heaps of spirited driving. Other than the servicing costs, the only cash I've spent on it was ceramic coating and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.

    Miata is always the answer.

  • [Deactivated] on 04/03/2021 - 08:45
    +2

    I have a 2016 ND1 2L. Also have a moderately modified 2017 Toyota 86.

    Both are as basic and pure as you can get for modern sports cars. The driver must do the work to do well in performance driving events (excluding drag strips).

    Many other (more expensive) cars, any driver can become a hero driving them.

    For daily, i prefer the ND. Lightweight and good low to mid torque, makes daily driving so easy and fun, yet all within the speed limits.

    Both have had zero issues mechanically and should remain reliable for the many years to come. This will allow me to save money for next cars.

  • Bid Sniper on 04/03/2021 - 08:49

    Honda S660 if you want to go full impractical

  • Zondor on 04/03/2021 - 09:59

    370z is a great car but there are prototypes around for the 400 at the moment. Don't get one new get a second hand one for a good deal.

  • Commander Shepard on 04/03/2021 - 11:21
    +3

    I own both. Well I did up until 2 months ago. Now we have a 370z (partners car) and my 2011 Cayman (edit: + a 1.6 NA MX5).

    The ND is a far superior car to drive hands down. The 370z is more of a GT Cruiser. I think it feels very similar to a Mustang. We got our 2009 370z with 170000kms on it for $14500 18 months ago.

    I purchased my first MX5 ND GT 2.0L manual in 2017 for $26000 (20000kms). And purchased my second 2015 ND GT 2.0L manual in early 2020 with 60000kms for $22500. I sold it for $26000 2 months ago.

    I also owned a BRZ at the same time. That car was terrible. I have never owned a more disappointing car in my life. Worst engine ever. I honestly dont know how people daily them.

    You will pay an equal premium on both now due to COVID. But if you fit in the ND. 100% go for the ND. When I had them, I tossed the keys to anyone I met who was curious. Everyone should own one or try one out.

    • Oz8argain on 04/03/2021 - 13:08
      +2

      100% agree!!
      The 86/brz needs a tune and some bolt-ons to be good. Hopefully, the new one is better, at least the torque dip is gone.

  • Leeroy Jenkins on 04/03/2021 - 14:35

    Depends on what kind of a driving experience you want.

    370z is much heavier than MX5. As a result, it can't corner as fast as an MX5, but it has a a slight advantage in straight line acceleration.

    That said, the MX5 is by no means slow. It's not a drag race monster, but it's super fast on the road, cuz you can't turn a blind eye on its amazing power to weight ratio.

    I would choose ND MX5 any day over a 370z. 370z is simply a much duller car in comparison.

    • Viper8 on 04/03/2021 - 14:53
      +1

      "cuz you can't turn a blind eye on its amazing power to weight ratio"

      Yea its really light, but it still has the same outputs as a standard small hatchback. The power and torque to weight ratio's are less than most "warm" hatchbacks and some large run-of-the-mill SUV's. And warm hatches aren't even remotely "super fast".

      Power-to-weight is ~110, torque-to weight ~ 185. That places the MX5 roughly on par with an i30 N-Line. That's closer to a base model i30 than the full-fat i30 N.

      And whilst we're on the topic, most car enthusiast would classify an i30 N-line as mildly fast, an i30N as fast, and something closer to a A45, RS3 as super fast.

      • cille745 on 05/03/2021 - 16:23

        New MX5 is 125kw/t not 110

        • Viper8 on 05/03/2021 - 16:32

          That's nice. OP was talking about a 2017 model and then went on to say "…wait until the prices come down to the 22 - 23k mark…"
          So clearly they are looking at the previous model where the 2.0L manual makes 118kW and weighs 1.03 - 1.08 tonnes with manual trans depending on trim.
          So ~110kW/t it is.

          And on the topic of the new one, it's P:W is now around the same level as the 86/BRZ, which is renowned for being very slow in a straight line in the world of performance cars. I've driven one and can confirm this. Even an i30 N-Line is faster in a straight line…

      • Leeroy Jenkins on 05/03/2021 - 21:48

        When I said fast, I actually compared it to normal commuter cars on the road. It's plenty fast compared to the average car on the road. I do apologise for not being clear, cuz apparently the 370z is heaps faster than MX5.

        Also dude, you can ignore engine torque number, it alone means bugger all for acceleration. If you are already talking about power, then think of it as an aggregate metric that already has engine torque integrated into it. Basically the power curve and the weight of the car tell you everything.

        The i30N has roughly similar peak power to weight ratio to the MX5, but it's a bit faster than MX5 cuz the area under its power curve is bigger than MX5 thanks to its turbo charger.

        • Viper8 on 07/03/2021 - 11:10

          Well aware of all that. Given we don't have power figures for all rpm's, peak torque (which occurs in the mid range) is a good proxxy for this. And mid range is more important than top end for street driving.

          Just ask any 86 owner. The biggest issue isn't the lack of power, it's the lack of torque. It doesn't do anything until you get it up past 4k. A torquey V8 or deisel by comparison will lazily surge away at just 1200 rpm.

  • This Guy on 04/03/2021 - 17:00

    You are still replying, so I will throw in my 2 cents.

    MX5 if you want a light-ish car to throw around corners.

    370z if you want to increase your budget by about $10k to turbo and what ever other mods the mechanic sell you. Otherwise you might as well buy an 86.

    Or buy this then spend $20k making it 'road legal' (no RWC and rego expires on the 11/4)

    https://www.carsales.com.au/cars/details/2003-nissan-skyline…

    • Commander Shepard on 04/03/2021 - 17:22
      +2

      That V35 is a bargain. Those cam sensors went on ours, $200 later, 1 hr of time and a bit of awkward positioning and you can fix it.

      If it was in SA, I would check it out, buy it, repair it and flip it for $7000 more. Even if there are other issues, you should easily break even.

      We had a V35 for 5 years prior to our 370z..
      Excellent underrated cars.

      • This Guy on 04/03/2021 - 18:08

        I would fly down tomorrow if I had the room and spare cash. It would not take much to make it into a super car.

  • swong on 04/03/2021 - 17:06

    I was in the exact same situation a few months ago with a similar budget and cars under consideration and ended up getting a 1 series coupe (which is the predecessor to the M2) so I was going to suggest this but then noticed you said you had already owned the M2 comp!

    Curious why you sold the M2?

    • FreddyMerc on 04/03/2021 - 20:48

      It was on a loan and I just wanted to get out of debt. Nice car but very expensive form of transport.

      • [Deactivated] on 05/03/2021 - 21:39

        Have it under the medical practice ABN. Your office will be home (sole trader), and your place of work is the medical practice.

  • KLoNe on 04/03/2021 - 20:49

    Interior of the 370z is like some shitty 12k Kia.

  • bmerigan on 04/03/2021 - 21:39
    +1

    I think the 370z is more flashy and it has more power. It's the car to get for a bit of fun.
    The MX5 is well regarded as one of the purest driving cars you can get. It's the car to get if you just want to enjoy driving.

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