summer cars?! z4, 370z, others??
#1
summer cars?! z4, 370z, others??
hey guys...im really loving my w203. great car!
fairly reliable and low maintenance, considering its a benz
i've been thinking of maybe trading in my car in a year for a c63...but i cant justify....sure the 204s look nice, but i believe a 203 are great daily drivers...especially with 4matic!!!
so for those who have kept their 203s... did any of you guys have another car for kicks?? like a summer ride....2 door coupe...maybe with a hardtop....something to drive hard
im kinda feeling the z4s...they look NICE!!!! but overpriced...on the otherhand....370z are HOT....but ive been told they have major blindspots
any suggestions? currently have or would like to have??
fairly reliable and low maintenance, considering its a benz
i've been thinking of maybe trading in my car in a year for a c63...but i cant justify....sure the 204s look nice, but i believe a 203 are great daily drivers...especially with 4matic!!!
so for those who have kept their 203s... did any of you guys have another car for kicks?? like a summer ride....2 door coupe...maybe with a hardtop....something to drive hard
im kinda feeling the z4s...they look NICE!!!! but overpriced...on the otherhand....370z are HOT....but ive been told they have major blindspots
any suggestions? currently have or would like to have??
#2
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
I don't have a summer car yet. But I am REALLY REALLY REALLY thinking JDM for my toy car. Euros are just too heavy. Im looking into 370z, Evo X, and the new STI's. I really wanna see what this AWD is all about.
#4
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 10,067
Likes: 10
From: Westwood, NJ
2004 Civic Si. FWD for the Win!
If you can fit into it, I'd recommend a Honda S2000. Great cars to drive with typical Honda reliability.
I love the new Z4s too, but do agree that they are fairly overpriced, though not as much as the TT and SLK. The M Coupe is a pretty decent 2-person car that's dropped in price nicely. Or look into the 135i convertible - small enough to be fun, but still gives you some practicality.
Until the Z2 comes out (hopefully), I'm sticking to my modded CRX as my summer/autox car. I've spent way too much on it, and it's only worth 4-5k to someone else, but it's hard to find newer cars that are so simple, yet so much fun to drive.
I love the new Z4s too, but do agree that they are fairly overpriced, though not as much as the TT and SLK. The M Coupe is a pretty decent 2-person car that's dropped in price nicely. Or look into the 135i convertible - small enough to be fun, but still gives you some practicality.
Until the Z2 comes out (hopefully), I'm sticking to my modded CRX as my summer/autox car. I've spent way too much on it, and it's only worth 4-5k to someone else, but it's hard to find newer cars that are so simple, yet so much fun to drive.
#5
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
I was looking into 135i's as well but I am really leaning towards the 370z. Because it isn't crazy expensive. I will probably get an 08. And the mods for JDM cars are out of this world. Plus it is cheaper to mod JDM cars as opposed to euros.
#6
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
I was looking into 135i's as well but I am really leaning towards the 370z. Because it isn't crazy expensive. I will probably get an 2009. The mods for JDM cars are out of this world. Plus it is cheaper to mod JDM cars as opposed to euros.
#7
Not mine, but identical.
135i > 370z
I drove both and I wasn't thrilled with the Z. It's pretty much a match in terms of speed but the feel and sound is totally different with the BMW being better in both regards. The Z had a better stereo, but who needs a stereo when the N54 TT I6 is making such lovely noises?
Mine is black/black 6MT, Sport Package, Premium Package - paid $38.5k plus tax. Sticker was $42k. This was end of April.
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#8
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
135's are cute. But it just isn't masculine enough for me. plus I don't have 40K nor the price of mods for another euro. Plus the BMW weighs 600+ more lbs. than the 370z. The BMW 135i is nice and all, but it doesn't have enough swagg for me. The 135i is already boosted with 300 or so HP and the 370z is 330 or so HP naturally aspirated.
Last edited by paypaboi; 09-10-2009 at 05:39 PM.
#9
135's are cute. But it just isn't masculine enough for me. plus I don't have 40K nor the price of mods for another euro. Plus the BMW weighs 600+ more lbs. than the 370z. The BMW 135i is nice and all, but it doesn't have enough swagg for me. The 135i is already boosted with 300 or so HP and the 370z is 330 or so HP naturally aspirated.
370Z Torque: 270@5200rpm
135i Torque: 300@1400rpm-5000rpm
Also, it's very easy to modify the N54 engine. Edmunds.com spent, I think $700 on a reflash that put their 135i at 360hp and 360tq.
I really thought the 370Z was more expensive than it turns out to be if you get the base model. Equipped nearly the same as my 135i, there wasn't a huge price difference. Since a base model is right around $30,000, I see your point. I was still thinking about the higher end models.
FWIW, the G37 coupe is overrated. I spent from 09/2007 to 04/2009 with one and I couldn't be happier to see the 135i sitting in its place. Good riddance.
#10
I wouldn't mind either a 370Z or a 135i. the 135i is a great all around package, but the 6-speed on the 370Z is pretty damn cool with its throttle blipping. I would much rather have a 135i than a 335i, that's for sure.
the G37 doesn't do it for me at all. I had a 2009 G37 rental for a month and it had some pep, it wasn't as fast as everyone makes it out to be. plus, the steering didn't feel connected at all.
I like the new Z4 a lot too, but I can't justify the price when a fully loaded Z4 is close to an M3 which is waaaay better.
#11
i would go with a 370z or a used 350z depending on a budget or a used e46 m3. these are both fun cars. honda s2k is cool too if it's your style.
evo, sti, s2k, any year m3, nsx, supra
evo, sti, s2k, any year m3, nsx, supra
#12
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
The BMW 135i I have replaced a 2008 G37. I'm very familiar with these cars. Don't let that 30hp on paper fool you, the power delivery is much different and if the 370Z can outrun the 135i, it'll need longer than 1/4 mile and into triple digits to do so. Here is why the 370Z can't beat the 135i in a race:
370Z Torque: 270@5200rpm
135i Torque: 300@1400rpm-5000rpm
Also, it's very easy to modify the N54 engine. Edmunds.com spent, I think $700 on a reflash that put their 135i at 360hp and 360tq.
I really thought the 370Z was more expensive than it turns out to be if you get the base model. Equipped nearly the same as my 135i, there wasn't a huge price difference. Since a base model is right around $30,000, I see your point. I was still thinking about the higher end models.
FWIW, the G37 coupe is overrated. I spent from 09/2007 to 04/2009 with one and I couldn't be happier to see the 135i sitting in its place. Good riddance.
370Z Torque: 270@5200rpm
135i Torque: 300@1400rpm-5000rpm
Also, it's very easy to modify the N54 engine. Edmunds.com spent, I think $700 on a reflash that put their 135i at 360hp and 360tq.
I really thought the 370Z was more expensive than it turns out to be if you get the base model. Equipped nearly the same as my 135i, there wasn't a huge price difference. Since a base model is right around $30,000, I see your point. I was still thinking about the higher end models.
FWIW, the G37 coupe is overrated. I spent from 09/2007 to 04/2009 with one and I couldn't be happier to see the 135i sitting in its place. Good riddance.
On another note....all I have to say is:
And:
PASS THE TISSUE PLEASE!!!
Last edited by paypaboi; 09-10-2009 at 08:04 PM.
#13
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
there is no '08 370Z. the '08 was still a 350Z.
I wouldn't mind either a 370Z or a 135i. the 135i is a great all around package, but the 6-speed on the 370Z is pretty damn cool with its throttle blipping. I would much rather have a 135i than a 335i, that's for sure.
the G37 doesn't do it for me at all. I had a 2009 G37 rental for a month and it had some pep, it wasn't as fast as everyone makes it out to be. plus, the steering didn't feel connected at all.
I like the new Z4 a lot too, but I can't justify the price when a fully loaded Z4 is close to an M3 which is waaaay better.
I wouldn't mind either a 370Z or a 135i. the 135i is a great all around package, but the 6-speed on the 370Z is pretty damn cool with its throttle blipping. I would much rather have a 135i than a 335i, that's for sure.
the G37 doesn't do it for me at all. I had a 2009 G37 rental for a month and it had some pep, it wasn't as fast as everyone makes it out to be. plus, the steering didn't feel connected at all.
I like the new Z4 a lot too, but I can't justify the price when a fully loaded Z4 is close to an M3 which is waaaay better.
#14
Or if you have the money an e46 M3 with a HPF stage 3 kit and you are good to go. Close to 800 to the wheels isn't bad is it?
Here is stage 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa6_mO3NAO8
Here is stage 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa6_mO3NAO8
#15
Super Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 758
Likes: 2
From: California
03 W203, 13 E350, 13 W204, 14 C218
Or if you have the money an e46 M3 with a HPF stage 3 kit and you are good to go. Close to 800 to the wheels isn't bad is it?
Here is stage 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa6_mO3NAO8
Here is stage 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa6_mO3NAO8
#18
#19
I've considered trading soon too, much as i love my coupe. I've been looking at either a 135i, a 3 series coupe or possibly an audi s4. the other choice is a C350 (w204), but no matter it still seems all too w203 especially the interior - not enough 'change' to justify the cost. I've yet to test drive any of them yet though, so the jury is still out.
#20
just between the Z34 370Z and the 135i I'd take the Z. just no-can-do when I know the 1-series started out as a hatch and forced into a coupe. If the 1-series is available in the hatch then it would be a different story since it would have much more utility.
and 135 vs 335...I'd take the 335 any day. just can't find myself liking the 1-series at all even after test drives.
for a fun car...the new Z4 with the same engine is far better since the 1-series coupe rear seat is pretty useless to begin with.
and 135 vs 335...I'd take the 335 any day. just can't find myself liking the 1-series at all even after test drives.
for a fun car...the new Z4 with the same engine is far better since the 1-series coupe rear seat is pretty useless to begin with.
Last edited by FrankW; 09-10-2009 at 09:34 PM.
#22
#24
off-topic: read that Daimler is refusing to supply more transmission for those cars and Chrysler is suing Daimler for it. LOL
#25
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 5,034
Likes: 6
From: Corona, CA
03 g35 coupe...........02 c32 Sold
The BMW 135i I have replaced a 2008 G37. I'm very familiar with these cars. Don't let that 30hp on paper fool you, the power delivery is much different and if the 370Z can outrun the 135i, it'll need longer than 1/4 mile and into triple digits to do so. Here is why the 370Z can't beat the 135i in a race:
370Z Torque: 270@5200rpm
135i Torque: 300@1400rpm-5000rpm
Also, it's very easy to modify the N54 engine. Edmunds.com spent, I think $700 on a reflash that put their 135i at 360hp and 360tq.
I really thought the 370Z was more expensive than it turns out to be if you get the base model. Equipped nearly the same as my 135i, there wasn't a huge price difference. Since a base model is right around $30,000, I see your point. I was still thinking about the higher end models.
FWIW, the G37 coupe is overrated. I spent from 09/2007 to 04/2009 with one and I couldn't be happier to see the 135i sitting in its place. Good riddance.
370Z Torque: 270@5200rpm
135i Torque: 300@1400rpm-5000rpm
Also, it's very easy to modify the N54 engine. Edmunds.com spent, I think $700 on a reflash that put their 135i at 360hp and 360tq.
I really thought the 370Z was more expensive than it turns out to be if you get the base model. Equipped nearly the same as my 135i, there wasn't a huge price difference. Since a base model is right around $30,000, I see your point. I was still thinking about the higher end models.
FWIW, the G37 coupe is overrated. I spent from 09/2007 to 04/2009 with one and I couldn't be happier to see the 135i sitting in its place. Good riddance.