New Nissan 350Z (Track) vs. Used Porsche 911 (996)?

Question

I'm looking at purchasing a car and I have a budget of about $35K. The performance is close; so is it pedigree or new?

Answer 1

What Kyle M was saying is correct for the most part, but you need to consider this when you are getting the Porsche used. They really arent meant to be cars with a lot of miles on them. If you can get over parting with the new Porsche in a year or two (depending on the quality/year/milage).

So, yeah, the Porsche is the better car, but if you are holding on to it for a bit you might be better off with the 350. The thing I have to warn you about though is how bad the fit and finish is. Right now, I'm driving the fraternal twin of the Z, the G35. I mean holy crap, it sucks, but it is pretty good to drive.

In short, if you have your heart set on the Z, go get it. My suggestion, and this is me, is to look around at other cars and see if they meet your needs. You might even be better off getting a G coupe and upgrading the suspension. Try out a year old bimmer, or something along those lines. Just keep your options open.

Good luck buying your car.

Answer 2

the 996 is absolutely the way to go, hands down. PERIOD.

I sold my 99 996 a while back (upgraded to an 03 GT2), and it was a fantastic car.

The 350z may possibly maybe keep up with a 996 (highly doubtful on a track), but everything else that it does just pales in comparison. The tightness of the gearbox, steering, fit and finish, and the general "feel" of the porsche is so beyond the 350z its not even funny. Porsches often dont look that great on paper, but they get all of the non-numerical things absolutely perfect. Seriously. Read some reviews of 996s, caymans and such. They often go against far faster and more expensive cars head to head, and almost always win just because of the qualitative aspects.

The porsche is an awesomely reliable car too. Mine only had 2 problems in my 5 years of ownership (sticking sunroof, and a leaking coolant tank, a very common problem).

I would HIGHLY HIGHLY suggest the 911. The 350z just isnt even in the same league, regardless of the brand name on it. The car just isnt as good in any aspect.

also: If you get the 911, be sure to join your local PCA, and go do one of their drivers ed events. You will realize why porsche is porsche then, and why you made the right choice over a 350z.


also: look at EVOs and STis. My son has an 05 STi and its been an awesome car for the street and track. Very practical too. He gets a ton of compliments on it all the time (and its stock, minus a racing harness). Hes loves the car. EVOs are wickedly nice also.

Answer 3

I say get the 350z with a little proper mods you can keep up or surpass the Porsche.Both cars are nice but the repair cost on anything for the Porsche is gonna cost you an arm and a leg.At least with the 350z you get Nissan VQ35 engine which has been one of the top ten engines in the world for the past 13years on wards list that's something that not many car companies can say.Also there are tons of aftermarket parts for it that will probably cost you a lot less then an aftermarket part would for a Porsche.As someone said already if its for bragging rights then get the Porsche but be ready to pay top dollars for anything it may need or you may want for it.Well hope this helps.

Answer 4

Sam I....I don't know how you figure that Nissan is an unreliable name, I've owned nothing but for the last 20 years, and if maintained properly they have been amazing for me. I've got a 10 year old 240sx with over 200,000 miles, and I still haven't even had to replace the clutch or exhaust. I also own a 2004 350z, and I LOVE this car. Parts will be cheaper for Nissan's, and also it's easier to find people qualified to work on them.

You always will pay a premium on a new car, so factor that into your decision. bottom line, both good fast nice looking cars, I don't think you can go wrong.

You may want to look at the new Infiniti G37 also, it's a beautiful car.

Lots of luck with your new car

Answer 5

You should get a Nissan 350Z instead of a Porsche 911 (996).

Answer 6

Cool your jets Kyle! Porsche People think all people like to spend $2,000 for clutch jobs and 1,000 for general services. Rays alloy 18" wheels 8.5 ft. and 10" rear BFG KDW tires sway bars and better brake pads high temp Motul brake fluid and a little car control school you will be keeping up with those porsche guys in that 350Z and have money in your pocket for a good helmet fire suit seat belts roll bar and camera to record your driving style. Or if it is bragging rights you want buy a porsche and watch it eat money at the Porsche garage.

Answer 7

get the 911.i love nissan but the 350z is not a great car.porche makes really good cars and has a good name.nissan are a bit unreliable and don't have a fantastic reputation.the 911 looks and goes better than the 350z.