Nissan 350Z vs Bmw Z4 3.0

[TDutchy]

Ladies/Gents/PHers,

I'm looking at getting either of the above. Is there anyone here who's got experience with both?

I'd be looking at manuals only and in and around the £6k mark.

I would be keen to hear any feedback regarding;

• Running Costs (Bear in mind im buying a £30k car for £6k)
• Performance
• Handling
• Practicality

Thanks in advance.

T.

[junglie]

I have experience of both and the Z4 wins for me.

The 350Z is still a good car but I found the interior a little low rent, there was not that much space and it was quite boomy when driving at motorway speeds. The engine needs to be mated a sports exhaust to sound its best.

I am not saying the Z4 is faultless as it is not particularly when fited with run flats where the ride is useless! The engine sounds better, the interior is made better (but not an E34!) and just seems more prestige overall.

[H_Kan]

I've got the Z4 coupe, so drive will be a bit different from the roadster, but I really rate the car. Very refined for the most part and plenty of fun when you want it to be.

At £6k it'll be the roadster, so just a few points to look out for-

- rear springs crack quite often, cheap enough to replace but check
- check the roof motors, there is sometimes water ingress which buggers them and they are costly to replace
- parking sensors can be a bit funny, but not end of the world

[Kong]

The 350Z is noticably faster and has a better ride quality but in every other department the Z4 wins in my opinion.

[roscopervis]

Is the 350z a coupe or a roadster? At that price the Z4 must be a 231bhp convertable

The Z4 is perhaps more refined and tactile in terms of the fit and finish. However, I think the 350Z is a much better drivers car, but with a lower rent interior and rear tyre noise. Handling is better, power is better, brakes are better. The 350z has heavier controls so the Z4 is 'easier' to drive normally, but the 350z is more rewarding when pushing it.

[zabba]

Have a read through this Evo review, both newer versions that the one's you would be looking at but gives you an idea. Although can't help but think that some of the Z4 shortcomings are due to thr run flats.

http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/cargrouptests/2098...

[JonathanLegard]

The 350Z is more fun to drive sideways.