Modern views on old debates... 350z, TT, Z4
Discussion
Hi all, thanks for reading and comments if you do.
Don’t let my username fool you I’m actually 34 - funny how old Hotmail / MSN usernames stick!
So I’ve had many cars over the years from a series 3 Landy that I restored through to Porsche 924 turbo > 944 > mustang and many in between.
I’m after a new weekend toy. After many months of trying to find a toy that would fit the family (2 kids and wife) I gave up as being 6ft7 any car I drive is a 3 seater. We have a family car so stuff them. I want something for me.
I’m not a drift king nor a track master, but I do love a good thrashing on the twisties to let off some steam. I’d say I’m a good competent driver but I’m no pro - whether this introduction helps or not...
To the point.
My choice of B road blaster has come down to the following.
Mk4 R32, 350z (probably an original), mk1 v6 TT possibly a mk2 too or a z4.
Now I’ve read pretty much all comments / comparisons on these cars - from when they were new or google searches from 2010 etc but I’m now after an up to date comparison, real world of ownership. So please no hair dresser comments etc
From my understanding
R32: not the best drive but rare and a modern classic - will seat 4.
Needs FSH esp Haldex units
TT: not the sportiest of cars but for me will do perfectly (I think) - avoid DSG due to longevity issues - similar for Haldex
I know it’ll understear like a barge but vs what I’m used to it’ll be lovely I’m sure
350z : beefy manly sports car - usual issue - jap car - now 15?! Years old so rust???
Z4: 3.0 SE - great balanced drive but expensive hoods and water in hood motors
What are your views on them? The age old comments still apply?
Big problems in some models?
Ideally Being a weekend toy, something I can tinker with, won’t cost a fortune to keep: run and will appreciate in time becoming a modern classic - or at least not lose value.
Budget upto £8k but ideally in the £5k region so I can offer the misses a holiday in return!
Open to ideas, thoughts and honest feedback rather than regurgitated BS please.
Do you own these cars?
Don’t let my username fool you I’m actually 34 - funny how old Hotmail / MSN usernames stick!
So I’ve had many cars over the years from a series 3 Landy that I restored through to Porsche 924 turbo > 944 > mustang and many in between.
I’m after a new weekend toy. After many months of trying to find a toy that would fit the family (2 kids and wife) I gave up as being 6ft7 any car I drive is a 3 seater. We have a family car so stuff them. I want something for me.
I’m not a drift king nor a track master, but I do love a good thrashing on the twisties to let off some steam. I’d say I’m a good competent driver but I’m no pro - whether this introduction helps or not...
To the point.
My choice of B road blaster has come down to the following.
Mk4 R32, 350z (probably an original), mk1 v6 TT possibly a mk2 too or a z4.
Now I’ve read pretty much all comments / comparisons on these cars - from when they were new or google searches from 2010 etc but I’m now after an up to date comparison, real world of ownership. So please no hair dresser comments etc
From my understanding
R32: not the best drive but rare and a modern classic - will seat 4.
Needs FSH esp Haldex units
TT: not the sportiest of cars but for me will do perfectly (I think) - avoid DSG due to longevity issues - similar for Haldex
I know it’ll understear like a barge but vs what I’m used to it’ll be lovely I’m sure
350z : beefy manly sports car - usual issue - jap car - now 15?! Years old so rust???
Z4: 3.0 SE - great balanced drive but expensive hoods and water in hood motors
What are your views on them? The age old comments still apply?
Big problems in some models?
Ideally Being a weekend toy, something I can tinker with, won’t cost a fortune to keep: run and will appreciate in time becoming a modern classic - or at least not lose value.
Budget upto £8k but ideally in the £5k region so I can offer the misses a holiday in return!
Open to ideas, thoughts and honest feedback rather than regurgitated BS please.
Do you own these cars?
I had a DE engined 350z and it was a very capable car. Plenty of traders out there offering mods to improve areas you want to tighten up but prices have pretty much bottomed out now £5k will get you something reasonable on an 04/05 plate. It is a GT car though rather than a pointy sports car.
In terms of rust, some have it, many don't, depends on how well looked after they are.
In terms of rust, some have it, many don't, depends on how well looked after they are.
reevo17 said:
Z4: 3.0 SE - great balanced drive but expensive hoods and water in hood motors
E85/86, great cars to drive but parts can be a bit pricey compared to other brands. You're right about the roof motors, £700 job to replace, probably £400 if you can do the work yourself, the part is nearly that much on it's own.So how about a Z4 coupe?
No roof motor, no roof motor problems and the coupe should be getting to around £5K-ish.
captain_cynic said:
reevo17 said:
Z4: 3.0 SE - great balanced drive but expensive hoods and water in hood motors
E85/86, great cars to drive but parts can be a bit pricey compared to other brands. You're right about the roof motors, £700 job to replace, probably £400 if you can do the work yourself, the part is nearly that much on it's own.So how about a Z4 coupe?
No roof motor, no roof motor problems and the coupe should be getting to around £5K-ish.
A lot of the Z4s have already had the motor replaced and re located to the boot nowadays.
Those that haven't, just make sure the drains are kept clear and you will be fine. There are some members on the Z4 forum who do the work for a very competitive price incase the worst does happen.
For the money they are great cars and I really like mine.
Those that haven't, just make sure the drains are kept clear and you will be fine. There are some members on the Z4 forum who do the work for a very competitive price incase the worst does happen.
For the money they are great cars and I really like mine.
I've only owned a TT so can't comment on the others.
A V6 model Mk1 is a rare beast, most are DSG.
If you're after one that'll hold it's value then I'd recommend a Mk1 225 with low mileage.
They're down to about 5k nowadays for low mileage.
There can be a fair bit wrong with them though, so take an expert with you when you buy.
Z4 coupe is a good shout but a bit over you're budget I think.
A V6 model Mk1 is a rare beast, most are DSG.
If you're after one that'll hold it's value then I'd recommend a Mk1 225 with low mileage.
They're down to about 5k nowadays for low mileage.
There can be a fair bit wrong with them though, so take an expert with you when you buy.
Z4 coupe is a good shout but a bit over you're budget I think.
I had a 350z HR until recently - good bit of kit. Not the fastest these days, but looks good enough, goes well enough, gets in to the 30+mpg on a cruise, V6 noise, cheap enough to keep running. I used mine as a daily for about 4 years, including some decent road trips around the alps. The HR is much closer to the e46 M3 in performance than most reviews would have you believe; it really is that good.
coldel said:
I had a DE engined 350z and it was a very capable car. Plenty of traders out there offering mods to improve areas you want to tighten up but prices have pretty much bottomed out now £5k will get you something reasonable on an 04/05 plate. It is a GT car though rather than a pointy sports car.
In terms of rust, some have it, many don't, depends on how well looked after they are.
This may sound a bizarre question for pistonheads, but are they too lively? What are they like in the wet?In terms of rust, some have it, many don't, depends on how well looked after they are.
I do like the fact that there is a hugely open aftermarket support for the car, looks gorgeous still.
SouthHamsGaz said:
A lot of the Z4s have already had the motor replaced and re located to the boot nowadays.
Those that haven't, just make sure the drains are kept clear and you will be fine. There are some members on the Z4 forum who do the work for a very competitive price incase the worst does happen.
For the money they are great cars and I really like mine.
That's guys, to all the z4 comments - forgive me I thought all coupe were M so ££££... I'll have another look! How do you find them as a U.K. Weekend car? That rear end is just mmm mmm mmm. Parts prices ok? Apart from the roof any major issues?Those that haven't, just make sure the drains are kept clear and you will be fine. There are some members on the Z4 forum who do the work for a very competitive price incase the worst does happen.
For the money they are great cars and I really like mine.
HustleRussell said:
Wait, why no Boxster?
I've had porsches... 924, 924 turbo, 944.... never had a problem, but fancy something different and a little cheaper to maintain... the crank seal? Seems a worry on early cars that are most likely in my price range and the first gen looks a little dated to me.They are phenomenal cars though, just not for me
Trevor555 said:
I've only owned a TT so can't comment on the others.
A V6 model Mk1 is a rare beast, most are DSG.
If you're after one that'll hold it's value then I'd recommend a Mk1 225 with low mileage.
They're down to about 5k nowadays for low mileage.
There can be a fair bit wrong with them though, so take an expert with you when you buy.
Z4 coupe is a good shout but a bit over you're budget I think.
You think a 225 over a v6 for residual? Interesting.... The sport looks beyond reach unfortunately....I've heard that the turbo can have cam belt issues, suspension and dsg disintergrate.... what else is wrong?A V6 model Mk1 is a rare beast, most are DSG.
If you're after one that'll hold it's value then I'd recommend a Mk1 225 with low mileage.
They're down to about 5k nowadays for low mileage.
There can be a fair bit wrong with them though, so take an expert with you when you buy.
Z4 coupe is a good shout but a bit over you're budget I think.
I’ve driven the R32 and it’s a great fast golf .. but it’s a golf
I’ve no experience of the 350z so I’ll pass on that one
The TT is lovely looking but is a Golf in drag . The V6 in nose heavy and lots are autos which don’t do it for me as a sports car
The 225 or the rare sport version are the ones to have IMO. But possibly the sports are out of your price range
Before I bought a toy it was a toss up between a TT and a Z4 and I looked at lots of both
There seemed to be lots of ropey shagged TT’s but generally the Zeds were in better condition
I settled on the Zed because it’s a straight six rear wheel drive proper roadster
The 3.0Si should just be in your budget and offers a great balance of performance v value
The 265Bhp engine is a peach
But any of the 6 cylinder models would be good .. I’d avoid the 4 cylinder 2.0 though
The 06 on facelift models had some nice upgrades and a few issues sorted over the earlier ones
Modern classic insurance can be had on them
and it’s one of the few Sports cars that don’t attract the £540 road tax .. it costs £305 mpg is good as well with 25-35 attainable depending how you drive
Don’t be worried about the hood ., it’s very robust and if the motor fails it can be fixed and relocated very reasonably
Build quality and reliability is very good
As with any old car don’t get hung up on mileage but buy on condition and history
There’s also a good community with lots of advice in the online forums
I’ve no experience of the 350z so I’ll pass on that one
The TT is lovely looking but is a Golf in drag . The V6 in nose heavy and lots are autos which don’t do it for me as a sports car
The 225 or the rare sport version are the ones to have IMO. But possibly the sports are out of your price range
Before I bought a toy it was a toss up between a TT and a Z4 and I looked at lots of both
There seemed to be lots of ropey shagged TT’s but generally the Zeds were in better condition
I settled on the Zed because it’s a straight six rear wheel drive proper roadster
The 3.0Si should just be in your budget and offers a great balance of performance v value
The 265Bhp engine is a peach
But any of the 6 cylinder models would be good .. I’d avoid the 4 cylinder 2.0 though
The 06 on facelift models had some nice upgrades and a few issues sorted over the earlier ones
Modern classic insurance can be had on them
and it’s one of the few Sports cars that don’t attract the £540 road tax .. it costs £305 mpg is good as well with 25-35 attainable depending how you drive
Don’t be worried about the hood ., it’s very robust and if the motor fails it can be fixed and relocated very reasonably
Build quality and reliability is very good
As with any old car don’t get hung up on mileage but buy on condition and history
There’s also a good community with lots of advice in the online forums
Having owned a 350z, a Z4 3.0 and a few TT (225 models) I would suggest you look at the BMW's and include the 130i and 335i on your list (and the 3.0i Z4 hatch which looks great value).
The 350z is not the car it should have been and is nothing to look forward to driving, when I got my 350z I was hoping it would be a nice mix of 200 SX and 2.8i Capri and 944 but was nothing like as much fun as any of the older cars.
Same with the TT (for different reasons its not fun to drive but yes its very nice to sit in) whereas the BMW models are great to drive and give you lots of options in terms of spec/combination and are genuinely good fun in 6 cylinder manual form.
The older TT 3.2 V6 are 99% auto's so you may struggle to get a manual one (special order I think) avoid the auto unless its had a recent DSG rebuild with documented proof of work done. A TT is not much fun once you start to push on, past 8ths and its got nothing to give (sold one last year with 280 bhp it was fast but there was no fun to be had for the driver, terrible un-compliant suspension, wooden steering with very little feel of whats going on eg when you start to lose grip).
A 130i manual with small wheels can be a lot of fun, as can a 335i manual with sports seats and ideally the 17" wheels and non run-flats.
The 350z is not the car it should have been and is nothing to look forward to driving, when I got my 350z I was hoping it would be a nice mix of 200 SX and 2.8i Capri and 944 but was nothing like as much fun as any of the older cars.
Same with the TT (for different reasons its not fun to drive but yes its very nice to sit in) whereas the BMW models are great to drive and give you lots of options in terms of spec/combination and are genuinely good fun in 6 cylinder manual form.
The older TT 3.2 V6 are 99% auto's so you may struggle to get a manual one (special order I think) avoid the auto unless its had a recent DSG rebuild with documented proof of work done. A TT is not much fun once you start to push on, past 8ths and its got nothing to give (sold one last year with 280 bhp it was fast but there was no fun to be had for the driver, terrible un-compliant suspension, wooden steering with very little feel of whats going on eg when you start to lose grip).
A 130i manual with small wheels can be a lot of fun, as can a 335i manual with sports seats and ideally the 17" wheels and non run-flats.
I have a mk1tt 3.2. I'm 6ft,have size 12 feet and 33inch legs. I don't have to have the seat all the way back, and find it comfy. my 2 kids fit in the back (6 and 4) but have to move my seat forward another click, which is fine, but makes getting in a bit harder.
Drive wise its great, rapid, feel nice to drive, nice place to be, feels more of an occasion than the 225. I don't notice the supposed "heavy steering" that people who have never driven both speak of, but its not a sports car.
TT's are about as cheap as they're going to get right now i reckon, its a love it or hate it style.
Golf R32 holds a lot more value and practicality but also attracts a certain type of owner sadly.
Drive wise its great, rapid, feel nice to drive, nice place to be, feels more of an occasion than the 225. I don't notice the supposed "heavy steering" that people who have never driven both speak of, but its not a sports car.
TT's are about as cheap as they're going to get right now i reckon, its a love it or hate it style.
Golf R32 holds a lot more value and practicality but also attracts a certain type of owner sadly.
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