This is not another 350Z vs. RX8 thread. I was just intriuged when a stumbled across a picture of the concet version of the 350Z. I am not a big fan of the current styling, but I think it is alright. The concept seems to be more raked back and sleaker. The production model lost the edge the concept car had. I even like the grill better, though some may think it looks a little too much like it has an orange in its mouth. I'll post the pictures and let you decide.

Concept

http://www.hiddencar.com/wallpaper/image/2000_nissan_z-1024x768.jpg

Production

http://www.velocityphotos.com/images/stk/2003/ns2003350z02.jpg

Isn't that the way of the (auto) world.

I agree with you, I liked the concept better on the 350Z than the production model (overall I still perfer the styling of the G35 coupe better) but take a look at the concept Chrysler Crossfire and compare it to the production images --- IMHO I again would choose the concept over it's production model!

Of course, the only exception is (our beloved) RX-8!

:D

I much prefere the final production version (but I really do miss the side lights on the side mirrors) to the RX-8 concept show car - but again (I might be the only one here) IMHO the RX-Evolve "looked" better - with the front end and the rear wrap-around window which had more of a fastback angle that I really loved!

;)

Still all in all, I can't wait for the RX-8 to arrive!

The production version of the RX8 is the best looking one IMHO. It is more aggressive and muscular looking. The evolve was a little to bubbly for me.

Originally posted by cueball1029
The production version of the RX8 is the best looking one IMHO. It is more aggressive and muscular looking. The evolve was a little to bubbly for me. I remember when the production version came out a lot of us were complaining about the fat mirrors. The look has definitly grown on me. I now find the mirors to be the perfect look for the 8.

actually, i loved the Red preproduction (was it the Concept RX-8??) with the side marker (and sleeker) mirrors, with teh louvers in the hood... *sigh of euphoria*

but overall, other than those exceptions, there is nothing on the exterior that changed in a way i didn't like... the lastest incarnation is smooth, muscular, and in-yo-face... i love it.

Originally posted by wakeech
... louvers in the hood... *sigh of euphoria*


Oh yeah, I forgot about those! I do miss them too.

Maybe they will come back as a Mazdaspeed or aftermarket item ...

:)

Originally posted by wakeech
actually, i loved the Red preproduction (was it the Concept RX-8??) with the side marker (and sleeker) mirrors, with teh louvers in the hood... *sigh of euphoria*

but overall, other than those exceptions, there is nothing on the exterior that changed in a way i didn't like... the lastest incarnation is smooth, muscular, and in-yo-face... i love it.
Do you remember the mesh seats? Those were kickass looking and must have bean really lite. Not to mention the silver center tunnel and and the 12000 RPM tach and 220 MPH speedo.

Originally posted by bwayout


Oh yeah, I forgot about those! I do miss them too.

Maybe they will come back as a Mazdaspeed or aftermarket item ...

:)

i still want my louvered hood!!! first thing i will look for on the aftermarket

The much beloved louvered hood for those who are unsure about what it is.