goodbye RX-8 hello Z
10-17-2003, 12:04 AM
#76
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2002
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Elara
- I have no idea where you got the 5 minute warm up and cool down for the renesis, but that's completely not true. It's just like any other car- start it up and go, stop and turn it off. I don't know who told you that, but they were full of it. It's rumors like that that are going to give this car a bad reputation.
- I have no idea where you got the 5 minute warm up and cool down for the renesis, but that's completely not true. It's just like any other car- start it up and go, stop and turn it off. I don't know who told you that, but they were full of it. It's rumors like that that are going to give this car a bad reputation.
Last edited by 3dobuzz; 10-17-2003 at 12:30 AM.
10-17-2003, 01:01 AM
#77
Pure Gold
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: Bucks County, PA
Posts: 763
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Elara
Pelucidor, you don't do it every time you start the car and drive it, do you?
Pelucidor, you don't do it every time you start the car and drive it, do you?
Similarly I used to check the oil every two fillups until I saw the oil consumption pattern for my particular car and driving style - about 1 quart every 1200 miles. Now I just check the oil every 1000 miles or so.
10-17-2003, 01:12 AM
#78
FX8TED on my RX-8
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: San Antonio
Posts: 815
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
The one time I had a hard time turning the engine over (cranked it for about 3-4 seconds), the engine was completely warmed up - I had just driven a spirited 10 miles. That being said, If I'm washing my car, I'll pull it out of the garage and shut it off without the warmup, but after I'm done washing it I always take it for a 5-minute drive on some nearby back roads. I flooded my RX-7 real bad once after pulling it in after a car wash, and it was NOT FUN getting it started again. I'd rather just be safe with the 8, because the plugs look a little harder to get to 
.
.
10-17-2003, 11:16 AM
#80
Registered User
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Ottawa, Canada
Posts: 206
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
My Z test drive
I don't post here much anymore after getting shafted twice by Mazda dealerships trying to purchase an initial shipment RX-8. I'm pretty disgruntled at how the release and ultimate design of this car was handled. In hind sight, I'm so glad I didn't succeed in purchasing considering the HP and mileage issues. While maybe not a big deal to some, I felt there wasn't enough grunt to justify the lack of fuel efficiency. Before I get flamed, note that I really like(ed) the RX-8. IMO, exterior styling and practicality of the 4 seats rocked. However, for a $50K (Cdn with taxes) there was not enough "sport" and too many required aftermarket upgrades (body roll and power) to justify it's cost.
Yesterday, I saw a used 350Z for sale with the Track Pack. I decided to take the 350Z *off* my list by giving it a test drive. I really didn't care for the exterior styling, the back is too long and looks like it was stuck in a plunger or something, and the tail lights are a little too long and funky for my tastes. In the flesh though, the Orange paint (which I love starting on the Volvos) with the orange Brembo calipers matched really well. There was also a faint orange tint in the cloth seats. The car is chunky but with the 18" rims and subtle rear spoiler, it looked surprisingly nice from all angles. The interior was even more of a surprise. Seats where much more bolstered and firm than the RX-8 cloth. I also like the adjustments more. I found the RX-8 seat had too much lift at the back for rear passengers feet I assume. The Z's center console was not bad, IMO better than the RX-8's multi texture theme (piano textured circle design really doesn't appeal to me). Probably the neatest feature is the tilting gauge console and steering wheel. The package is so small and makes the rest of the dash feel quite open.
Now the ride. First the Brembo brakes rocked! Even better than the RX-8 which are shocking themselves. The Brembo pedal was very firm and informative (I had an aftermaket AP brake kit on my FD - I love brakes). The motor was *so* flexible. I could easily do 50kph in 5th or cruise 120kph in 6th at 2500 and pass without downshifting. I'm not a torque freak, but it was certainly an eye opener how nice it is. Power in the mid range was very impressive, lots of grunt (and potential - there's a 300 RWHP Z with basic bolt-ons and cams). Honestly, I could see immediatly why the 180 RWHP RX-8 felt so tame when driving the 230 RWHP Z. For so little curb weight difference (150lbs?), that's a lot of difference in power and I'm not even talking about the torque. Suspension was the other surprise, while firm, it wasn't harsh. Body roll was much more controlled than the 8.
Having owned a 12 second FD for many years, I can say the the Z is the first car I've driven since the FD which invokes that sense of excitement. It's a car which requires very little aftermarket performance parts to suit my needs. For those who haven't driven one, go see it in the flesh. They are better looking than in the pics, and when driven hard they are very rewarding. I was once a doubter but now I have to say the Z is on the top of my list. I will most likely get flamed for this review, but note that I was a massive RX-8 fan, I even leased my Protege to bridge the gap from my FD to the RX-8. I've driven both impartially, and both have their advantages. But when it comes to a "sports" car, the Z offers more yet with surprising civility.
Yesterday, I saw a used 350Z for sale with the Track Pack. I decided to take the 350Z *off* my list by giving it a test drive. I really didn't care for the exterior styling, the back is too long and looks like it was stuck in a plunger or something, and the tail lights are a little too long and funky for my tastes. In the flesh though, the Orange paint (which I love starting on the Volvos) with the orange Brembo calipers matched really well. There was also a faint orange tint in the cloth seats. The car is chunky but with the 18" rims and subtle rear spoiler, it looked surprisingly nice from all angles. The interior was even more of a surprise. Seats where much more bolstered and firm than the RX-8 cloth. I also like the adjustments more. I found the RX-8 seat had too much lift at the back for rear passengers feet I assume. The Z's center console was not bad, IMO better than the RX-8's multi texture theme (piano textured circle design really doesn't appeal to me). Probably the neatest feature is the tilting gauge console and steering wheel. The package is so small and makes the rest of the dash feel quite open.
Now the ride. First the Brembo brakes rocked! Even better than the RX-8 which are shocking themselves. The Brembo pedal was very firm and informative (I had an aftermaket AP brake kit on my FD - I love brakes). The motor was *so* flexible. I could easily do 50kph in 5th or cruise 120kph in 6th at 2500 and pass without downshifting. I'm not a torque freak, but it was certainly an eye opener how nice it is. Power in the mid range was very impressive, lots of grunt (and potential - there's a 300 RWHP Z with basic bolt-ons and cams). Honestly, I could see immediatly why the 180 RWHP RX-8 felt so tame when driving the 230 RWHP Z. For so little curb weight difference (150lbs?), that's a lot of difference in power and I'm not even talking about the torque. Suspension was the other surprise, while firm, it wasn't harsh. Body roll was much more controlled than the 8.
Having owned a 12 second FD for many years, I can say the the Z is the first car I've driven since the FD which invokes that sense of excitement. It's a car which requires very little aftermarket performance parts to suit my needs. For those who haven't driven one, go see it in the flesh. They are better looking than in the pics, and when driven hard they are very rewarding. I was once a doubter but now I have to say the Z is on the top of my list. I will most likely get flamed for this review, but note that I was a massive RX-8 fan, I even leased my Protege to bridge the gap from my FD to the RX-8. I've driven both impartially, and both have their advantages. But when it comes to a "sports" car, the Z offers more yet with surprising civility.
Last edited by FritzMan; 10-17-2003 at 11:23 AM.
10-17-2003, 02:00 PM
#82
Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2003
Posts: 206
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Re: My Z test drive
Originally posted by FritzMan
I don't post here much anymore after getting shafted twice by Mazda dealerships trying to purchase an initial shipment RX-8. I'm pretty disgruntled at how the release and ultimate design of this car was handled. In hind sight, I'm so glad I didn't succeed in purchasing considering the HP and mileage issues. While maybe not a big deal to some, I felt there wasn't enough grunt to justify the lack of fuel efficiency. Before I get flamed, note that I really like(ed) the RX-8. IMO, exterior styling and practicality of the 4 seats rocked. However, for a $50K (Cdn with taxes) there was not enough "sport" and too many required aftermarket upgrades (body roll and power) to justify it's cost.
Yesterday, I saw a used 350Z for sale with the Track Pack. I decided to take the 350Z *off* my list by giving it a test drive. I really didn't care for the exterior styling, the back is too long and looks like it was stuck in a plunger or something, and the tail lights are a little too long and funky for my tastes. In the flesh though, the Orange paint (which I love starting on the Volvos) with the orange Brembo calipers matched really well. There was also a faint orange tint in the cloth seats. The car is chunky but with the 18" rims and subtle rear spoiler, it looked surprisingly nice from all angles. The interior was even more of a surprise. Seats where much more bolstered and firm than the RX-8 cloth. I also like the adjustments more. I found the RX-8 seat had too much lift at the back for rear passengers feet I assume. The Z's center console was not bad, IMO better than the RX-8's multi texture theme (piano textured circle design really doesn't appeal to me). Probably the neatest feature is the tilting gauge console and steering wheel. The package is so small and makes the rest of the dash feel quite open.
Now the ride. First the Brembo brakes rocked! Even better than the RX-8 which are shocking themselves. The Brembo pedal was very firm and informative (I had an aftermaket AP brake kit on my FD - I love brakes). The motor was *so* flexible. I could easily do 50kph in 5th or cruise 120kph in 6th at 2500 and pass without downshifting. I'm not a torque freak, but it was certainly an eye opener how nice it is. Power in the mid range was very impressive, lots of grunt (and potential - there's a 300 RWHP Z with basic bolt-ons and cams). Honestly, I could see immediatly why the 180 RWHP RX-8 felt so tame when driving the 230 RWHP Z. For so little curb weight difference (150lbs?), that's a lot of difference in power and I'm not even talking about the torque. Suspension was the other surprise, while firm, it wasn't harsh. Body roll was much more controlled than the 8.
Having owned a 12 second FD for many years, I can say the the Z is the first car I've driven since the FD which invokes that sense of excitement. It's a car which requires very little aftermarket performance parts to suit my needs. For those who haven't driven one, go see it in the flesh. They are better looking than in the pics, and when driven hard they are very rewarding. I was once a doubter but now I have to say the Z is on the top of my list. I will most likely get flamed for this review, but note that I was a massive RX-8 fan, I even leased my Protege to bridge the gap from my FD to the RX-8. I've driven both impartially, and both have their advantages. But when it comes to a "sports" car, the Z offers more yet with surprising civility.
I don't post here much anymore after getting shafted twice by Mazda dealerships trying to purchase an initial shipment RX-8. I'm pretty disgruntled at how the release and ultimate design of this car was handled. In hind sight, I'm so glad I didn't succeed in purchasing considering the HP and mileage issues. While maybe not a big deal to some, I felt there wasn't enough grunt to justify the lack of fuel efficiency. Before I get flamed, note that I really like(ed) the RX-8. IMO, exterior styling and practicality of the 4 seats rocked. However, for a $50K (Cdn with taxes) there was not enough "sport" and too many required aftermarket upgrades (body roll and power) to justify it's cost.
Yesterday, I saw a used 350Z for sale with the Track Pack. I decided to take the 350Z *off* my list by giving it a test drive. I really didn't care for the exterior styling, the back is too long and looks like it was stuck in a plunger or something, and the tail lights are a little too long and funky for my tastes. In the flesh though, the Orange paint (which I love starting on the Volvos) with the orange Brembo calipers matched really well. There was also a faint orange tint in the cloth seats. The car is chunky but with the 18" rims and subtle rear spoiler, it looked surprisingly nice from all angles. The interior was even more of a surprise. Seats where much more bolstered and firm than the RX-8 cloth. I also like the adjustments more. I found the RX-8 seat had too much lift at the back for rear passengers feet I assume. The Z's center console was not bad, IMO better than the RX-8's multi texture theme (piano textured circle design really doesn't appeal to me). Probably the neatest feature is the tilting gauge console and steering wheel. The package is so small and makes the rest of the dash feel quite open.
Now the ride. First the Brembo brakes rocked! Even better than the RX-8 which are shocking themselves. The Brembo pedal was very firm and informative (I had an aftermaket AP brake kit on my FD - I love brakes). The motor was *so* flexible. I could easily do 50kph in 5th or cruise 120kph in 6th at 2500 and pass without downshifting. I'm not a torque freak, but it was certainly an eye opener how nice it is. Power in the mid range was very impressive, lots of grunt (and potential - there's a 300 RWHP Z with basic bolt-ons and cams). Honestly, I could see immediatly why the 180 RWHP RX-8 felt so tame when driving the 230 RWHP Z. For so little curb weight difference (150lbs?), that's a lot of difference in power and I'm not even talking about the torque. Suspension was the other surprise, while firm, it wasn't harsh. Body roll was much more controlled than the 8.
Having owned a 12 second FD for many years, I can say the the Z is the first car I've driven since the FD which invokes that sense of excitement. It's a car which requires very little aftermarket performance parts to suit my needs. For those who haven't driven one, go see it in the flesh. They are better looking than in the pics, and when driven hard they are very rewarding. I was once a doubter but now I have to say the Z is on the top of my list. I will most likely get flamed for this review, but note that I was a massive RX-8 fan, I even leased my Protege to bridge the gap from my FD to the RX-8. I've driven both impartially, and both have their advantages. But when it comes to a "sports" car, the Z offers more yet with surprising civility.
10-17-2003, 04:42 PM
#83
Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2003
Location: Spring
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Elara
Yeah, that's why I got all hyper about this. Stupid rumors are going to kill this car if we don't squash them asap
. It's just like everything else, though- people mistrust what they don't understand. I just really hope this doesn't happen with the 8, because I really love this car.
Skyline Maniac, I'm just going to ignore what you wrote because it makes no sense.
Yeah, that's why I got all hyper about this. Stupid rumors are going to kill this car if we don't squash them asap
. It's just like everything else, though- people mistrust what they don't understand. I just really hope this doesn't happen with the 8, because I really love this car.Skyline Maniac, I'm just going to ignore what you wrote because it makes no sense.
I think you are missing my point. I get yours... you are saying that you do not have to go out, start the car and WAIT to drive. That is the rumor that I think you want to squash (it is one I would not belive anyhow)
BUT, if a car floods when you go out and move it out of the garage to do some work etc, this is a problem. It might not happen very often, but I have not heard of it happening to ANY of the new piston car. Yes, back with carbs this could happen, but today?
So this is the concern to me, jump in the car, drive to the market (not 5 minutes away) go get something and then can not start the car. I still might buy this car as it seems there are a lot of good things about it, but there are some bad.
10-17-2003, 10:53 PM
#85
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2002
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Re: Re: My Z test drive
Originally posted by zthang
I know my opinion doesn't count for much on this board, and as a Z owner I may seemed biased, but i think thats a great review....almost exact same point of view I have. I know what you mean, the RX-8 is a great car, but the Z just appealed more to me. Welcome to the Z club...on the RX-8 board...hahaha
I know my opinion doesn't count for much on this board, and as a Z owner I may seemed biased, but i think thats a great review....almost exact same point of view I have. I know what you mean, the RX-8 is a great car, but the Z just appealed more to me. Welcome to the Z club...on the RX-8 board...hahaha
. Are there any online forums for the Z and G35 out there? I followed the RX-8 for 18 months...before finally buying a G35...I think much of the decision had to do with getting older (late thirties...) and wanting to enjoy a litttle more comfort. If I had the bucks and lots more garage space, I would have bought both the RX-8 and G35.
10-18-2003, 05:59 PM
#86
Registered User
Join Date: Aug 2003
Posts: 206
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Re: Re: Re: My Z test drive
Originally posted by 3dobuzz
You know it. RX8Club.com is a great online forum . Are there any online forums for the Z and G35 out there? I followed the RX-8 for 18 months...before finally buying a G35...I think much of the decision had to do with getting older (late thirties...) and wanting to enjoy a litttle more comfort. If I had the bucks and lots more garage space, I would have bought both the RX-8 and G35.
You know it. RX8Club.com is a great online forum
. Are there any online forums for the Z and G35 out there? I followed the RX-8 for 18 months...before finally buying a G35...I think much of the decision had to do with getting older (late thirties...) and wanting to enjoy a litttle more comfort. If I had the bucks and lots more garage space, I would have bought both the RX-8 and G35.
10-18-2003, 07:35 PM
#88
They Come At Night
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Nashville, TN
Posts: 486
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I like the Z however, It wasn't for me. It was in my field of choices, but the RX-8 was so much sexier. IMHO, I prefer the smooth acceleration of the 8 vs. the torque jerk of the Z.
11-04-2003, 09:23 PM
#89
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Oakland, NJ
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Dude...
RX-8 hp is irrelevant. Even with 250hp, it never woud have been able to outrun a 287hp Z that also has a huge tprque advantage...
RX-8's appeal to me comes from it's strengths across a variety of areas:
>Styling -- I loved it the moment I saw it and had to have it. For me, the Z's styling was a HUGE disappointment. 300ZX from early '90s is still a hot car today, but the new Z's droopy tail, and cheap interior really turned me off.
>Innovative design and packaging -- tons of space for a sports car, great interior design
>Quality of materials and detailing -- spend some time with the RX-8 and you can see how much thought went into every portion of the car. Has anyone seen tailights so well trimmed out on any car at any price? I work for PAG NA (Jag, LR, Aston Martin) and I'd have to say no!
>Value -- this car blows away my 2000 M Roadster -- better handling, better quality, better fit and finish at price that's $15k cheaper! BTW, my M Roadter will destroy a Z...
The Z has excellent handling and acceleration and is also a great value -- but wouldn't everyone rather have the same performance in the far more attractive G35 Coupe?
RX-8's appeal to me comes from it's strengths across a variety of areas:
>Styling -- I loved it the moment I saw it and had to have it. For me, the Z's styling was a HUGE disappointment. 300ZX from early '90s is still a hot car today, but the new Z's droopy tail, and cheap interior really turned me off.
>Innovative design and packaging -- tons of space for a sports car, great interior design
>Quality of materials and detailing -- spend some time with the RX-8 and you can see how much thought went into every portion of the car. Has anyone seen tailights so well trimmed out on any car at any price? I work for PAG NA (Jag, LR, Aston Martin) and I'd have to say no!
>Value -- this car blows away my 2000 M Roadster -- better handling, better quality, better fit and finish at price that's $15k cheaper! BTW, my M Roadter will destroy a Z...
The Z has excellent handling and acceleration and is also a great value -- but wouldn't everyone rather have the same performance in the far more attractive G35 Coupe?
11-04-2003, 11:24 PM
#90
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Carson City, Nevada
Posts: 10
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I am a little surprised at how many people post here that don't even own or even want an RX-8. This is an RX-8 forum is it not? No car is perfect for everyone. It is a personal choice.
As for the Z and RX-8 horsepower-wise, ask the guy driving his new Z car that I just smoked going from Carson City to Lake Tahoe. Elevation at start is 5000 ft, at the lake it is 7400 ft and plenty of nice twisties. Approx 20 miles. My 8 wasn't even breathing hard!
As for the Z and RX-8 horsepower-wise, ask the guy driving his new Z car that I just smoked going from Carson City to Lake Tahoe. Elevation at start is 5000 ft, at the lake it is 7400 ft and plenty of nice twisties. Approx 20 miles. My 8 wasn't even breathing hard!
11-16-2003, 06:31 AM
#94
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Astor
I like the Z however, It wasn't for me. It was in my field of choices, but the RX-8 was so much sexier. IMHO, I prefer the smooth acceleration of the 8 vs. the torque jerk of the Z.
I like the Z however, It wasn't for me. It was in my field of choices, but the RX-8 was so much sexier. IMHO, I prefer the smooth acceleration of the 8 vs. the torque jerk of the Z.
Something the RX8 lacks unfortunately. Not a bad lookin car. A little odd, but pretty enough.
11-16-2003, 06:33 AM
#95
Registered User
Join Date: Nov 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Re: Re: Re: Re: My Z test drive
Originally posted by zthang
Check out g35driver.com, my350z.com, 350zmotoring.com, 350zfrenzy.com, zcar.com theres a ton...
Check out g35driver.com, my350z.com, 350zmotoring.com, 350zfrenzy.com, zcar.com theres a ton...
11-16-2003, 09:44 PM
#96
no pistons!
Join Date: May 2003
Location: ORANGE COUNTY, CA
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
ok... I just skipped about 50% of the BS in this thread ... back and forth Z - RX8... whats the big deal?
I have an RX8 and I still love the Z? Is that a crime to like to things? The Z is still a very powerful and respectable car. Sure I used it to compare it before I bought the RX8, however speed was not the only factor. Evo 8 is also a great car. But the RX8 aint all that you guys make it out to be. Believe me there are faster cars and others may think that. Respect is all you guys should be giving to another import enthusiast.
Congrats on the 350Z I am sure you will be satisfied with your decision!
I have an RX8 and I still love the Z? Is that a crime to like to things? The Z is still a very powerful and respectable car. Sure I used it to compare it before I bought the RX8, however speed was not the only factor. Evo 8 is also a great car. But the RX8 aint all that you guys make it out to be. Believe me there are faster cars and others may think that. Respect is all you guys should be giving to another import enthusiast.
Congrats on the 350Z I am sure you will be satisfied with your decision!
11-17-2003, 01:39 AM
#97
100% Italian
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: orange,ca
Posts: 9,422
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally posted by Efini 8
Respect is all you guys should be giving to another import enthusiast.
Respect is all you guys should be giving to another import enthusiast.
I dont understand the whole chevy vs ford thing.
Thats why I love imports
11-20-2003, 12:47 PM
#98
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2003
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
...
i just read this thread.. and i cant believe how rude and mean people are on this thread... just because he is letting go the rx8 and bought the z....doesnt mean you have to flame the guy..in the 1st and 2nd page i saw replies like..that is ugly.. and you should of got the g35c instead.. and things like that... what does any of that have to do with his new car?...i mean seriously.. this is why i dont post anything on this site.. i love the rx8 and own a 350z...but damn can ya keep the rudeness to yourself...
11-23-2003, 10:54 PM
#99
adkdai8e dkadloi98
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 469
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Im interested in a new car to accompany my 94 Rx-7. The 3 cars I am considering are the s2000, Rx-8 and 350Z. I really feel im being impartial, so here is my perspective. My top two considerations are the rx and the 350.
Interms of looks, the front end of the rx-8 is amazing, the 350Z is boring, bland lacks any distinguishing characteristics. From the back the 350Z looks a bit porky IMHO, but it looks nice. The rx8 looks a bit high, but also nice. From the side on most angles the 350Z is better looking.
From the interior point of view while I'm not offended by the 350Z, im hardly inspired. No question the Rx-8's interior is 100 times better. Although I thought the netted seats were cool on the Z...I LOVE the rx8 seats.
So to sum it up, the rx8 looks better. Keep in mind I think the Z looks nice. I drove a 350Z today and to be quite honest I am amazed at how quiet and comforitable it was. This would be quite a forgiving commuter. Hitting the gas petal from idle I was very impressed how fast it initially took off. But it ran out of breath just as fast. being used to my 7 continuing to pull hard as hell up to 8000 rpm, the 350Z was weak after 4000.
Handling was acceptable, but it would be the last car I would pick to try and win a handling contest. The body roll was very evident as was the fact that the car needs a major diet program.
I have not driven the rx-8 to compare yet, but the advantage I can see with the Z is the torque. It was quite nice.
If I was forced to choose between the two, I would drive the Rx-8 and see which one I like best. When the time comes I will do that, but as it stands with all the problems I am seeing with the rx-8 I'm leaning toward the Z. I hope the gas mileage issue gets resolved and the engine thing is straighten out.
Just again to point out I'm keeping my 94 RX-7, it would rape a Z in any catagory (even in stock form), but for a commuter car It could be fun. I'm hoping I get the -8-, but the Z WAS fun to drive.
Interms of looks, the front end of the rx-8 is amazing, the 350Z is boring, bland lacks any distinguishing characteristics. From the back the 350Z looks a bit porky IMHO, but it looks nice. The rx8 looks a bit high, but also nice. From the side on most angles the 350Z is better looking.
From the interior point of view while I'm not offended by the 350Z, im hardly inspired. No question the Rx-8's interior is 100 times better. Although I thought the netted seats were cool on the Z...I LOVE the rx8 seats.
So to sum it up, the rx8 looks better. Keep in mind I think the Z looks nice. I drove a 350Z today and to be quite honest I am amazed at how quiet and comforitable it was. This would be quite a forgiving commuter. Hitting the gas petal from idle I was very impressed how fast it initially took off. But it ran out of breath just as fast. being used to my 7 continuing to pull hard as hell up to 8000 rpm, the 350Z was weak after 4000.
Handling was acceptable, but it would be the last car I would pick to try and win a handling contest. The body roll was very evident as was the fact that the car needs a major diet program.
I have not driven the rx-8 to compare yet, but the advantage I can see with the Z is the torque. It was quite nice.
If I was forced to choose between the two, I would drive the Rx-8 and see which one I like best. When the time comes I will do that, but as it stands with all the problems I am seeing with the rx-8 I'm leaning toward the Z. I hope the gas mileage issue gets resolved and the engine thing is straighten out.
Just again to point out I'm keeping my 94 RX-7, it would rape a Z in any catagory (even in stock form), but for a commuter car It could be fun. I'm hoping I get the -8-, but the Z WAS fun to drive.
Last edited by zerobanger; 11-23-2003 at 10:56 PM.
11-25-2003, 09:04 PM
#100
no pistons!
Join Date: May 2003
Location: ORANGE COUNTY, CA
Posts: 434
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I do not know why people are actting so damn hostile on this board. You guys act like the RX8 is a damn ferrari or something. Well hate to break it to you, its a tight car and all, but its not the ****. This board turns me off, I rarely want to visit because of all the negativity and ******** on this board. In fact you really do not make me proud to be an owner if you guys are all haters and ****. Z is an awesome performing car and would beat the RX-8 in many performance oriented competitions, so dont hate, congradulate.