Used 2004 Nissan 350Z Convertible Consumer Reviews
Fun in the Sun!
I picked up my silver beauty while looking for a commute vehicle a few years back. In the market for a Honda Accord, I noticed her on the used car lot and suddenly had a desire to experience a convertible for the first time in my life. Over the ensuing 3 years, I've had many enjoyable experiences and a few bad ones. Overall, the positives far outweigh the negatives. At 12 years old, she still looks fresh and sharp; especially with the top down. Performance is acceptable. The 3.5 liter V-6 is responsive and the power delivery is smooth and satisfying. The exhaust note is a "love it or hate it" affair for most folks and fortunately for me, I have no issues with how the Z sounds. Sure it's sort of droney an does not sound like a V-8. But in reality, it's not supposed to sound like a Mustang and thank God it does not sound like a modified Civic. I drive 27 miles one way to work and I was slightly disappointed that 23 MPG is the best I can achieve. Around town, I'll get 18-19 MPG which is marginal. That said, I did not buy the Z for fuel economy and it's not a huge issue for me. I do find it odd that my 2015 Ram 1500 with a 5.7 V8 will actually knock down better highway mileage than the Z - but I guess that's the beauty of an 8-speed transmission. At 6'4", the interior is somewhat cramped - but I tend to prefer smaller vehicles - so it's not a problem for me. Just by looking at the car, it's obvious it's not going to be as roomy as a Honda Accord. The way I view it, if i wanted a roomier interior, I wouldn't have purchased the Z. The trunk is practically useless but the interior does offer several cubbies; some of which require seat manipulation to access. During my three years of ownership, I've had a few minor and one major issue. The driver's side door would not latch and required a new mechanism - which ended up being a lot more expensive than I anticipated. The remote fuel filler door actuator stopped working which required replacement. The driver's side power window broke which required replacement. And finally, the transmission needed to be rebuilt at 130,000 miles. I've had a few annoying minor issues which I have not yet addressed such as the storage compartment on the dash (I do not have navigation) is broken and will not open and the weather stripping on the outside of driver side window is loose. All in all, I expected some minor issues with a 100,000+ vehicle. The transmission issue was expensive but again, not unexpected for a high mileage vehicle. The engine still runs flawlessly and per my mechanic, seems to be in excellent shape. Compared to my '94 Mustang Cobra, the Z is rock-solid with no body roll and precise steering. I rarely push it to the limit, but the handling seems to be very adequate. I have had a few occasions where I lost control of the back end in wet conditions under fairly unremarkable conditions. In other words, I did not feel the loss of control was warranted based on the driving input. Ever since I've had those "scares" - I tend to pay very close attention in the rain. There are a few days per year when, despite the lack of convenience, poor fuel economy and added weight - owning a convertible is a magical experience. When the weather is perfect and the sun is shining brightly... It's for those type of days that make inconveniences of owning a convertible totally worth it. My Z is a daily-driver and I'll likely replace her next year - but she'll remain in my garage as a weekend car. To say that I've been completely satisfied with my purchase would be an understatement. There are faster, better handling, more modern choices out there - but there is just something special about the Z that make me smile each time I take the wheel.
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Can't Stop Smiling!
Just purchased a 2004 cherry red 350z with black drop top and black leather w/only 19000 miles...I've read the other reviews and agree that it is such an enjoyable ride that you will find any excuse to drive it...and it is a head turner. This is like heaven on the eyes. I would put the design of this roadster up with any other sports car at any price...it's just that beautiful!
- Touring ConvertibleMSRP: $9,995113 mi away
- Touring ConvertibleMSRP: $13,988153 mi away
- Enthusiast CoupeMSRP: $9,799154 mi away
Little old ladys Z
I love my Z and people thinks it funny because I am 60 years young. Have to replace tires after 33,000 miles and can't rotate. Still tho car is a head turner or is it because granny is driving one and not them..Had BMW Z's but this car is much more fun to drive.
I am so sorry to see it go.
I finally died. At 120,000 miles, the needed repairs exceeded the value of the car twofold. Convertible top motors, $4,000. Driver's airbag $1,000. Engine oil leak, $1,500. Suspension $3,000. Trading it in was a deep sorrow.
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Awesome Vehicle
There are a couple of small annoying things about this car. When you close the top it rolls both windows down but doesn't roll them up automatically. Several times I've almost gotten out without closing them. The storage compartments are impossible to navigate while in the car! Having said that, this car is an absolute BLAST to drive! The wind deflector is awesome, I can drive with the top down on the interstate and have a normal conversation with my head set on my cell phone, the caller doesn't even notice I'm in a car! My hair doesn't blow, you can wear a hat going 90 with top down NO PROBLEM. Not that I go 90 mind you...
Great first convertible!
I was looking for my first convertible as a birthday present for myself and found this '04 with 41,500 miles, platinum with a navy blue top. No dents, no scratches, leather in good shape. Only problem was that the interior plastic seems notorious for looking pretty beat-up, especially around the interior door handles and the center console. Fortunately, my issue's were all on the center console. I took the center console apart (PIA), which took a lot of time and care and sprayed all of the black parts with flat black plastic paint (Home Depot) and it came out great. While I had the thing apart, I also installed a back-up camera (make sure your head unit will support this before you go through the trouble) which I got on line for $15. This is very helpful for backing up with the top up! This car is a hoot to drive and holds the road well with the Michellin Pilot Sports it's wearing. I am so glad I got the manual transmission as it is much more drivable than the automatics I tested. I have put a little over 4,000 miles on the car and am still really enjoying my toy, and can say the following about performance: The Z holds the road well with the above stated tires (45s up front and 75s rear) but has noticeable body roll. Maybe it's a convertible thing. It is quick but not as fast as it seems with the top down. With the right tires my Infiniti G37 will blow the doors off this car in a straight race, and possibly do so on a slalom course. With all its power, the Infiniti also beats the Z for mileage by a long shot. I realize I'm comparing apples and aardvarks but, there it is. That said, you just can't discount the "fun factor" of driving top down in this beautiful car on a winding road. To anyone looking for a fun second car, do your homework. You'll find better cars but I don't think you'll find a better value.
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Great Car Fun to drive
I loved this car. Owned it for 3 years and drove 70,000 miles. I sold it for just 3,000 less then I paid for it. I only had one mechanical issue with this car, it went into sleeper mode a few times. It was easy to fix with no out of pocket expense. this car was very fast handled great no complaints. I would love to own one again. By Gregory J Strzelecki
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It is what I wanted
The comfort, visibility and storage are all lacking. That said, it's a sports car! I expected what I got and I love it. I have had mine a month and I still love it. It is very difficult to get in and out of. You need to be in good shape. It goes like a rocket, it is probably the hottest car I have owned.
Beware
What a fun car! It goes fast, looks good and it attracts attention. However: 1. The paint is poor quality. Faded quickly and had a few "stains" that the dealer couldn't get out. 2. The brakes and rotors needed to be replace at 30k miles (mostly hiway and hardly used) My Lexus coupe had 130k on the original brakes and still had 40% left on the front when I got rid of it. 3. Electronics: 3a-The auto transmission stopped shifting after a heavy rain. 3b-The auto-up windows go back down rather than stay up. 3c-The airbag sensor went out. 4. Tire wear is only fair. You can expect only 25-30k if you drive the car easy. But, it sure is fun to drive!
Whata fun car to driv e
Never have riven a Corvette or any of the $40,000+ cars, but don't think they could be any more fun then this. The handling of the car is great-my only complain is that the convertible top is a single layer of canvas. My first car was a 1966 Pontiac LEmans Convertible and that also had a single layer of canvas-since 1980 I have owned 3 convertibles and they all have had a second layer of insulation-surprised that Nissan didnt realize this. Also just bought 4 Blizzak snow tires because if the car handles on snow anything like my 1986 RX-7, I will need them to keep from detroying the car.
A beautiful ride
A great bargain coupled with great looks and excellent performance. This is a great car if you want performance, but don't want to sacrifice a touring feel. Low end torque gives the car a punch as soon as you hit the gas. Plus, the resonant sound of the Z is beautiful! Definitely a head turner - be forwarned...if you've got good looks, the car only draws that much more attention. Don't be surprised if you gather a following! :)
ZGOZIP
Fun to drive, handles with little or no effort whether in a straight line or in the curves. The sunvisors rattle and the deck lid arm binds when closing, otherwise it is my dream car. Contemplating on the roadster. Nothing but thumbs up by the onlookers and the younger enthusiasts look for the speed. Easy to get caught up in the moment to drive the car, but know your limitations as you can get in over your head with this car very easily.
Excellent 350Z
This car has exceeded all of my expectations, the ride, comfort and interior room are all excellent. I am 6 feet tall and have plenty of room to spare. The only knocks are rearview mirror is located too close to the ceiling which does not allow a good view out of the back window, and I am not a fan of the tires, the 17" rims seem a little small when cornering.
Nissan 350Z Go For It!!!!
I liked this hot new roadster so much I traded in my 2001 Corvette Z06. Yes a bit of a drop in horse power from the Vette. But lower payments, cheaper insurance, better gas, cheaper DMV,outstanding six disc CD player, and gret looks!!!
My new hot car!
I have been driving "hot" sports cars for some time. My last two were a Toyota Supra (twin turbo) and a Corvette. I like this better from the "overall package" concept but do not feel it is as "quick off the line" as the other two. However that is a small item as it is not very often that I am put in a position where that feature is important. To sum up, I love the car!!
A real bargain
From the exhaust note, to the slick shifter this car has it all. (As long as you have just one kid).. Even the fuel mileage is impressive with an average of 22.3 mpg and I drive this car pretty hard.
Compare them all. You'll buy the Z.
We actually bought the 350Z Roadster for my wife as a daily driver. After comparing the others in this class, we found the Z to have the most interior room, power, standard equipment (Bose stereo, heated seats, variable traction control and cruise control), and the lowest sticker price. You can't beat a 287 hp, convertable! Did I mention only 3000 imported for the US market this year, and no scheduled maintenance for 100K miles. And at our local dealer, free oil changes for a year. Look and compare them all, afterwards you will buy the 350Z. This vehicle insured, with everything, for about a thousand a year.
Love my Z
Beautiful responsive automobile. Can take the full clover exit at speeds that would put all except the Z & Vette into the rail. Just crank the wheel and give it slight acceleration, pay attention though, ya gotta straighten the wheel out in short order at the end of the clover!!
Pleased with ZZZZZZ
I have owned this car for 14 months now with absolutely no problems. It is a second vehicle and does not get many miles. However, I look forward to each and every one. I do not know of any car in this price range with this much performance and eye appeal.
No one within ten grand can touch me
All of the reviews are correct. Great engine, good design, and a fine little vehicle for fun and top down days. I find myself hunting down Z-3's and Boxters and eating them up (legally of course) just because I can. Nissan put the money where it counts...in making it GO! 0-60 in a little under six. If you are concerned about visibility, put the top down.
Wow!
Decided to trade in a 60's muscle car for something newer that we weren't afraid to drive in weather & parking lots. Found this car by accident and never looked back. The acceleration takes your breath away and it sticks to the road like glue. And with the top down it's still a wonderful car just to get out and cruise under a star filled sky. I may have to look to Nissan for my family sedan now if it has any of the breeding of the Z.
If you want a car that turns heads...
I fell in love with this car the moment that I walked into the dealership. I looked at the Boxter S, Audi TT and Corvette but the 350Z was hands down, the best designed car out of all of them. I purchased my Z on 9/11/2003 and I haven't seen another Roadster on road in Cleveland yet. I know that I am going to hate the day that I do. It's fast! It's Beautiful! And it turns heads!
best car in the world
this car is great!! the first time i saw it i was like wow this has got to be a million $ car! i cant believe how cheap it is!! i love my car and i get so many compliments on it at high school!
PROBLEMS
I have had nothing but problems with my 350z. I've been through 2 transmissions now in only 10,000 miles. I have also had problems with my windows and my stereo. My z has been in the shop for 4weeks out of the 6 months I've owned it.
BEST DRIVING EXPERIENCE IN MY LIFE
I WORK FROM HOME AND TRAVEL 2000 MILES PER MONTH. I AM NEVER TIRED AFTER A ROAD TRIP. JUST LIKE RIDING IN COCKPIT OF AN AIRPLANE. I LOVE IT!
Looks great...drives great...
This car has one of the best looks on the road...even in Miami Beach it turns heads. For the money, nothing comes close- a joy to drive with its muscular response and tight handling-it even growls like a true sports car. I've had my 2004 for a year and a half without any problems- it still feels like a new car. It's a great value and truly fun to drive, even in rush hour traffic.
I LOVE MY CAR
THIS CAR IS AWESOME IT DRIVES GREAT AND IS TONS OF FUN. I HAVE HAD 3 BMW'S, 1 MERCEDES, 2 SAAB'S, A MINI COOPER, 2 ACURA'S, AND A PORSCHE. AND THIS TOPS THEM ALL BY FAR!!!!
Nissan has a winner!
We own two 350Z's -- 2003 Touring, and 2004 Enthusiast roadster -- fun cars! Best buy for the money! Roadster, with or without top down is a head turner.
Conv Z Review
Plain and simple, its worth every penny. You will have to pay a little more than MSRP, but again its still will be less than anything comparable.
awesome
All I know is this car is so cool. It will make all of your friends jealous. I love this car!
Road Noise a REAL PROBLEM!
I purchased my Z new in March of 2003. The dealership (Thopmson Nissan in Doylestown, PA) is the best in terms of service which is why I bought it there.The problem is inherent in the vehicle though. Ever since I bought it, I get so much excess road noise, from the car being inherently out of alignment, that it's just not as fun to drive as I thought it would be. In fact thousands of Z owners have the same opinion who have 2003 year models.
Great ride
Great car overall. However, a few gripes: Grinding driver window not repaired properly. A tweeter that came from the factory already blown. A loose footrest. Not what you'd expect from a $42K vehicle. A bit heavy for this segment. Still, for a car with this level of performance, it would be tough to beat 350Z's combo of power, handling, and price.
Obsessed
I just picked up my Z Raodster yesterday and I am in love with this car. It looks, feels and sounds like a true sports car should. It took my breath away!
350Z, The best performer on the lot
over all exellent car. A fast,sleek look gives the 350z a dominating look to any one who stares at it. Good handleing, nice smooth ride, and, pettal to the metal performance. this car is a lot better looking than the G35. this car is the best one on my lot!
A great car for the money
After looking at several cars, we were sold on the new 350Z once it came out in a convertible. It makes driving fun again! The ride is good and handling has been better than the reviews stated. The added cup holder is a good addition. The dashboard is well laid out. One one negative is viewing out the back and sides with the top up is difficult.
The best Z ever
Had the 6 speed manual coupe for 3 months then got roadster automatic. Both incredible in their own right. Hold the road like glue. Smooth powerful pick up from any speed. Awesome stereo sound even with top down. Great wind protection in roadster. Fun factor for both cars: 10+++
ROAD TRIP WITH NEW ROADSTER
On a 8,968 mile trip I found the following problems. At 3010 service engine light with code P1754 Desert Nissan Las Vegas said not to worry computer error and a fix is on the way. At 6990 miles the right front brake locked solid for 15 minutes in parking lot Wade Nissan in St George Utah cleaned and turned warped rotors no further problem at 8544 miles front tires started to feather changed toe in to 0.00 and flipped ties side to side. I still love this car even with the problem encounterd, it fun to drive.
My New Z
This is a great car! I love it! Just got it and got a lot of stares and looks! This is a lot of fun to drive and the performance is AWESOME!!
350Z Needs Twin Turbo
Great car, nothing like the older Turbo models though. Interior is nice, with sharp contemporary design. A bit difficult to get in and out of, don't buy one if you have a bad back.
Excellent Z
Great xar!
350Z
This car has definitly been the best sports car for this year. it has a very reasonable price and has a great miles/per. gallon. the body style is great and the 350Z is very comfortab;e and easy to drive.
350Z Impressive
Very enjoyable car! Lots of torque, makes it difficult for one to behave! Build quality is quite impressive - would consider getting another
Built correclly
Have been extremely satisfied with everything on this automobile. Only one small glitch found....fuel door sometimes sticks when opening it. Two or three pushes on release will open it. Will have it adjusted by dealer on first service.
I Love My New Ride
I test drove quite a few cars, and the z roadster sold it's self to me. It is sweet.
Omigod, this thing is great
Touring Roadster, automatic, leather - sets a new standard. Great comfort, feel&control. Instantaneous throttle response, awesome brakes & steering response. 18" wheels make the ride harsh, but instantaneous maneuverability. Impressive Japanese electronics, interior & ergonomics continues to impress.
WOW
This vehicle is amazing, fast, sporty, and head turning. Friends think its a $65,000.00 car and when you tell them the actual price there amazed.
Roadster
Car handles great, great power.
I love my new car:
This car is absolutly the best car to drive for the price and, the look is unparalleled.
Z Roadster is one fine ride!
This car is everything and more than what I expected. I have a long history with Nissan, but this is my first Z car and convertible. The power, ride, handling, and overall experience of this car is the best I've had of any vehicle I've ever owned (I've had Lexus, Toyota, Ford, Buick, Acura, Honda, Pontiac, Mazda, etc.). Ride is superb, body is rigid, and top-down motoring is a truly enjoyable experience due to excellent wind management, even on the interstate! If you even think you might want this car...go drive one. You'll leave the dealership with it. I did...traded my 02 Maxima SE 6 speed for it.
MY NEW 350Z
A LOT OF FUN. GREAT BUY FOR THE MONEY