Awesome pics they came out well.
Another Z owner chiming in here. I am on these forums because my girlfriend just got a CX-7 I get to drive sometimes. Impressed with it so far!
Anyway 350Z vs. S2000, of course you know which I chose. I test drove a 2.0L S2000 and as ZMonster mentioned it felt like a civic until I got it over 7000rpm. I felt that would just not be as enjoyable to drive on a regular basis as the Z. I do have some mild mods done to mine which really make the car sound the way I like it and a few little performance mods (Borla cat-back exhaust, JWT intake, JWT flywheel, JWT clutch, TopSpeed headers). These didn't cost an arm and a leg and probably got me a few tenths on the 60 times. I have yet to dyno to see what I am really getting. I always get compliments on how it sounds at the track too. I still get compliments on its looks after almost 3 years of ownership. It handles well on the track for a car with some weight (~3200lbs for the track model). The aftermarket mods are abundant. Forced induction can easily get you 100whp and up depending on how much $$$ you got and if you go super or turbo charger. I feel that the Z offers a better driving experience short of comparing the two head to head on a track at full tilt. The torque is really missing from the S2000 which is part of what is lacking in the experience. Not to mention the way it sounds at WOT. Its very addicting!
As for fit and finish I paid for the technology (aluminum V6, aluminum suspension, carbon fiber driveshaft etc etc) not leather. I got a 2004.5 track model which came with Rays/Volk 18" lightweight (18lbs) forged rims, brembo brakes and some aero bits. It has xenons the rear viscous LSD, stability control and all the electronics goodies. I would recommend going with a similar pacakge (not sure exactly what they have today) unless you are going to spend a lot of money modding. A big brake kit alone can be several thousand. I won't lie to you the S2000 has better interior quality and so does the CX-7. But again I would rather have all the aluminum, carbon fiber and big brakes then better plastics. It all depends on what you are looking for. If it is driving experience go for the Z. Also if you are looking for a more luxurious experience check into an Infiniti G35 coupe. I almost bought one and it is pretty much the 350Z's brother as far as the chassis, engine and technology.
Check out a couple forums if you want some more info. These are a couple I frequent. The first is made up of a lot of New England members whom I know from our local meets and events, great bunch of guys/gals.
www.g350zforums.com and
www.my350z.com. Sorry if this is long. Hope it was helpful.
