Hello from Los Angeles!

state

After several weeks of deliberation, I finally picked up my new 2013 370Z 6MT (base coupe). Like many of you, I seriously considered the FR-S/BRZ, Cayman, and others. In the end, I was made a great deal on the Z. FWIW, my local dealers aren't interested in dealing on the FR-S/BRZ (some even mark them up). For those who have not driven an FR-S, it's a truly fantastic little car. The handling dynamics are incredible, and it illustrates what you can do when you reduce weight in a meaningful way! But, it also made me wonder what a car like that with REAL power might be. They make that too -- it's called a 370Z! The Cayman S is amazing but the value and maintenance outlook scared me off. I only have good things to say about the FR-S and Cayman, but like they say, you vote with your wallet!

I just hit 500 miles (it took me a couple weeks!) and spent yesterday doing a few modifications. My original plan was to buy a Base/Sport, but that combo just wasn't to be had. So, I bought a true base 6MT and decided to build.

I have a full set of Akebono brakes on the way and I'm debating an OS-Giken and Quaife LSD to go with my 4.09 rear-end. I'm pretty sure I'll go with an AEM intake, too.

To address the stock radio, I bought a 3K series Pioneer deck (AVH-P3400BH 2-Din). It handles the Bluetooth, DVD, and XM satellite chores very nicely. It's an easy install and I recommend it.

Power-wise I've done the Motordyne "ART" pipes and spent a few hours at Shawn Church's place getting it tuned. As an aside, I dumped the ECU for them last week -- the folks at UpRev hadn't seen a 2013 yet. It only took them a few days to get it sorted out. My Z puts down 345 WHP and 280 ft./lbs. torque. I'll post about that separately.

So, this is my 3rd Z. I had a 1990 Z32TT, a first year Z33 (that had tranny issues), and I'm enjoying my Z34 so far. I figured the third model year should be relatively free of quirks. This is my 20th car -- I can be fickle! Anyhow, I've had a very wide range of imports and I'm building my third Jeep (a 2012 JKUR). If there are other Jeep guys, I'd like to hear from you. This one is a high-speed desert runner that can still boulder crawl.

I've had lots of Nissan cars and currently own a 2011 Leaf, too (though I'm selling it next week). My Z isn't a daily driver, but I require to be capable of being one (I ride my KLR 650 to work). I'm really looking forward to talking Z stuff with everyone!

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