350Z Roadster trunk space

[Vipergtsz3]

Hi all, I'm looking into buying either a new or used Z roadster and have been trying to search my questions as much as possible, but have been coming up empty. Anyway, I've always loved the Z, but have been in the middle of a S60R lease which is soon expiring. I am now looking for something that will be more fun to drive but am having a bit of a debate about the coupe vs. roadster vs. settling with the new Altima Coupe w/ the 3.5 litre and a 6 spd. The Roadster would be my top choice for the fun factor, but I'm a little weary of the trunk size. Obviously you don't buy this car for the cargo volume bu do you all find it livable or is it just too small to really be worth it? The coupe seems like a decent alternative, but I've fallen in love with the roadster idea. The Altima is obviously on the other end of the spectrum as it isn't going to be nearly as involving being a FWD car with a decent amount of torque steer, but it's a great value and looks awesome. I'd also like to track/ auto-X the car, so any feedback on handling of the Z vs. other sports cars is also welcome. Thanks in advance for any info!


Modified by Vipergtsz3 at 11:06 AM 6/25/2007

[C-Kwik]

I think trunk usage varies with user, so you may want to consider how you use the trunk, and go check out a roadster to get a better idea. Perhaps even take some regular items you normally put in the trunk to see how they fit.

The Z roadster is on the porky side for a Z and along with being less rigid, it's not ideal, but can probably be done. You may want to check with the organizations you plan to use for your track excursions and make sure the factory roll loops are approved or that there are aftermarket options that you would be willing to use. Track event organizers generally don't let convertibles on a track unless the factory roll hoops provide sufficient protection from roll-overs or an acceptable aftermarket roll-protection device is used.

[Vipergtsz3]

Thanks C-Kwik. I've been looking into this. It's tough to find a track that will let roadsters on, but auto-crossing is usually less stringent and will allow cars on so long as they have hoops. The car is on the heavy side, and I don't know how much I would really use it on track (I'm lucky enough to have a relative who would lend me their car should I want to go to the track, if I go with the coupe then I'll definitely track it). I was just trying to get a feel for how people like it from day-to-day and how it is long-term. I have heard of a few clutch issues, but I was attributing that mostly to rough drivers rather than OEM defects.

[CABhc4life]

I personally like the smooth hatchback look of the coupe vs. the roadster...with the top down, the roadster doesn't have as much of a sporty look on it in my opinion. never seen the trunk space in the roadster, but I think there's plenty of trunk room in my Z. I went to Sam's club last week and got 5 cases of sodas, 2 cases of beer, a huge package of toilet paper and some other stuff, and I had still had a little room left.

[Vipergtsz3]

I agree that the roadster doesn't have as sporty a look to it, but I've had the chance to drive around a Boxster a lot lately and the rag-top gets to be addictive. Obviously I don't expect boxster performance, but the Z does a great job of mixing decent performance for a roadster with something that's actually affordable. The coupe is more functional but I really don't think you could go wrong either way.

[TwoOhThree350z]

If I can fit a body in the back its enough room!!

[Vipergtsz3]

Ha, well I am an Italian from North Jersey so I guess that should be my test.