Used Z3 vs New MX5

[discolite]

Objectively speaking, which would you get? I could get a used '97 Z3 with new COE, so I have 9+ years of good driving left, for $80k or so.

Alternatively, I could get a new MX5 Roadster Coupe with retractable hardtop for $105k from a PI.

Both 2-seater topless sex-on-wheels (do you like Jap porn or ang moh old-skool porn?). Both would be 1.9L auto. Both have their own cult following, for various reasons.

Soooo ... Is $25k more worth it for the new car smell? On top of that I get PARF rebate, can export in next few years if needed, has newer technology (basics like, say, multi function steering wheel all add up), less worry about maintenance since I'm first owner and it's new.

Or ... I could have a Z3. And $25k more. I'm not rich so $25k would make a big difference, but I'm not sure the savings wouldn't be negated due to added maintenance costs, increased COE car road tax (50% more per year after 14th year), higher loan premium for old car (if needed, still doing my maths).

Objectively speaking, does it make sense to plump for the Z3? Heeeelp!

 

[Mockngbrd]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Z3 FTW... den ur $25k... go mod ur Z3 to high heaven (or at least, it'll be enuff for an SC)

 

[discolite]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

FTW ... good motto

SC = ?

 

[javiero]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

SC = Supercharger

 

[louis]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

the new mx5 would have better resale value i think.

also, depending on the condition of the car, i suspect the 25k you save on the Z3 can be spent real quickly on a new gearbox, engine overhaul, new tires, new roof hydraulics, cooling system overhaul, new suspension, new paintwork, engine and transmission mounts, new electronics etc etc.

AND.. the old Z3 has plastic rear windows right? you'll probably need to replace those too.

 

[ryan]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Go for the MX5.

Way better handler than the Z3. And im echoing louis's comments above...

 

[MRacer77]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

get the MX5... z3 does not like corners and the build quality is questionable.. plus you be paying 1.5X normal road tax

 

[coolant]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

If you are comparing a '97 BMW Z3 vs a new MX-5, then i say go for the new MX-5.

Imho, i'm amazed there is even a '97 Z3 still on the market, these cars should have been exported long ago!

But if you are considering between a '03 or '04 BMW Z4, then its a whole different ballgame, i'd say definitely go for the Z4, i've driven both cars, the Z4 is an awesome drive and beats the pants off the MX-5.

 

[foxfrc5]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

I think you should drive them back to back and see which you prefer. The Z3 looks nice but basically has an E30 rear suspension. I liked the E30, but some think they are tricky on the limit. Agree with above comments that any savings could evaporate if stuff needs fixing. MX-5 could also be easier to onsell when the time comes. Fewer people like old cars -- sad but true.

 

[discolite]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Thanks for many responses

Well... the used Z3 comes with new tires, new suspension, new rear window. Gearbox and engine seem okay but it's true, you never do know with used old cars. Another thing is, the loan premium for old cars, as I've been quoted, is minimum 4.75% for max 5 years, which is quite a turn off, it adds up to a lot over a short period of time.

What I really do need to do, as foxfrc5 has suggested, is to test drive an MX5. I'm sure it'll have the upper hand in terms of creature comforts, but I need to compare how they ride for myself.

HOWEVER that BLOODY Regan FRICKIN Lee has made that very hard to do.

The Z3's cache and (this is subjective) winning looks still have it ahead by a whisker though.

Decisions decisions decision!

 

[///M3]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

looks---Z3
performance--MX5..that shit is fast when pickup!

 

[foxfrc5]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

HOWEVER that BLOODY Regan FRICKIN Lee has made that very hard to do.

Surely if you are a serious buyer and mature driver, they will still allow a test. Just remember that these cars are not about ultimate speed. MX-5s have always been about steering feel, responsiveness, handling, lightness, etc. and not outright speed...

 

[MRacer77]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

thats very good advice...

 

[DRV]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Surely if you are a serious buyer and mature driver, they will still allow a test. Just remember that these cars are not about ultimate speed. MX-5s have always been about steering feel, responsiveness, handling, lightness, etc. and not outright speed...

If you're really keen on the car, they'll still let you test drive it. Don't buy a car you haven't driven, no matter what you've heard about it.

IMHO, the latest MX-5 is a much better ride than the Z3. Looks aside, which different people will have different opinions. Plus the lower running costs because of newer technology.

Not sure if you could find some very early model Z4 at a good price. The late 03/04 cars are all going at $140 or more.

 

[T6]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

The specs of the PI hardtop MX5 not as good as the agt's. Why not consider agt softop MX5 at $99k? Get it in white with red seats and larp in 18" anthracite or matt black rims and wah la......u have a head turner

 

[foxfrc5]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Get it in white with red seats and larp in 18" anthracite or matt black rims and wah la......u have a head turner

That sounds fantastic. I can just picture it.

 

[kl88]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

The specs of the PI hardtop MX5 not as good as the agt's. Why not consider agt softop MX5 at $99k? Get it in white with red seats and larp in 18" anthracite or matt black rims and wah la......u have a head turner

"..larp in.."?? Is this Queen's English, T6..?

Sorry.. I couldn't resist.. Hope you've been well, T6.. long time no see.. :nehnehhh:

Sorry also for ..

kl88 out..

 

[regret]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

side track abit...hw abt 10 yr old slk230 vs mx5?

 

[Radon39]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Larp?? simi LARP??:nehnehhh: :nehnehhh:

IMO, go for the MX-5. Have had it for 6 mths now, and loving every moment of it. Trigger happy and very driftable drive....did wheelspin 2x gunning out from main-expressway.

Engine note is sweet and she handles beautifully...

Go for the Agent as they give better specs...but advise to wait till COE drops a little...I got mine at $114k. It is now $120k:screwedu: :screwedu:

 

[///M3]

Re: Used Z3 vs New MX5

Engine note is sweet and she handles beautifully...

thats what i heard too..from another owner..