I’m a Z33 advocate. The development of the FM platform Z33 and it’s sales success is the reason there is a Z now, because without it there certainly would not have been a Z34 hence no new Z. I also think it gets way to much hate in the community because of the Z32 which to me is way more unfaithful to the original S30 philosophy then the Z33. The 350z brought back affordability, simplicity, and good handling/power for what was then a true bargain in every way. More powerful then a 5.0 V8 Mustang GT, reliable unlike the Mazda RX-8, RWD unlike the horrid gen1 Audi TT, great chassis unlike the Crossfire, and in my opinion a pure and beautiful shape without being over the top. Interior is a let down but considering it was trying to meet a target price, and it was the early 2000’s I don’t think that’s saying much either. Biggest flaw was the early base models had small heavy rims that negatively effect handling for the sake of a better ride. RAYs from the 03-05 track edition are a must or any RAYS wheels from the later models. Overall the 350z is important, and people forget it.
