Need to Sell 370Z - 2010 Mazda 3 MPS??

[hazey]

Just want to say hi to everyone, looks like a good community you have going here.

Long story short, I am currently driving a 370z and my girlfriend is now pregnant, So I need to sell the Z and get something with more than 2 seats. Previous Car was XR6T with 350rwkw, great performance and power, but usual ford reliability issues especially with driveline, like tailshaft, diff bushes, clunks etc. Only thing stopping me from getting a FG XR6T

The Z is great little performer and love the instant power of the NA. Engine is harsh and a few dash rattles here and there and occasional clunk in gearbox/diff if you dont drive it right.

I am looking for a new 2010 MPS 3 Lux. $40K would be my limit.
1) Think thats possible? Im in sydney.
2) And is it a solid reliable car? I want to avoid creaks, rattles and any clunks in driveline, is the MPS safe in this regard?
3) Oh and it will of course become a daily drive for the girlfriend with the baby and then I get to drive it on weekends

thanks everyone

[langer5489]

You may need to bump your budget up a little for a 10 lux. And changing gears is farelly noisy in the gen1s. Hope u find what your looking for. Congrats on the baby

[2000MNLESS]

Upgrade the misses?

[BradstaMS]

Yeah I'd say the same as what Corey said, Upgrade the other half and keep the Z

Hehe I'm mean, but seriously, 40k for a luxury model, no way laydee.

[hazey]

... And changing gears is farelly noisy in the gen1s...

Did some searching and looks like a few are reporting clunky gear noises on the gen 2. Can anyone advise more on this, I really dont like gearbox or driveline noises especially on new cars as they will only every get worse
My 370z has a clunk from 1st to 2nd but only when its cold - warmed up its fine.

[Scratch2k]

I do find the Gen2 first and second gears a bit clunky, and sometimes first is a bit stiff get engaged if I'm rolling to a stop...if a nice gearbox is one of your main criteria, take an XR5 for a drive, they have a very very nice gear shift feel.

[BlueMPS]

I only have a clunk when I change to quickly.

You might have issue with a Lux under $40k but a standard you should be able to do without any issues.

[Jmac]

Book a test drive and you will know for sure

[blackbetty]

not sure how pregnant your wife is but the MY11 WRX is looking pretty hot and could probably be had for around $40K ... not sure about inside build quality though if it will be impreved .... yes i know this is an MPS forum ...so now my MPS/Mazda hat ... have you considered a used MPS6

[Sabrelli]

.
When i got car, i found it hard goin to 2-3 if i shifted too fast...but now i have no issues...
as for the clunks.....its news to me...

only clunk i hear is front suspension if i do a full lock

but as above, 2011 wrx looks quite nice...and apparently the interior has been upgraded too....havent seen pics yet.