Andy Zarse buys a new car too!
I've done a Pretzel and chipped in the Scooby for the big Zee car.
Used to love the 1970's 240Z when I was a kid, and also had a soft spot for the Bertone designed Alfa GTV. They were far superior to the outdated and badly packaged MGB and also the truly awful Ford Crapi, which it made look positively archaic. What a pity the 240 begat the disgusting 300Z which was an abomination unto medalion man.
Very pleased to hear that you are indeed a man of exceptionally good taste Mr Z. (That moniker will come in useful when you take delivery of your new toy). It's a bit spooky that we both had Imprezas and then went on to the Z. I didn't chop the Scoob in though - I sold it to an enthusiast who understood; rather than take the pittance offered to me by Nissan.
I've had mine from new in May 2005 and have enjoyed every minute of it. By the way the waiting list has come down - I had to wait 6 months for delivery so consider yourself lucky.
Before buying it I tried the S2000 (way too lairy on the limit and too much thrashing for everyday use), and the Boxster (a good drive but would you be seen in one?). The Z is a good balance between torquey, lazy GT and lairy sportster when the mood takes and the rev counter has to do a bit of work.
The comparison test in Car Magazine you refer to in your later posting sums it up really - it's not perfect but it's the hooligans choice. To my mind it has that almost indefiniable thing that you cannot say about any mere car - character.
I can share with you my ownership experience if you like but wouldn't want to bore others on here with the minutiae so PM me if interested.
