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Looking to buy '09-'12 G37 Convertible, need advice!
Hello, I've researched Japanese convertibles and have decided that at the price point I'm looking at, the G37 is the hands-down winner, by a longshot. I'm well past my German luxury car phase, and also enjoyed my last PHEV, which I just sold with 170K miles on the clock. For now, I'd like something to commute between New Orleans and Florida on the weekends that won't give me much trouble, and doesn't require much more than the local Nissan/Infiniti dealer for service. I plan to drive it around 25K miles/year. The G37 seems like the best fit all around, and can be fun on the weekends for me, my wife and small children, as well as a parade or two.
I've narrowed my search to a few models for sale, each of which represents a different approach and course of action, and would like the group's input. At question is whether to spend closer to $10K with higher miles (knowing I'll run the miles way up, so who cares), or $15K with lower miles, again, with the understanding that the miles will accumulate quickly and depreciation will also accelerate. It boils down to, which would take a bigger depreciation hit after 2-3 years, are maintenance costs at or around 100k miles significant, and which would likely cost more?
All models are either black, red or burgundy, most with tan interior, very clean inside out, clean CARFAX, no or minor accidents only:
1. 2012 Base, 125000 miles, $10K, local, Red, Enkei rims scuffed, otherwise super clean
2. 2009 Base, 51000 miles, $13K, 350 miles away, Burgundy, age? Has SRS light on -- fix with pass seat sensor override mod?
3. 2012 Sport Premium 80000 miles, $14K, 700 miles away, Black, two like this available
4. 2012 Base 77000 miles, $15K, 1000 miles away, Red, Enkei rims, looks 9/10, Philadelphia road salt?
5. 2011 Base 65000 miles, $15K, 700 miles away, Red, 18" rims, looks immaculate
I am ambivalent when it comes to Base v. Sport, or 19" Enkei v. 18" rims. I can't tell much difference between the base and sport models, other than the front fascia and don't plan to use the paddle shifters if so equipped. I love the looks of the Enkei rims, but the 18" rims would do better on the roads in New Orleans, which often resembles a bombing range. Plus, 18" tires are cheaper.
I'm a bit partial to the first one as I've seen and driven it, and shipping would not be an issue. Price is good, too. But the others have a distinct advantage when it comes to mileage in particular.
Are there any issues with older models that may be cause for concern? Or any of the models, for that matter? Thanks again for your input.