Okay, in my strange second gen Maxima fascination of late, I've been doing a lot of research. I've found some slightly confusing information.

What I had always thought was that the first gen Maxima was the 180B 810 Datsun from the 70's. This: (click it for the whole website and more pics--very cool stuff)

After that, I figured the 1981 to 1988 were the same. However, I have read that the 1981-1984 were rear drive and much different from the 1985-1988. I knew (from Cullen's post in a thread below) that the 1981-1984 had an L28E rather than a VG30E, but I thought that was the extent of differences.

Then from third gen on I'm clear, except I can't seem to remember which Japanese model corresponds to the Maximas. There was a post recently in which I wanted to respond with the Japanese model, but I couldn't remember. Doesn't really matter, more of a curiosity.

I know that from 1992 on, the SE bore a VE30DE making 50 more hp than the VG30E in other packages and previous SE's. Then in 1995 the generation switched again and the VQ came into play. The fourth gen remained largely unchanged other than a much needed re-arrangement of the ugly taillights.

Fifth gen was another half-way change. Even though the engine was now half a liter bigger, early models made no more power than the 1992-on SE and fourth gen-on in general. Halfway through the 5th generation (what year?) the power climbed to a number I don't recall at the moment.

Sixth gen has the VQ35DE still, but now makes 265 hp and 255 lb-ft torque.

So according to the info I have found, what I have always considered the first gen Max is actually not even counted as a Maxima generation, even though it did bear the Maxima name. But since it DID bear the Maxima name, that means that technically, the curent Maxima is the SEVENTH generation.

The way I see it:1. 1970's (up to 1980) Datsun 180B 810 2. 1981 to 19843. 1985 to 19884. 1989 to 19945. 1995 to 19996. 2000 to 20037. 2004 to present.

But that's seven generations. So there must be something wrong with my information. Anyone know what it is?

To my understanding Maxima used to be an option on a specific car. It would kinda of be like the 350z touring... then later just naming a car touring. Bad example i know... But then the 81 model was the start of the actual maxima model. The maxima used to be a rear wheel drive car.

Sorry this is short but i got a final in about an hour so someone else can elaborate if they want.

Its only 6 generations. If you drop the 1. 1970's (up to 1980) Datsun 180B 810,then you got ur gen's right.

Okay that's what I thought. But I have seen those earlier ones referred to as Maximas, so I got confused.

I guess I was mostly right after all.

The '70 to '80 models had a "Maxima" trim level, but they were not Maxima's.

Thanks audtatious!

Learn something new everyday.