We all like to bicker about our massive parts costs, chain guide failures, and fuel system problems on our Q45s. But after looking around, it seems that the 95+ Millenia's (supercharged versions) have an equally rare (compared to guide failure) problem with oil seals failing on the supercharger. Otherwise, theyre mechanically rock solid.
Cost? Over $4000 in just parts.Ouch!
If I had $4k to blow, I'd blow it on a VH45DE. And $1600 for guides and a pan drop seem like nothing in comparison, for a $40k car with a powerful V8 and enough panache and performance to give a brand new E-420 owner a scare. Try justifying that expense for a 210hp 2.3L V6 on a small vehicle without a luxury nameplate.
My reason for giving up old Qs for a while, is a total lack of time to devote to anything but general maintenance. And with family and friends across the country, I dont want to risk mechanical failures during a road trip. I'd hate to get stuck in Hicksville USA again attracting leery stares and suspicious looks from the locals. (Looking like a terrorlst sucks. I don't fly anymore.)
Its a hobby, and now with college I just dont have time for an old Q anymore.
It was great though when I was unemployed and had nothing else to do!So I lean again toward the 99 G20 and the 96 I30. Why G20? The enthusiast in me longs for a manual shifter. I like the way the 5-speed Maxima drives, but the shifter is too, how do I put it, "long throw" like.
-Jesda
