I'm another Maxima supporter. They're just too great a blend of durability, dependability, fun, and practicality to turn down. They really don't do anything poorly but they excel at a great many things. They're great daily drivers, but they're fun to drive and you can get your hoon on if you want. They're not only dependable but very easy to work on (aside from having to remove the damn plenum to replace the rear spark plugs). Parts are cheap and easy to find--especially since there are tons of good-condition examples in every junkyard. Their trunks are enormous due. Back seats have plenty of room for actual adults. You just can't lose with a Maxima unless you completely despise FWD.
Don't buy an Explorer. Later models are so sub-par. They started off as great trucks, and then Ford compromised them more with each redesign. Newer ones are too big, have IRS all around, and have crummy powerplant options. The Cologne 4 liter gets ATROCIOUS fuel economy and makes anemic power. The 4.6 V8 ALSO gets atrocious fuel economy but lacks low-end torque. If Ford had kept the Exploder Ranger-based, it would have remained a very desirable little truck. But they were so busy molding it into a soccermom carrier that it lost its way. It had a ladder-frame but wasn't very good offroad. It had a V6 but wasn't economical. It seated 7 but the back seat is a PITA to get in and out of. It's just not a good truck. I looked at them very seriously before picking up my LS8 and just was not impressed. I'd get an Expedition or Navigator long before an Explorer. Comparable fuel economy, comparable offroad capabilities, but much they're much roomier and nicer to drive.
Pathfinder is a FAR better truck than the Exploder. As is the Trailblazer, with a equivalent offroad capabilities and VASTLY superior onroad manners and much, much, much, MUCH nicer powertrain options.
Heavy wrote:I know i had an SVT focus for a number of years. They make less than 200hp, dyoned at 154hp when i took it in.
Rated bhp =/= measured wheel horsepower. 15-20 losses over rated bhp are to be expected.
That said, I wouldn't buy a used SVT focus, either. It's a TEN YEAR OLD econocar. It's not going to be dependable, comfortable, or anything except boyracer. So if the latter is all you need, go for it, buy cheap fun. But if you want a CAR...buy something that's not a heavily-used bargain offering.