Which Maxima?

[base9se]

I have made a decision to sell my 240 for a Maxima and would like to know what year you guys recommemend and why. I'm looking to buy a Maxima in about a month. What I am looking for is an automatic, leather, and sunroof. Personally, I like the 95-99 model and the 00 models look nice too. Think a $7000 budget is good enough to get me a sweet Maxima?

[MinisterofDOOM]

Maximas can get expensive...but at the same time be cheap...

In my area, a 1993-94 Maxima SE will go for $4200. A 95-99 SE will run you almost $10k. The thing about Maximas is, they would be cheap, but it seems like no one with a decent one wants to part with it. At least, that's how it is around here.

I don't mean to discourage you in any way, don't take it that way. Just don't expect to get one newer than about a '99 for under $10k.

My suggestion would be an early fourth gen (95, 96) or a late third gen. The power numbers are nearly the same, and the third gen has IRS, while the fourth gen does not. For a Max under $7000, I'd say go find a '94 SE (the GXE is VG30E, and not as powerful, if that's a concern to you) with low miles and in good shape. It should last you a long time, and engines are fairly easy to come by so if you have it that long, you can drop a fresh one in fairly cheap.

I drive a '93 GXE (VG30E, 160 hp) and it's got 179,999 miles on it this very moment. I just got the transmission replaces about 1000 miles ago, and this car is driven HARD, so that's a testament to reliablility.

So, yes, $7000 could definitely get you a decent Max. Just look around. If you're lucky enough to find a loaded 99, go for it. Personally though, I'd prefer the third gen since it's got IRS and makes only a little less power (I think only 10 hp) and also, the third gen comes with real alloy wheels, not the steelies with hubcaps you get on many fourth gens.

Either is an excellent car, though, so go for whichever one you like best.

[Jesda]

I have a strong liking toward the 89-94 years myself. Light enough, plenty of power, plenty of room, and a reasonably modern body and interior.

[elwesso]

What about a Q45

[MinisterofDOOM]

I love the original Q. It's the only car I'd take over my Max. The G50 (that's right, right?) is one of my all time favorite cars.

[RBpoweredSileighty]

i like the 98 body styles, but hell any maxima would do..

[PalmerWMD]

7k is definetly enough for a good maxima.That will buy you a wide selection of late 90's Max's, which are some of the best used car buys out there.

Fred..

[elwesso]

Another choice would be an Infiniti J30

Maxima motor, but RWD... Plus those can be had cheaper than maxima, for maxima price.....

You get a lot more features too... and IMO much more attractive

[gabossie]

I always thought the J30's were really nice, but ugly as all hell. The front just doesn't do it for me. The inside is almost exactly like an S14 though, just stretched with a few ammenaties added.

[Altiman94]

I like the rwd of the j30, but not the look. I would go for a 4th gen. They have 32 more hp than the dohc 3rd gen.

[elwesso]

Styling is subjective but it still looks somewhat new... IF you can find one in great shape, i bet someone would think its a late 90s or early 00

I like the styling, and the interior is top notch.....

[Jesda]

Maximas dont die. The best performance/comfort/utility/efficiency/style bang for your buck, period.

[base9se]

Any common problems I should look for? If any?

[Rex]

I had a fuel line freeze-up on my Honda about 5 years ago, and a friedn of mine was nice enough to let me borrow his Maxima (dark green, grey leather, 5 spd sport model) I think it's about a 98, and I fell in love. So, I'd recommend a late 90's 5 speed, get the sport with leather .

[T_love]

i'm a sucker for the 89 - 94. i'd say go with the 93-94 SE. I wish i hadn't sold my Maximas.

[GEO]

Another choice would be an Infiniti J30

Maxima motor, but RWD... Plus those can be had cheaper than maxima, for maxima price.....

You get a lot more features too... and IMO much more attractive

j30's have the 300zx engine I thought?

[Bruno240]

VG30E = 300zx motormaxima = VG30EJ30 = maxima engine

The transative property will tell you then that the J30 has a 300zx motor

[MinisterofDOOM]

Actually, if I remember correctly, the Infiniti J30 had a VG30DE, same as in the Z32, as opposed to the VG30E found in the Z31 and 89-94 Maxima. I could be wrong, though.

[Jesda]

The J30 uses the engine and transmission pulled directly from the 300ZX.

[elwesso]

Didnt the SOHC ones use a chain instead of a belt?

[maxhopper]

$7K should get you a very low mileage 97-99 Maxima SE, or a high mileage 00-01. 5 speeds are very rare and sought after, but worth it. Things to be aware of, are that the 99 has a different ECU than the 97-98 and therefore no ECU tuning available. They are very sporty and dependable, the VQ30DE is nearly indestructable. Just look for one that has been well maintained, with records to back it up.

[jdmfreak]

K

I have a 94.5 and its should be dead, but it's still runnin strong a near 300K. If you want to ask me any questions regarding reliability or anything else. Just hit me up on AIM tomorrow night. Ill be on till 1 or 2AM.

Oh and Im Blackout651

[574-240sx]

Its hard finding the right maxima. It took me a few months and I over paid for my maxima and it was well worth it. I'm currently need to get rid of a car, I kind of have too many. If you are intrested, I'm looking to get rid of my 97' SE leather 5-speed for $6700. I'm replacing the tires and clutch this coming week. 122K on a stock clutch is alot.

Nick