In 2006 for that model, the Maxima changed to a CVT. While more reliable, they are different, and they substantially lower the fun factor. The Maxima is a nice car to an extent, the interior styling is a little odd if you don't get the navi package, it has a display for the radio that you cannot see at all in the sunlight. The engine is NOT the same engine as in the Altima. It'* a 255 hp instead of the Altima'* 270-ish hp. I don't think it'* as fast as an L67 what so ever, I recorded a 7.4 0-60 time in one when I worked at the dealership. IMO, you could do better, they're pretty reliable but the styling and interior quality is iffy. I'm not gonna say it'* a bad car, I mean it'* worth a look, but it wouldn't be my first choice at all...

I drove a 2004 for a month and it would smoke a 3800 supercharged un modded that is. It has a 5 speed auto than makes great use of the power avaiable. I would expect if you can find a 2003 (old Bodystyle) with the 3.5 it would be quicker but than again I think the 03 had a 4 speed auto. Only bad thing is maximas are everywhere like the accord so its not a rare sight like the Aurora or even the 300M special.

for an 02/03 Maxima
a 5-spd auto can trip a 14.6 at the track bone stock.
a 6-spd manual can hit a 14.3 stock

the 04+ sit about .1sec behind due to some extra weight, and heavier wheels

Then why do you have a 15.1 1/4 mile time listed in your siggy? :?

bald tires, no traction
poor track prep
full street trim, including stereo, spare, jack, baby seat
my car is FULLY loaded, so, im a tenth behind the base models anyway

my friend ran a 14.9 in full street trim, automtic, LOTS of stereo equip, HEAVY *** 19" wheels, and nothing but intake and catback (the exhaust is useless just like on a bonneville)



READ HERE:
http://forums.maxima.org/showthread.php?t=211688

'03 Maxi'* don't have true IRS, and they suffer for it..

Why not get a G35? Same basic engine, stronger drivetrain, better handling, nicer interior appointments (important to you).

I'll never take my car to the track, so track time doesn't affect my decision, neither does speed. In Ontario, if you are caught doing 50kph over the limit they take away your car for a week and charge you a huge fine on the spot.

.1 seconds isn't going to sway me.

Ergonomics surely is. If I make a move to a Max, it will have nav. I need to sit in it first to get a feel for it. I like the G35, but can't afford the Infiniti premium price.

look at pricing, KBB only puts a G35 sedan about 2-3k over the Maxima

Could make the difference bud

There is a big difference between $15K and 17-18K, especially the way these used car joints have stupid interest rates, end up paying an extra $10K over 5 years on interest alone.

I'm having a VERY tough time wrapping my head around paying monthly for a car. Hence my undying attempts at fixing my Aurora. Its paid for.

But anyway, I may end up leasing something for 2 years or so...so many options, and so many cars to look over (oh and so many cars simply suck)...heh

What about a BMW 740i sport or is rear wheel drive out?