4th gen or 5th gen
08-09-2006, 09:57 PM
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 37
4th gen or 5th gen
Ok well I'm stuck between a 4th Gen or 5th Gen, I mean i like both the cars but I like the styling of the 4th a little more. The 5ths are great but I don't like the lines as much. I've been looking around and I see that the 5ths have a little more power (like 30hp and like 15 torque) and I wanted to know why this is and what are your guys opinions on this car. I posted something like this in the 5th gen but i want some 4th gen guys comments also.
08-09-2006, 09:59 PM
#2
Depends on what 5th gen you get.
2000-2001 had the same engine our 4th gens do, but had a different intake manifold and the engine was tuned slightly different.
The 2001.5 and on had the 3.5 liter engine that is now used in 80% of Nissans cars... Thats where a serious HP boost was.
If you've got the money to spend, I would go with the 4th gen, and swap a 3.5 into it.
Check out the all motor forum and read the stickies to get some information on the swap.
Mike
2000-2001 had the same engine our 4th gens do, but had a different intake manifold and the engine was tuned slightly different.
The 2001.5 and on had the 3.5 liter engine that is now used in 80% of Nissans cars... Thats where a serious HP boost was.
If you've got the money to spend, I would go with the 4th gen, and swap a 3.5 into it.
Check out the all motor forum and read the stickies to get some information on the swap.
Mike
08-09-2006, 10:05 PM
#3
Originally Posted by blackmaxx96
The 2001.5 and on had the 3.5 liter
If you're referring to a vehicle manufactured in 01... but released as an 02... Then I have a 2002.5 (model year '03)
Originally Posted by blackmaxx96
If you've got the money to spend, I would go with the 4th gen, and swap a 3.5 into it.
As for the OP..
I have both (95 and 03...or 2002.5
)Truthfully they both have their strong points... But you need to decide what your future plans are .
08-10-2006, 03:25 AM
#8
4th gen = 1995-1999 = 3.0L engine = 190hp
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
4th gens are lighter, just as roomy, and more moddable. All 5th gens ride smoother and are little nicer inside; 5.5 gens are also much faster.
If you're getting a stick, jman7777 is right: either get a 5.5 gen (try to get the HLSD) or get a 4th gen. If you're getting an auto, it doesn't matter as much because it'll be a boat no matter which generation you pick....
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
4th gens are lighter, just as roomy, and more moddable. All 5th gens ride smoother and are little nicer inside; 5.5 gens are also much faster.
If you're getting a stick, jman7777 is right: either get a 5.5 gen (try to get the HLSD) or get a 4th gen. If you're getting an auto, it doesn't matter as much because it'll be a boat no matter which generation you pick....
08-10-2006, 06:27 AM
#12
Supporting Maxima.org Member
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 1,183
AE 5 Speed over a 4th? I am sorry, but I must disagree with that. The transmission in the AE is just flat out newer, nicer, LSD, and all the goodies. But you are still stuck with a DEK, a bigger car payment, and a lot of extra unsprung weight. With a 4th gen, you can swap in the AE 5speed (Or the I30t tranny) and 3.5 swap and be happier.
Please note this is all in my opinion. Going 5th gen will provide a more luxurious and comfortable ride (in suspension terms).
Please note this is all in my opinion. Going 5th gen will provide a more luxurious and comfortable ride (in suspension terms).
08-10-2006, 06:53 AM
#14
Originally Posted by NmexMAX
I've never heard of this. Explain how this is different from the 02 model year?
If you're referring to a vehicle manufactured in 01... but released as an 02... Then I have a 2002.5 (model year '03)
I'd say it's opposite. An A32 can be found for less than 5k, and the swap can be had for 3k at the most... Still cheaper than what most 02+ Maximas go for.
As for the OP..
I have both (95 and 03...or 2002.5 )
Truthfully they both have their strong points... But you need to decide what your future plans are .
If you're referring to a vehicle manufactured in 01... but released as an 02... Then I have a 2002.5 (model year '03)
I'd say it's opposite. An A32 can be found for less than 5k, and the swap can be had for 3k at the most... Still cheaper than what most 02+ Maximas go for.
As for the OP..
I have both (95 and 03...or 2002.5
)Truthfully they both have their strong points... But you need to decide what your future plans are .
I agree. I'm not sure where blackmaxx got his information. But, I own a 2k 5th gener. Before, I had a '95 4th gener., and I can tell you that I like the 5th gener's much better. First...yeah, the 5th gener's have more power and I could definitely tell the difference. Second....5th gener's have much less serious problems than the 4th gener's. The 4th gener's have most commonly problems like knock sensors, timing chains, starters, EGR problems, wheel bearings, crankshaft positioning sensor, and among other things. I went thru this while owning my '95. But, ever since owning my 2k, I love it. Luckily, I haven't been experiencing any major problems like the other 5th gener owners (transmission, MAF, O2, etc.), so I cannot complain. I only experienced problems like coils and rusted out exhaust components. But, to each his own. You decide on what YOU want. Whenever I decide on cars, my major decision is set on maintenance and reliabilty. The less maintenance, the better.
08-10-2006, 07:23 AM
#15
Not sure you can get a good comparison of reliability by comparing a 1995 car to a 2000 car. If you were to compare equal mileages, equal conditions, and equal levels of maintenance, it would be pretty close.
Granted, that is ultimately an academic argument; ALL 4th gens are older than 5th gens, which will play a role. But you do pay less initially for a 4th gen, which can offset the maintenance costs.
Granted, that is ultimately an academic argument; ALL 4th gens are older than 5th gens, which will play a role. But you do pay less initially for a 4th gen, which can offset the maintenance costs.
08-10-2006, 07:36 AM
#16
Senior Member
Join Date: May 2005
Posts: 282
if you wanna be crazy drop a 3.5 in a 4th gen, otherwise i would personally spring for the 02+ 5th gen... i cant stop looking at this damn forum cuz a good coworker of mine has the 02 maxima and i cant help think but keeping up with him in my 96 :'(
08-10-2006, 07:41 AM
#17
When I bought my Max it was down to what I have now, '97 SE manual or get a more expensive, newer '00. This might sound bad, but it came down to looks and the 5th gen Maxima's rear looks like absolute ***!!! One of the ugliest backends I've ever seen on any car. Just my opinion...
08-10-2006, 07:48 AM
#19
See what's the point of all the swapping???? It's not like he is buying the car to make it superfast or anything. bolt on mod for bolt on mod I will take a 5th gen. It is newer, when modded it looks better. Ride is MUCH better. Steering is better. Sure you can make a 4th gen look great and make it fast but it is old and will have more problems than a newer car...
08-10-2006, 08:55 AM
#22
i love my 4th gen, but my next car will probably be a 02 or 03 5.5 gen cuz 4th gens are getting old in todays market. if i can afford it, my next car will be a 350Z or possibly a G35 coupe.
08-10-2006, 10:16 AM
#23
Originally Posted by NmexMAX
I've never heard of this. Explain how this is different from the 02 model year?
If you're referring to a vehicle manufactured in 01... but released as an 02... Then I have a 2002.5 (model year '03)
Ok, so I didn't get that right... I don't really follow 5th gens as much... 4th gens are better
I'd say it's opposite. An A32 can be found for less than 5k, and the swap can be had for 3k at the most... Still cheaper than what most 02+ Maximas go for.
That's exactly what I said..............
As for the OP..
I have both (95 and 03...or 2002.5 )
Truthfully they both have their strong points... But you need to decide what your future plans are .
If you're referring to a vehicle manufactured in 01... but released as an 02... Then I have a 2002.5 (model year '03)
Ok, so I didn't get that right... I don't really follow 5th gens as much... 4th gens are better
I'd say it's opposite. An A32 can be found for less than 5k, and the swap can be had for 3k at the most... Still cheaper than what most 02+ Maximas go for.
That's exactly what I said..............
As for the OP..
I have both (95 and 03...or 2002.5
)Truthfully they both have their strong points... But you need to decide what your future plans are .
08-10-2006, 05:40 PM
#24
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 37
well its unfortinate but i can't afford a 5.5 gen. I personaly like the 4th gens body styler a lot more. Now as for susepsion is there any difference in the 5th gen and the 4th gens or are they the same. Also is it possible to swap in the intake from a 5th gen and get a tune (with other mods) and gain some power back or is the ecu on the 5th gens just completely different/better.
08-10-2006, 07:05 PM
#27
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 37
Well I think I'm set on getting the 4th gen (unless I some how can get a 5.5 gen then i get that), I just hope i don't miss the extra power that the 5th gens have. I mean its not all that much but it still looks like its enough to give it some more umf (yea thats so misspelled and i doubt anyone knows what I'm saying)
08-10-2006, 07:17 PM
#28
Originally Posted by DaGGer
Well I think I'm set on getting the 4th gen (unless I some how can get a 5.5 gen then i get that), I just hope i don't miss the extra power that the 5th gens have. I mean its not all that much but it still looks like its enough to give it some more umf (yea thats so misspelled and i doubt anyone knows what I'm saying)
08-10-2006, 08:14 PM
#29
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 37
LOL, i live in the north east. Its just something you have to keep an eye on. My ranger doesn't have rust on it (except for the usual paint chips that i got now), I mean I offroad so I mean looks aren't all THAT important but its nice to have a truck that looks pretty good and with 140,000 I think its about time to get another vehicale and then swap a 5.0L into the ranger and some cserious mods to it.
08-10-2006, 08:21 PM
#30
Originally Posted by DaGGer
Now as for susepsion is there any difference in the 5th gen and the 4th gens or are they the same.
Originally Posted by DaGGer
Also is it possible to swap in the intake from a 5th gen and get a tune (with other mods) and gain some power back or is the ecu on the 5th gens just completely different/better.
). That will give you quite a power boost.
08-10-2006, 08:25 PM
#31
I have both a 97 and an 02, and although the power is nice in the 02, and it is a lot quieter, more refined and doesn't get blown around as much on the highway, you will never miss all that stuff never having owned a 02+. The money in your pocket will feel much better than anything the 02+ may or may not offer. Especially if you are considering an 00-01, I'd recommend the 4th gen over that. Even though the 00 and 01 gained 30 hp, they also gained a couple hundred pounds. I'm selling my 02 and keeping my 97 if that shows you how I feel about it. Try to find one with under 100K, and it will give you another 100K+ of good service.
... Until you explain a 2001.5... 
08-12-2006, 03:09 AM
#34
Senior Member
Join Date: Jun 2001
Posts: 248
Originally Posted by d00df00d
4th gen = 1995-1999 = 3.0L engine = 190hp
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
4th gens are lighter, just as roomy, and more moddable. All 5th gens ride smoother and are little nicer inside; 5.5 gens are also much faster.
If you're getting a stick, jman7777 is right: either get a 5.5 gen (try to get the HLSD) or get a 4th gen. If you're getting an auto, it doesn't matter as much because it'll be a boat no matter which generation you pick....
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
4th gens are lighter, just as roomy, and more moddable. All 5th gens ride smoother and are little nicer inside; 5.5 gens are also much faster.
If you're getting a stick, jman7777 is right: either get a 5.5 gen (try to get the HLSD) or get a 4th gen. If you're getting an auto, it doesn't matter as much because it'll be a boat no matter which generation you pick....
But, I say get a 4th gen engine build + mod + tune = dance around the 5th any day
08-12-2006, 08:14 AM
#35
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Posts: 179
5.5th > 4th > 5th gen. I've driven both 5.5 and 4th and riden in a 5th. The 5.5 is
very nice perfomance wise and feels very nice. The 5th even though I haven't driven it so i may not be entitled to judge it didn't impress me much. Depending what you're looking for in a car the 4th gen also has a noticably tighter turning radius.
Originally Posted by d00df00d
4th gen = 1995-1999 = 3.0L engine = 190hp
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
but 4th gen 3000-3150
5th gens are ~3300
very nice perfomance wise and feels very nice. The 5th even though I haven't driven it so i may not be entitled to judge it didn't impress me much. Depending what you're looking for in a car the 4th gen also has a noticably tighter turning radius.
Originally Posted by d00df00d
4th gen = 1995-1999 = 3.0L engine = 190hp
5th gen = 2000-2001 = 3.0L engine with new intake manifold = 222hp
5.5 gen = 2002-2003 = 3.5L engine = 255hp
but 4th gen 3000-3150
5th gens are ~3300
08-12-2006, 08:21 AM
#36
Originally Posted by gx2nds4
but 4th gen 3000-3150
5th gens are ~3300
5th gens are ~3300
A 4th gen might take a 5th gen in the lower RPMs, but *****-out, a 5th gen will be faster.
08-12-2006, 09:04 AM
#37
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2005
Posts: 179
Originally Posted by d00df00d
https://maxima.org/modules.php?name=30_comparisons
A 4th gen might take a 5th gen in the lower RPMs, but *****-out, a 5th gen will be faster.
A 4th gen might take a 5th gen in the lower RPMs, but *****-out, a 5th gen will be faster.
08-13-2006, 05:08 AM
#39
Supporting Maxima.org Member
Join Date: May 2001
Posts: 25
I have to say that I agree with ManualMaxFan – I just recently picked up 01 AE from Carmax to replace my 232k mile 97 SE (both auto) and my 97 will still run circles around the 01. Off the line and in the corners are the most noticeable. On the highway at WOT the 01 feels very rolly (are all 5th gens like this?). I do have your basic go faster mods in the 97 (Stillen intake, FSTB, y-pipe, Unorthodox racing pully) and only Stillen intake and FSTB in the 01. I will definitely be upgrading the 01’s suspension after the y-pipe and Unorthodox racing pully install are completed. That'll be next month’s project – this month is upgrading my Z’s turbos to JWT Sport 500’s…For the reasons mentioned above I still have not sold my 97 SE…
08-13-2006, 07:53 AM
#40
Originally Posted by Black Maxima
G35 or M45
as far as 4th G vs. 5th G.
I think regular 5th Gens are ugly, I've seen alot of 5th Gens with cloudy headlights (my cars a '98 and they're crystal clear). The rear end of the 5th Gens is atrocious in my opinion and to me the DE-K is enough of an improvement over the DE to wave my decision (00vi swap FTW). Also I drove a few 5th Gen SE's and the steering sure as hell doesn't seem any better than my 4th Gens, but perhaps I didn't take a big enough placebo before taking a drive, yet the overall ride was quite a bit smoother.
..and the 5.5 Gen as far as maximas is the winning car, HLSD, 3.5, titanium and meridian models available and some other options, and a overall neat improvement.
All IMO mind you.