I know since I'm asking this in the 4th gen forum , answers will probably be a bit biased!

I'm looking for another Max, already have two 4th gen ones, seems like there are more 5th gen ones for sale at about the same price and mileage.

Other than styling (which in my mind the 4th gen has a more contemporary look), any major differences in the 2 models?

I know that a couple of the guys on the 5th gen forum says that the turning radius sucks on the 5th gen.

Other input?

 

The turning radius sucks, that's a given.

Seriously, it's your choice. Why would you let random people you've never seen before choose which one you get?

 

Turning radius blows on 5/5.5 gens.
5th gen has the VQ30DEK, with different IMs then the VQ30DE, resulting in around 30hp more.
5.5 gen has the VQ35DE, completely different engine with more hp then the VQ30DEK. Also has standard HIDs. Better looking then the 5th gen IMO.

The choice is really up to you though. Got both and honestly even though my 5.5 gen is much quicker, I like my 4th gen better.

 

im with u on this Chris^^ even thoouh sometimes i drive my pop's 02 i always come back wanting to drive my 96 regardless of the power difference.

 

I like the 4th gen better, just my opinion, I've driven all gens, owned a 97, I like everything about the 4th gen better other than the performance.
Realistically, buy a 5, or 5.5, better resale, less km, the 4th gens UNFORTUNATELY are getting rare in good shape. No one stores these cars they're too much fun and too practical, unfortunately the 4th gen's are dying out.

 

depends on what you're looking for, if you are worried about a resale value, get a 5th gen, if that doesn't matter and you can find a good 4th gen, I would grab a 4th gen.

I just recently sold my 99, I can honestly say that a 4th gen has a much "sportier" feel to in then my 03. Power difference is nice but there are other features to consider like insurance cost, parts replacement costs, what you like better, what kind of deal you can find....G/L shopping.

 

from a 4th gen to 5th gen owner, yes, the turn radius is worse and its a little sluggish in cornering on stock springs. all around i like the styling more and think its worth it though. 5th gens look "meaner" to me

 

More curious if anyone knew more negatives about the 5th gen besides the turning radius.

I like the 4th gen styling better, especially the taillights and headlights/grill, at least on the 97 and up.

 

the 2k2 and 2k3 (2002 and 2003) models with the 3.5L engine have a tendency to use oil, like over a quart in 5000 miles. its not burning it (at least from what i've read) but it goes somewhere. I have a 2k (2000) and i find it more comfortable than my 97, but not as comfortable as my 94.