I found a 97 SE 5spd with 53k miles. Its dk green with tan cloth, moonroof, no BOSE, no climate control, Stillen intake, new tires, and mostly original parts asking for $10,500? He said it was negotiable, so is something like $9,500 a good deal? Also he said it was in perfect condition but he said he didn't get anything changed yet except the tires. I never had a 5spd so, is 53K miles overdue for a clutch change? Is there any other things that should have been changed with 53k miles on it? It isn't fully loaded with leather, climate control and power heated seats like the car I really want, but should I consider it anyway? I'll check it out this weekend.

 

That car is exactly like mine, a base 97SE with a moonroof. The price seems decent. Check the blue book price at:

Kelly Blue Book

At 53k there should be no problem with the clutch if the owner is experienced. Ask them how long they have been driving a stick.I can consistently get over 100K out of a clutch.

As far as maintenance there isn't much until 60K. Although they should have done general maintenance such as air filter and fuel filter, etc. I would hope they have changed the oil and anti-freeze on a regular basis.

You may want to read through the stickies at the top of the forum for maintenance, etc.

The max is pretty trouble free. Good Luck

 

It sounds like a fair deal. If the car is in good shape and suits your needs I would get it. Don't give to much thought on the cloth interior as you can always buy aftermarket leather and heated seat kits from leatherseats.com.

One thing that needs to be mentioned is that a recall was issued 6/26/02 on maximas made from 2/97 to 2/98. NHTSA campaign number 02V171000. There is a diode that may fail in the alternator and cause a fire. Notification of the affected maximas is supposed to start soon. This is something you will need to take care of yourself as the paper work may not catch up with you.

 

that's a good deal

 

$9500 Don't let it pass you buy.

 

$9,500 would be alright. You might see if you can get him to do some of the 60k maintenence work too. If possible, have a (preferably known/trusted) independent mechanic do an inspection on the vehicle and/or run a carfax.

Aftermarket leather would be better, and aftermarket stereo would be easier to work with/most likely better w/o a Bose. Good luck on the car!

 

9,500 might be hard but 10k solid is good for a 97 especailly with only 53k miles. Its hard to find a low mileage 97-99 SE in my area at all.

 

If the car is in great shape and looks like it was really taken care of, I would go for it! Regardless of blue book value, that's a good price for a 97 SE with only 53K on it, if it's in good shape. That's the same car I have, except mine is black, and it's SWEET!
-Chad

 

I do like the car and the potential to customize and upgrade since it is pretty stock without any options. the low mileage is a turn on. But the only thing that isn't so attractive to me is the color. Its dark green which i picture is a color of luxury which i should be getting chrome 18's for instead of any go fast mods. Is this just me? Do any of you have dark green modded Maxes who want to change my mind?

 

If you want to put performance mods on, I wouldn't let the color of the car stop you. I think the main question is, if you can accept the look of a dark-green max (which I think is just fine) or not. The only other thing I'd personally be worried about is, as a darker color, it'd be a hefty job keeping it clean.

If it doesnt seem appealing, remember, you can trick yourself into tolerance. I managed to convince myself that beige isn't such a bad thing, so anythings possible

 

Jhonnyo, ivolley has a dark green max with tan interior and that car is beautiful. Go ahead sounds like a great deal and definately get the 5 speed as ivolley is faster than my auto with about the same mods.

Russell

 

Dark colors are excellent, but of course I am biased and I will admit you do clean more but with great rewards.