I know the 2002 Max is expected to have around 260hp. Will this be with the same size body, or is the Maxima's move to full-size car going to be accompanying the 2002's increase in power? I ask because I'm considering a 2001 Max, but don't want to get it if the 2002 will still be a midsize, but have 260+hp.

 

same size/body. it's supposed to increase in size with the next body change. im guessing that will be around 2005/2006.

 

actually, theyre supposed to change the body style for the 2003 and make it a rear wheel drive. at least thats what im hearing from the internet sites, and my dealerships. but who knows until theyre actualy on the lot

 

Is the extra hp for next year coming from a 3.5 engine, or with more intake/exhaust and other work?

 

Yes, its a 3.5L engine

 

do you guys think that the new 3.5L engine will be standard on all models, or will it be for like the SE's only? how much do you think the price of the max will go up with this engine?

 

It has been my understanding that they have kept prices sorta consistent (ie.. 2k max and 2k1 max started off at almsot the same price --> at least at the dealership where I bought mine).. They were virtually the same car, after all!!

An increase in engine size might increase the price, and one has to especially consider that the altima will be getting a V6 sometime soon!! If Nissan doesn't want to undercut it's own Maxima sales, they can't boost the MSRP of a Maxima by a LOT, or those V6 Altimas begin to look REALLY appealing!!!

 

..as much as they know anything at all!!!....my guy is saying the maxima is rapidly heading towards the Avalon size....(ughhhhhhhhhhhhh!)...and the Altima will in turn fill the Maxima niche, size wise

 

 

dude, i have a 95 Avalon and that thing is a BOAT!!! haha its huge but spacious...neways, yea they r comin out in 2003 but i dont think about rear wheel drive...and i hope its a lil better than the Y2k maximas, i hope they have like blue lights and altezza taillights...that wud be cool...

 

Here's the deal...2002 Maxima, same body with 3.5 V-6 at 270HP rating..2002 Altima, totally new car, larger than current Maxima with limited run of 3.5 V-6 versions at 240HP! Then 15 months later, new larger Maxima with close to 300HP from 3.5 V-6. Why the 3.5 in all? Saves money to only have one engine and just "tune" it differently.

New Z-car will get 300HP version of 3.5 V-6 as well....

So what's the best one to get? Or wait for?

 

I've read in numerous mags that it's gonna be a 4 banger....where'd you hear it's gonna have that engine?? Nissan is trying to go back to the 70's and build an affordable sports car again.

 

Hey Hawk, that was the original concept for the new Z. It was built on the 240SX platform, and included a warmed-over version of the KA24DE putting out around 200hp.

The new Z will not only look different from that concept, but will also have the 3.5L V6, the Pathfinder's 240hp engine. Of course it will be tuned up, producing up to 300hp like the others said.

Isn't the Max a midsize already??