View Poll Results: Which would you buy?
2k1 AE
36
25.90%
2k2 SE
103
74.10%
Voters: 139. You may not vote on this poll
2k1 AE or 2k2 SE?
10-08-2003, 12:41 PM
#3
I struggle with this decision everyday. I love my AE, but every now and then I envy the HIDs and 255HP. I want HIDs but not the 2k2/3 HIDs. I'll retrofit mine with an aftermarket HID kit. As far as the 255HP, I'm working on it. I suppose I'm close to 240HP now. Hey, working on it is the fun part.
10-08-2003, 01:04 PM
#8
Senior Member
Join Date: Aug 2001
Posts: 2,720
If being able to run 14s stock and/or having Navi and/or having a 6sp manual is what you want then, the 2k2 SE is the way to go. If those three things dont matter, then I'd go for the 2k1 AE. Beyond those three factors, they're the same car (essentially). The jury's still out on whether or not its worth it to have HIDs.
hater!
10-08-2003, 01:59 PM
#13
I like my AE. Don't get me wrong, I like the 02-03's, but no matter what you do to the them, there are only a limited number of AE's. I bought the Max because not everyone has one (ie Honda, Toyota) and the AE is just that much more exclusive. I don't have 255 HP, but I've got enough for me and a great car with some nice stuff on it. Just my .02 ...
10-08-2003, 02:00 PM
#14
Originally Posted by Jeff92se
Either a 2k2+ 3.5VQ or might as well just get a 4-gen.
So are you saying the 2k/1's are obsolete? Remember that each Max comes from its predecessor. Although the powerplant may be one of the more important features of a car, it is not the only feature that makes a car desireable.
10-08-2003, 02:05 PM
#15
Naw. If you got one in 00' or 01' w/o the knowledge or $ to buy a 3.5vq maxima, that's fine. But now that 3.5 maximas are available used and now that we know how powerful they are, it's different.
If one was to consider either at this present time, that is what I would do. Just my IMHO. Neither right or wrong.
Plus Coolmax has been contemplating a car purchase for 2 eons now.
If one was to consider either at this present time, that is what I would do. Just my IMHO. Neither right or wrong.
Plus Coolmax has been contemplating a car purchase for 2 eons now.
Originally Posted by AE SEoulchild
So are you saying the 2k/1's are obsolete? Remember that each Max comes from its predecessor. Although the powerplant may be one of the more important features of a car, it is not the only feature that makes a car desireable.
10-08-2003, 02:23 PM
#16
Donating Maxima.org Member
Join Date: Jun 2001
Posts: 341
emm I will tell you a secret lol. The fast guys are using the VQ30DE. People have more experience with this motor and it shows. Show me a turbo 3.5 I don't think there are any but it's your choice. Stock for stock is one thing but who keeps a car stock around here?
10-08-2003, 02:25 PM
#17
Originally Posted by SVTTODAMAX
emm I will tell you a secret lol. The fast guys are using the VQ30DE. People have more experience with this motor and it shows. Show me a turbo 3.5 I don't think there are any but it's your choice. Stock for stock is one thing but who keeps a car stock around here?
10-08-2003, 02:46 PM
#22
Senior Member
iTrader: (1)
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Manhattan Beach, Ca / Dallas, Tx
Posts: 3,751
Originally Posted by AE SEoulchild
I struggle with this decision everyday. I love my AE, but every now and then I envy the HIDs and 255HP. I want HIDs but not the 2k2/3 HIDs. I'll retrofit mine with an aftermarket HID kit. As far as the 255HP, I'm working on it. I suppose I'm close to 240HP now. Hey, working on it is the fun part.
10-08-2003, 02:52 PM
#23
Hmmmn....I have 2-3 different intakes, a STS, half a catback, JICs, a Stillen Aero kit, Cattman Ti-bar, and can pretty much get a y-pipe anytime I want for cheap.....yet the only thing currently on my car after almost 3yrs of being here is the STS. 
NO, I'm not kidding. The 2K-2K1 with 5spd is more then enough power to get me into SERIOUS trouble. The difference between my car and yours doesn't matter to me and if I want more power, I can go turbo or SC which you can't.
I could care less if I can keep up with a FUGLY '04 and a G35 is in a different class both cost and styling wise. Now IF I was to lose to a V6 Altima, I'd be a little butt sore, but then again, at least I can claim I've "only" got 222hp.
NO, I'm not kidding. The 2K-2K1 with 5spd is more then enough power to get me into SERIOUS trouble. The difference between my car and yours doesn't matter to me and if I want more power, I can go turbo or SC which you can't.
I could care less if I can keep up with a FUGLY '04 and a G35 is in a different class both cost and styling wise. Now IF I was to lose to a V6 Altima, I'd be a little butt sore, but then again, at least I can claim I've "only" got 222hp.
Originally Posted by MannyNJ2k2max
tell me you are kidding? Its the difference between
beating/ridding with an '04 max/g35 or following one-
beating/ridding with an '04 max/g35 or following one-
10-08-2003, 02:56 PM
#24
Senior Member
iTrader: (1)
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Manhattan Beach, Ca / Dallas, Tx
Posts: 3,751
Originally Posted by F23A4
If being able to run 14s stock and/or having Navi and/or having a 6sp manual is what you want then, the 2k2 SE is the way to go. If those three things dont matter, then I'd go for the 2k1 AE. Beyond those three factors, they're the same car (essentially). The jury's still out on whether or not its worth it to have HIDs.
10-08-2003, 03:09 PM
#26
OMG.....that hurt!
Originally Posted by SVTTODAMAX
Well as it stands now anyone in houston is invited to race me if you think your 3.5 can keep up. rofl Once it is all over you can comfort yourself knowing that you have a heated steering wheel.
10-08-2003, 03:23 PM
#27
Originally Posted by SVTTODAMAX
Well as it stands now anyone in houston is invited to race me if you think your 3.5 can keep up. rofl Once it is all over you can comfort yourself knowing that you have a heated steering wheel.
10-08-2003, 03:47 PM
#28
Originally Posted by IceY2K1
Hmmmn....I have 2-3 different intakes, a STS, half a catback, JICs, a Stillen Aero kit, Cattman Ti-bar, and can pretty much get a y-pipe anytime I want for cheap.....yet the only thing currently on my car after almost 3yrs of being here is the STS.
NO, I'm not kidding. The 2K-2K1 with 5spd is more then enough power to get me into SERIOUS trouble. The difference between my car and yours doesn't matter to me and if I want more power, I can go turbo or SC which you can't.
I could care less if I can keep up with a FUGLY '04 and a G35 is in a different class both cost and styling wise. Now IF I was to lose to a V6 Altima, I'd be a little butt sore, but then again, at least I can claim I've "only" got 222hp.
NO, I'm not kidding. The 2K-2K1 with 5spd is more then enough power to get me into SERIOUS trouble. The difference between my car and yours doesn't matter to me and if I want more power, I can go turbo or SC which you can't.
I could care less if I can keep up with a FUGLY '04 and a G35 is in a different class both cost and styling wise. Now IF I was to lose to a V6 Altima, I'd be a little butt sore, but then again, at least I can claim I've "only" got 222hp.
to try to be as fast as a 3.5-
My point is if he has the choice- then go for the better engine- dont worry SC/ Turbo's around the corner- and
the 3.5 is a better trade off than a manufacturers body kit-
5th gen w/ new more powerful engine is more appealing than a 5th gen w/old engine- plus the front grill is more masculine!
10-08-2003, 04:10 PM
#29
You missed my point of those mods still sitting in the garage and NOT installed, but oh well.
Anways, who do you think is going to make a SC for you? Nobody that I know of. Turbo is already available, only the returnless fuel system needs to be worked out.
Again, IF I cared about more power, I'd drop the difference in price between buying a used 2K1 AE and your car into a SC or turbo and be on a whole different performance level.
Front grille is more masculine? Jury is still out on the 2K2 bumper, grille, lower *****, and altessa wantabe tails. 
Lets just say, I wouldn't care about those things anytime soon. I would like the 2K2+ front bumper with a Stillen 2K-2K1 look alike front lip to cover up the ***** and a custom billet grille to cover the hamburger, but I can ALSO easily swap that to my car and still have change leftover.
The ONLY things I wish my 2K1 had that your car has is a 6th gear, not the drive-by wire tranny, hell no, just another gear added to MY 5spd..
Anways, who do you think is going to make a SC for you? Nobody that I know of. Turbo is already available, only the returnless fuel system needs to be worked out.
Again, IF I cared about more power, I'd drop the difference in price between buying a used 2K1 AE and your car into a SC or turbo and be on a whole different performance level.
Front grille is more masculine?
Jury is still out on the 2K2 bumper, grille, lower *****, and altessa wantabe tails. Lets just say, I wouldn't care about those things anytime soon. I would like the 2K2+ front bumper with a Stillen 2K-2K1 look alike front lip to cover up the ***** and a custom billet grille to cover the hamburger, but I can ALSO easily swap that to my car and still have change leftover.The ONLY things I wish my 2K1 had that your car has is a 6th gear, not the drive-by wire tranny, hell no, just another gear added to MY 5spd..
Originally Posted by MannyNJ2k2max
Yeah but i dont have to spend extra to beat you- all those mods just
to try to be as fast as a 3.5-
My point is if he has the choice- then go for the better engine- dont worry SC/ Turbo's around the corner- and
the 3.5 is a better trade off than a manufacturers body kit-
5th gen w/ new more powerful engine is more appealing than a 5th gen w/old engine- plus the front grill is more masculine!
to try to be as fast as a 3.5-
My point is if he has the choice- then go for the better engine- dont worry SC/ Turbo's around the corner- and
the 3.5 is a better trade off than a manufacturers body kit-
5th gen w/ new more powerful engine is more appealing than a 5th gen w/old engine- plus the front grill is more masculine!
10-08-2003, 04:30 PM
#30
I am going to let you peeps in on a little secret. I actually contemplated getting an AE before I decided to buy my '02. But by the time I checked out the price of the AE, there really wasn't much difference between the AE's price and the '02's price. Therefore, I went with the '02. 
10-08-2003, 05:05 PM
#31
You know, I've been reading the responses here all afternoon, and to tell you the truth....I'll tinker under the hood and what not and add HP and cosmetic mods just as long as it doesn't hit me too hard in the pocket. For example, I'll never add a supercharger or turbo to my car or buy $5k rims. It's kind of a hobby to me. If I really wanted a faster car, I would've bought a real sports car like the Z or something. But when it comes down to it, I wanted a Maxima. A Maxima that I can be proud of. Believe me when I say that all AE owner's have a certain feeling of satisfaction and pride knowing that their car is just a little more "special" than the others. Whenever we pick up our keys, we are reminded that ours is not a typical Maxima. I'm not saying this trying to be smug or conceited because I'm sure each of you are proud of your decision, but I kind of like being just a little bit different.
10-08-2003, 06:15 PM
#32
Wild at Hurt
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 580
just my 2 cents. I agree that the AE is very special. I had a 2001 non AE and put 85k on it before trading for my 03 which now has 22k on it. no warped rotors at 18k like my 01 had. I have to say that the 03 is a better car though none are going to have the AE status. A few big improvements and many subtle ones with the 02-03.
10-09-2003, 06:27 AM
#33
Originally Posted by IceY2K1
You missed my point of those mods still sitting in the garage and NOT installed, but oh well.
Anways, who do you think is going to make a SC for you? Nobody that I know of. Turbo is already available, only the returnless fuel system needs to be worked out.
Again, IF I cared about more power, I'd drop the difference in price between buying a used 2K1 AE and your car into a SC or turbo and be on a whole different performance level.
Front grille is more masculine? Jury is still out on the 2K2 bumper, grille, lower *****, and altessa wantabe tails. Lets just say, I wouldn't care about those things anytime soon. I would like the 2K2+ front bumper with a Stillen 2K-2K1 look alike front lip to cover up the ***** and a custom billet grille to cover the hamburger, but I can ALSO easily swap that to my car and still have change leftover.
The ONLY things I wish my 2K1 had that your car has is a 6th gear, not the drive-by wire tranny, hell no, just another gear added to MY 5spd..
Anways, who do you think is going to make a SC for you? Nobody that I know of. Turbo is already available, only the returnless fuel system needs to be worked out.
Again, IF I cared about more power, I'd drop the difference in price between buying a used 2K1 AE and your car into a SC or turbo and be on a whole different performance level.
Front grille is more masculine?
Jury is still out on the 2K2 bumper, grille, lower *****, and altessa wantabe tails. Lets just say, I wouldn't care about those things anytime soon. I would like the 2K2+ front bumper with a Stillen 2K-2K1 look alike front lip to cover up the ***** and a custom billet grille to cover the hamburger, but I can ALSO easily swap that to my car and still have change leftover.The ONLY things I wish my 2K1 had that your car has is a 6th gear, not the drive-by wire tranny, hell no, just another gear added to MY 5spd..
more power and something newer and maybe a 6-speed-
I dont have anything against the AE
(matter of fact thats the car that turned me into the 5th gens)- but why
get an older car for nearly the same money and less power?
2k2+ gets u nicer/lighter wheels (that the center cap doesnt discolor)and probably less paint chips since its a year newer!
10-09-2003, 06:45 AM
#34
Supporting Maxima.org Member
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Atlanta
Posts: 1,815
For you AE owners I have a few questions.
Was there any thing about the car that makes it different than any other 2001?
Are there parts used in the construstion of the car that can't be purchased and added to any 5th gen?
Was there better care used during the cunstruction of the car?
And lastly do you guy seem to find you have less problems with your car than the rest of us or do the same problems others have had plage you too?
Was there any thing about the car that makes it different than any other 2001?
Are there parts used in the construstion of the car that can't be purchased and added to any 5th gen?
Was there better care used during the cunstruction of the car?
And lastly do you guy seem to find you have less problems with your car than the rest of us or do the same problems others have had plage you too?
10-09-2003, 07:00 AM
#35
Originally Posted by PrinzII
I am going to let you peeps in on a little secret. I actually contemplated getting an AE before I decided to buy my '02. But by the time I checked out the price of the AE, there really wasn't much difference between the AE's price and the '02's price. Therefore, I went with the '02.
10-09-2003, 08:06 AM
#37
Originally Posted by blubyu2k2
this thread is BORING!!!
I would rather have a 2k1 AE Manual boosted, no a 2k2+ NA can't beat it without mods..........
10-09-2003, 08:54 AM
#39
http://www.autotrader.com/findacar/results.jtmpl?&model=MAX&start_year=2001&end_year= 2002&min_price=5000&max_price=50000&distance=100&c ertified=n&advanced=y&advcd_on=n&make=NISSAN&addre ss=44145&search_type=used&x=63&y=11&sort_type=year
15th car down is the AE...vs. everything above.
What I like about the AE is its exclusiveness, especially one with 5-spd; but I suppose that's all I like about it...HIDs, 3.5L, etc are too much to give up.
And I'll leave the manual tranny for a sports car.
15th car down is the AE...vs. everything above.
What I like about the AE is its exclusiveness, especially one with 5-spd; but I suppose that's all I like about it...HIDs, 3.5L, etc are too much to give up.
And I'll leave the manual tranny for a sports car.
10-09-2003, 10:04 AM
#40
I agree if they are the same price, might as well get the newer car. Even if it's just for the warranty and less wear.
I'm more coming from my car anyways vs. a 2K2. I've got a friend with a 350z and yes it's ok fast, but honestly NOT enough. However, I have rode in a boosted 4th gen. that's maybe pushing 6-7psi and untuned and *THAT* was FAAAAAAST! I'd take the power of a boosted 4th gen, hell 3rd gen. even, over a 2K-2K3(wouldn't consider a 2K4 EVER!), if I was only concerned about having more power.
I'm more coming from my car anyways vs. a 2K2. I've got a friend with a 350z and yes it's ok fast, but honestly NOT enough. However, I have rode in a boosted 4th gen. that's maybe pushing 6-7psi and untuned and *THAT* was FAAAAAAST! I'd take the power of a boosted 4th gen, hell 3rd gen. even, over a 2K-2K3(wouldn't consider a 2K4 EVER!), if I was only concerned about having more power.
Originally Posted by MannyNJ2k2max
My opinion is based on the buyers option of paying nearly the same amount of money for a 5th gen- so why not go with a 2k2 and have
more power and something newer and maybe a 6-speed-
I dont have anything against the AE
(matter of fact thats the car that turned me into the 5th gens)- but why
get an older car for nearly the same money and less power?
2k2+ gets u nicer/lighter wheels (that the center cap doesnt discolor)and probably less paint chips since its a year newer!
more power and something newer and maybe a 6-speed-
I dont have anything against the AE
(matter of fact thats the car that turned me into the 5th gens)- but why
get an older car for nearly the same money and less power?
2k2+ gets u nicer/lighter wheels (that the center cap doesnt discolor)and probably less paint chips since its a year newer!