Hey guys, Im from the 5th gen forum. I own a 2002 SE right now. Ive had one maxima before this, a 2000 SE 5spd. Im pretty dam sure that my next car is going to be a 6th gen max. I love the Maxima, and I cant find another car that offers all that the max does except if you pay double or triple the money. (only car I considered is the lexus is, solid reliability and great driving dynamics, but too small of a sedan) But my question is, anyone who came from a 5th gen to a 6th gen, what are the differences in driving dynamics? does it feel more stable, or more surefooted on corners? more "BMW" like? I like that way the car drives, but when pushed hard, cant match cars like the european sports sedans. (which I will never buy because of problems problems problems) So what do you think? What are it's weaknesses? Thanks (and i am not buying one until I find a 6speed because I HATE my auto with a passion)

P.S. (No, Im not a spoiled little brat that my parents buy my cars for me, no offense to anyone but a lot of people thought that. I fully pay for my cars)

 

I came from a 02 max...


and stock vs stock, the suspension on the 6th gen is far more firmer than the 5th gen. it deffinatly feels more stable for sure. it is a heavier car over the 5th gen, but once in it and you are pushing it to its limit, you won't feel the weight at all. the engine really moves the weight and it is not an issue at all..

you don't have to really get a 6 speed to get that feeling. the 6th gens have the automagic tranny that when you shift to it all your gears will go to almost redline just like a 6 speed, and is way faster than regular auto. you really feel the power in this engine with it, something the 5th gen didn't have(atleast mines didn't).

I love it, I miss my 02 cause I had a good experience with it, but this 6th gen will make you forget you past cars for sure.. if you wanna pimp it and not race it, you can also fit 22's on it!!! lol.. and even with 22's is still fast as hell!!!

 

wow this really makes me want to get this car soon. I have to wait until June at least, Ill have a great job by than and will be able to afford it much easier. I just dont wanna keep this car too far out of the 60,000 mile warranty. I really want a 6th gen now lol (ssshhh dont tell the 5th gen forum theyll kill me lol)

 

come onn....100 PEOPLE viewed this and not one can answer.....wow.

 

It is a night and fing day difference. It is bigger, faster, handles better, stops better, has more and better toys, comes on sorry tires and takes two acres to turn around. Oh wait, my AE came with sorry tires too, that may not be a change for you.

 

If you want a good driving experience (more "BMW" like?) get a G35. The 6th gen is still fwd and drives like it. The IRS is much better than the solid axle of the 5th gen but the 5th gen handled great. I have done the same things to both 5th gens I had and now my 6th gen and the 5th gens handled better IMO.

I say this because when on the edge of adhesion the 6th gen is either over or understeering, the balance is much harder to obtain. Many here don't drive that fast so they would never notice it.

I base this from having a 2001 a 2003 now a 2005 Maxima. They all had springs and swaybars.

 

well I really wanted to stay true to the maxima. I love G35's but the price is more also. I drove a few before at my work and it drove nice, and sounded great too. Ill give it a thought though. really leaning toward the max though. Like the Maxima is just..unique, when someone hears maxima they think of hidden performance (sleeper) they see an inifinity and expect it to perform. when you see a maxima embarass a higher end car its way more impressive.

 

Dude, my car is rock solid, fun to drive and yes a sleeper, all Nissan dealerships offer a free test drive, pull up and ask???

 

I like my 05' way better than my 02'. IMHO it's beter all the way areound

 

I recommend that you test drive the Max with both the auto trannie and the 6-speed. I did and went with the 6-speed and continue to love it. An auto trannie (even with tiptronic) will continue to think for you (and not let you make certain decisions). In snow I like to start in 2nd gear to reduce wheel spin (auto will not do this). I have even been known to start in 3rd gear (slipping the clutch) just to keep from spinning the drive wheels. When the time comes to change trannie fluid, the auto trannie will only let you change about half of the fluid. With the 6-speed, you just open the drain and it all comes out (which you should do at no later than 30 K miles).

I did not have a 5th gen Max, so can't help you with the comparison. My only complaint with the 6 gen is the RSA tires. I replaced mine early (at 30 K miles) to get better shoes on her. Otherwise has been a great car (and I have the "dreaded" early 2004 -- bought in May of 2003).

 

Mine is in the planning stages. Still enjoying my '97 SE.