I am just wondering how everyone thinks the new Max is going to stack up against the G35. I've checked out a couple of G35 sites, and it looks like they have some hot stuff coming out for the sedan next year. The two things that grabbed my attention were a 6spd MT (Feb-Mar. 2003), and an AWD version w/280 hp. I must admit that the G35 is tough. I can't wait to see what the new Max is going to look like though. One of the two will definitely be my next purchase. But what does everyone else think? Will the new max be worth the wait? What type of engine will it have (same as the M45)? I have also heard that Nissan went back to the drawing board after the photos of the new Max were posted on the web by our friend in CA who did an excellent job of catching one on the road. I personally think that is a good thing though, as I did not like that style at all. It seemed to be moving in a non-sporty direction...sort of bland like an Avalon. But I am sure that the handling would be tight though. Has anyone heard the same? Just wondering...

 

I'm almost certain that Nissan is going to keep the design of the Max that it had earlier this year. People like us on the org who didn't like the design account for less than 10% of maxima owners so our opinions don't matter that much to Nissan (just ask the 5th gen guys about their gripes over the 15hp "over statement"). If I were you, I would buy a Max because you get 90% of the G35 level of performance for thousands less. Just my two cents.

 

AWD on the maxima????? any links?

 

I don't think Nissan would "overstate" horsepower.
Remember when Mazda overstate their Miata a few years ago by about 10 horsepower? They had to recall thousands of them to modify them to get more power.

If they sell the Maxima at 255HP and it doesn't make 255HP, there is huge legal grounds for a class action lawsuit.

I would doubt that the Maxima would get AWD because that would really cut into the sales of the G35 because the G35 doesn't have AWD. My guess it that the Maxima will simply be a structural duplicate of the new Altima with a mildly stretched wheelbase and different body panels and different dashboard style.

And would likely have more low dollar cheaper interior materials than even the 5th generation. I just sat in a new 350Z and G35 and the dash parts seem like they would be more at home in a Chevrolet. No way they would make the "lower class" Nissan look better or even as good inside. I'm not saying that the newer Infinitis and Nissans generations are not built as tight. I just think they are built tighter but still using even cheaper materials.

 

He is saying that the G35 will have an AWD option and 280HP engine. Not the Maxima. I think if you can afford it, get the G35. Better dealer experience and probably sportier.

 

I hope to save enough money to get a 350Z or G35 down the road but I just can't stop mod my max right now...

 

well Nissan IS changing the 04 Maxima. It WILL be different. Its gonna be a new body style and maybe engine? My .02 is slightly larger, FWD or AWD 280hp VQ35DE-K? maybe

 

I think that since nissan is using the same platform for the maxima as in the G35, Z and Alty, they will make it RWD, probably with more horses but more weight as well.

 

The 04 Maxima will still come standard as a FWD with an AWD option, it will not be RWD. Between 265-275 HP and only slightly larger than the Altima. It will not be RWD, but it won't be the size of a Crown Vic either. No RWD because why would you buy a G35? The 04 or 05 G35 will have a choice of RWD or AWD and all versions will make 280HP like the coupe. To me, it looks like Nissan is becoming a FWD,AWD company and Infiniti is becoming a RWD, AWD company. Every new platform that they have released appears to support AWD. My best guess, but to me its what makes the most sense.

 

WOW an AWD Max, that should take the 0-60 to 5's and 1/4 to low 14's
What are you Honda guys gonna do now??? HA

 

I wouldn't be so sure. AWD adds a lot of weight.

 

i thought 6spd 2k2s were already runnin low 14s

 

...will be a softer version of:

The Infinity M45
4.5 liter
340 HORSEPOWER
333 lbs ft TORQUE

I hope.

 

what do you call the 350Z?

 

A legendary brand name, revived to add substance/credibility to the still somewhat tarnished Nissan product line. However, it has more in common with the Infiniti line than anything else in the Nissan stable. Not sure I would have made the Z and the G Coupe soooo similar, but thats why I can't get a job at NNA.

 

For the '04 Maxima to at least have awd as an option for several reasons.

From a marketing standpoint, Nissan really needs to differentiate the Maxima from the Altima. Having awd and a bit more power(at the wheels!hehe) would help the Maxima step out from the Altima's shadow.

The G35 doesn't have the option of awd right now, but it would certainly be possible since it comes that way in Japan. The Skyline(can't remember the model name) is available with awd and 272hp.

 

Actually I heard from a dealer that the Max will be different than the one that was spied. So I would say that it is a safe bet.

 

Bollido2000 was right. I was saying that the G35 is coming out with an AWD option. If the Max ends up being a just a stretched Altima in FWD form then then it would essentially be less appealing than the Altima right?

 

I was kind of thinking the same thing. That would only make sense. That way it would stand apart from the Altima. If that happened I would definitely get the Max over the G35. I guess we'll see in a couple of months though.

 

the Max would probably become more $expensive$ then the G35...i'm thinking the max willl be around $40k