Really had my heart set on a '01 MAX GLE and came sooooo close to getting one. But because my wife and I need to save money for a townhome, I'm thinking of going with a '01 Altima GXE. Sure it's a 4-cyl, but 155hp isn't bad. And looks aren't that bad either.

What I'm worried about is the Altima's reliability. Anyone here ever own one or could enlighten me about whether it's a dependable car?

Still depressed about not being able to get the Max though.

 

I owned a 94 altima from 1994-00. It was very reliable for the first 4 years, then after that I had problems with the fuel injections and a problem with starting it. so i got rid of it for a 98 maxima se with only 12,000 miles on it. when i got my altima , i was pissed off on not getting a maxima because it was such a nice car but a altima was very reliable, just take care of it. I was wondering why would you go from a maxima GLE to a Altima GXE. Why not a Altima SE. Is it the price. I understand because at that time I was also saving money for other stuff.

 

My advice is to get a 2 year old Maxima. These cars come back off lease clean with low mileage and have usually been gently used because the dealer smacks you with charges for any excessive wear and tear. You will get the balance of the factory warranty with the oportunity to get an extended warranty (not worth it, IMO). Shop around...since 1999 models sold quickly due to factory incentives, you will find a nice selection of '99 models to choose from.

You will get a larger, more powerful and roomy car for the same money. Your insurance rates will be lower for a 2 year old car also but check with your agent, they can give you quotes on a car before you buy it.

You don't mention fuel economy as a concern but this is the only real advantage the Altima has over the Maxima and I think the difference is negligible.

It sounds like you want a Maxima.....but if you really want a new car, that limits your choices.

Jim

 

I agree 100% w/ JJW95SC post above. The Altima is a good car that competes with the last gen Honda Accord and the like (My sister in law has a 94 w/ 100K). It has a peppy 4 cyl engine that loves to rev. Reliability is great and it is recommended by Consumer Reports. Only problems (in my opinion) are (1) lack of space, (2) lack of torque unles you really rev the thing, and (3) resale value. The car really does take a hit in depreciation compared to the MAx. Plus with the new model 1/2 years away that will inlcude a V6, it will depreciate even more. As for mileage, its nearly the same... insurance is quite a bit cheaper though. Either way, both cars should be free of mechanical problems...

 

My wife drives a 93 altima, and other than the freakin antenna not going back down, it's a reliable car. It's fun to drive every now and then since it's so small compared to the Max. Handles real well.

 

My second car was a 97 Altima. I got it in summer '99. Been driving it for about a year before I got my Max. Never had a single problem, my mom drives it now

 

Why don't you try getting a year end clearance maxima. It should be the same price as a 01 altima. Or try to get a demo maxima. I was in that same situation and I brought a year end clearance maxima instead of an altima. Maxima is worth more and better quality.

 

might wanna take this one to the altimas.net people...
and uh...get outta here!!!

hehehe....i heard altimas are 'good' cars...

 

I would say go with a 'pre-owned' Maxima as well.

 

I was looking at a New '99 Altima, and then found my '98 for the same price. I agree, go for a Maxima that's 1-2 years old.
I actually ended up getting my ex-wife a '98 Altima. She LOVES it and puts similar heavy mileage as I do on hers. What's funny is that I get better gas mileage in my maxima than she does in her altima (especially on the highway)...Why this is, I'm not sure, because she drives a hell of a lot more conservatively than I do. Insurance is within $75 between the 2 cars as far as premiums go. I might add, though, that given that we have the same year cars, I've had to put A LOT more $$ into mine as far as maintainance. I also think the independant rear suspension on her car offers a better ride. But there is no comparison when it comes to acceleration and overall engine power.

 

Advice? Don't race any maximas..

ZuM

 

I traded my 96 altima.I out 145000 on it and never had one single problem-except antenna not going down.I miss it.Iy was sweet and modded.I traded for a 97 se max with every option.I am glad to get the lower miles 42k max,but the altima was a fun car,

 

1) Wait for the new Altima coming out.
2) Get the pre-owned one a couple of years old.

etc, etc. Altimas are pretty reliable cars from what I've seen and heard. They offer a decent ride, but in my opinion, nowhere near the comfort of the Maxima's. I would go with the used Maxima if it's the ride that counts, but if it was me, I think I would wait for the new Altima. I like things new versus used since I know the history of the car.