I have the opportunity to buy a new left-over 2001 SE from the same dealer that I bought my 98 SE 4 years ago. The 2001 SE has the same options as my 98 (security & convenience package as the only major option) but has the standard ABS that I'd really like. The extra HP is nice as well, but my 98 is running superbly right now. My 98 has 66K miles on it and has been garaged every day since new and I've done the following major mods to it:
Cattman Gen2 Stainless Y
Stillen hi-flow intake
H&R/Tokico
Courtesy FSTB&RSTB
I can get the 01 SE for 800 UNDER invoice and they tell me that they'll give me a sweet deal on my trade since I bought it there and they really want to get rid of the 01 SE.
What do you think? I use the car for commuting back & forth to work and I don't race anyone anymore (I'm getting old!).

 

Unless you like bigger payments, and more insurance, I would say stay with the 98. Save up and buy yourself a 2002 6-speed.

....now if they weren't so ugly....

 

EXACTLY.

Please sir, keep your '98. Especially if it's superblack. Those 00+ taillights are just don't tickle my fancy too much.

You know your '98 is nice, and with a mere 66K it will last you forever. (the way you say your treaten it) And with those mods, forget about a 2k.

Keep your 4th generation.

 

Keep you '98.
If you MUST upgrade, then go with a 6-speed 2002 SE!

 

I normally wouldn't think of going to the 01 unless it was a complete steal of a deal. The dealer quoted my 800 OVER invoice on the 2K2 and I'd also miss out on the $500 rebate from Nissan on the 01 for a grand total difference of $1300 off the bottom line.

 

yup .. despite popular belief around here.. 5th Gen's are that much faster than 4th Gens

 

5th Gen's "ARE" that much faster than 4th, or aren't??

 

they're not. stick with the 98.

 

yup about .1 secs faster .. BIG AMOUNT AROUND HERE

 

You know, I think I could go to the head before my run and gain .1 sec on my 1/4

 

ItchyRichy, if you have an automatic, do not upgrade. 00-01 auto's don't redline, therefore are slower. If you are manual, you are like the same, but with much better styling IMHO.

BTW, I suggest you get some diamond clear corners as your next mod!

 

 

hmmm you know, the ****er or ****ter?? Just isn't as vulgar calling it the head... lol Maybe I should just say the little boys room??

 

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....taking a crap...losing .1....... I've never heard of anyone calling it "the head"

At first i thought you were talking about you were getting head

 

LMAO You know, depending on the ounce loss that could work too??? LOL

 

Hahahahahaha!

 

Don't forget about resale value, you will get a few more grand for a 02 then you would a 01 in 4 or 5 years. I personaly would not bother changing from a 98-01, I say go for a nice new 02 or keep your 98.

 

Don't think I ever gave my opinion, but I agree with Ethan. Just wait till you can get the 2002 6pd or even wait to see the 6th Gen?? Since your 98 is running good just enjoy it and keep your money

Oh, by the way, I know several dealers and I about 90% of the time you are going to get SCREWED on your trade in!!! lol And they will make you think you are getting a good deal LOL

Good Luck to you

 

Keep saving a while longer and get a 2K2 - keep the '98 as your "winter beater"

 

You've already invested your time in money into the 98, keep it, it sounds awesome and you only have 66k.

 

I agree with all the above statements
besides that dealer isn't even giving you the best deal, when pushed against the wall most nissan dealers WILL sell the 02 Max at invoice price... Seems like Joe Q Public still doesn't know much about our cars hehehe.

 

Based on what i have read in mags and having driven both 4th (auto) and 5th(5-spd and auto) maxes you should take into account the subtle changes in the suspension and chassis. I find that the suspension and chassis upgrades for the 5th gen creates a better handling feel. Remember that springs and shocks aren't the only part of the suspension.