Hey all. I'm thinking of purchasing or leasing either a new Maxima or an Audi A4. I was wondering what led you to choose the Maxima over what ever else you happened to be considering?

Also, what are some fairly simple, yet effective modifications that can be done to these cars, and what are the performance improvments? Keep in mind that this will be a year-round driver for me.

Oh yeah, it will probably most likley be a Super Black SE, 5-speed, leather, and everything except the splash gaurds.

 

i was looking into an A4 and a max. with the a4 you get the luxury of an euro car but u pay alot more. the 1.8t has a higher potential if you plan to mod it alot, as opposed to the 2.8, but either way, if you get the a4 i suggest u get them with the quattro other wise no point. (imo) the maxima on the other had is alotta car for it's price. you get alotta features for the less as opposed to an A4, i forgot what but things such as heated front seats, electronic trunk open, lights are automatic, powered seats, leather is real nice in the max, and a much roomier interior. the a4 is still a nice car, but if money isn't the issue then get the s4. haha. i prefer max over a4's less ppl my age have the max as opposed to the a4..

 

The only reason I chose Maxima over A4 2.8 back in '98:
Cheaper, I got a fully loaded GLE for $25k, the A4 2.8 equally equipped will be in low 30's. The Maxima was really the best bang for $25k at that time, it still is today for its' price.

What A4 has over Maxima:
1) it's a luxury brand, which very likely leads to a better ownership experience. I can't comment on Audi since I don't have one, but the Nissan dealer treated pretty $hitty to be honest with ya.
2) Quattro available. Hey it got banged from racing event in Europe for a reason (I think I just made Jim W's day)
3) being able to get options like xenon and GPS, of course it costs extra money but at least you have the choices.

So basicly it's a case of you get what you pay for, you make your own call whether the A4 is worth the extra money to you.
Performance wise they should be very close. Now if you get the 1.8 turbo A4, it's more moddable.

 

My Dad has a A4 2.8 quattro, '97 to be exact. I have driven both and have come to the fact that Nissan is the way to go.
The A4 from a racing aspect has a different feel, clutch, shifter, and gas pedal. All these did not seem to be as tight and percise as the Maxima. Due to the all-wheel the Audi will be alittle slower but a few aftermarket parts should fix that right quick.

There is a little difference in money but I bought my car because I wanted one of the best engines ever built. The car
takes to mods very easy and also requires very little maintenance. The new 2Ks don't need any tune-up till 100K(I think)...just fluids and filter...gotta love that. The car is very light for a 4-door, with a intake and y-pipe the car should be lots of fun. New for this year in the Anniversary Edition is limited-slip, something that we all have been waiting for.

The only thing I can tell you is to drive both. The feel of the car when you are in the drivers seat will make your choice. One other item that slips everyones mind is up-keep? How much will it cost to keep this car on the road? If you are spending lots of money at the dealer then there will be none left for GO-FAST parts. I am sure that you will make the correct *NISSAN* decision.

Check out my site for personal Maxima links, also all the aftermarket items that are available.