I am going to be buying a car soon and will spend about 20-25k. I currently own a 92 se and love the car even though it has been troublesome(vtc's, windows, fuel injectors, maf sensor...). Are the newer maximas more reliable? I am considering maximas,300m,a-4, and acura. Performance, reliability and performance potential(mods) are important to me. Any opinions welcome. Also what model year of maxima is most proven?

 

I would definetely go for an 02 Maxima or an A4!!! They are both great cars, however I would get the Maxima before the A4, definetely in a 6spd, no more autos for me. Both of those would be a great choice, if you were going for something smaller you could get a WRX. Take Care

 

Well, I moved up from my 89' Max to my 96' back in 2000. So far it hasn't given me an ounce of trouble. I feel as though the car "feels" more reliable than my other one. I'm not afraid to drive it hard, for fear that anything would break. So far my only maintenance since I got it is oil changes and a tune up that wasn't really needed, but I did for good measure. You should be happy with a newer Max. Every car is going to have its fair share of trouble though.

 

Kinda curious which dealership would let a 6-spd A4 go in the 20-25 range. I'd pay 25 cash if it existed. Very wishful thinking as a demo with 15k miles wouldn't even go for 25.

For 20 grand I'd get a Toyota Matrix in a 6-spd. For a little more it's the RS-X, S if the 6-spd is needed. Otherwise the 5-spd is fine.

If a new Max comes out then the 2k2's are toast. Problem is you'll probably only be able to steal the autos. Ratio still seems to be around 2 6-spds for every 8-10 SE's on the lot.