I've been scoping out the 5th generations, and I'm wondering what the difference is in performance from the 226HP 3.0, versus the 255HP 3.5VQ is...

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I really like the 2000 SEs, and are a lot cheaper than the 2002-2003 Maximas....

The headlights off the 2002-2003 Maximas seem to be a hit for thefts.. how much are the housings costing? Are they easy to install? I've noticed that people have been refraining from posting instructions on how to convert from halogens to Xenons..

Thanks...
Josh

 

In stock format, the '02-03 are faster. yes, the hid's seem to be a bit of a problem for the NE owners. This is why if you chosse to buy a 2000-01, you should stick with halogens.

 

the 2k-2k1s have 222 hp and 217 tq. Bone stock the 3.5 engine has much more power and torque than the 3 liter engine. The replacement HIDs for 2k2+ owners are not cheap. It's over $1000 for replacements.

 

The 3.5 in the '02+ is a big jump in power! I prefer the power of the 3.5 to the 3.0, and is important enough for me to buy a '02+. The 3.0 is lacking the 3.5s torque big time.

 

I've got to echo what everyone else is saying. The 3.0L VQ is a fantastic motor but the 3.5L has a ton more grunt.

 

lol I'm being encouraged- what's the lowest price people have seen for a 6-speed MTX for a 2002-03

 

My brother paid 22k drive out for his.But good luck in finding one though.

 

In October of '01, I test drove an end season '01 SE (3.0), and was very impressed, but I hesitated. Then I went to a dealer that had the new (then) '02 SE 3.5 liters. WOW! Bought the car on the spot. Sounds like you've already made up your mind, just thought I'd add my $.02.
Good luck w/your search.

 

..unless you go on Ebay and repurchase your stolen lights!

 

Did you do that?

 

HECK NO!!! I'd rather drive my car without headlamps than contribute to the cause of those delinquents!!!

 

I've gotta agree with what everyone else has said. To make a long story short...I had a 2000 SE with the 3.0 engine for about a month, got out of that car and into a 2003 SE with the 3.5. There's no comparison.

 

I agree as well my old 97 and 01's were night to day compared to my 03. It just has so much more grunt (noticeable) at all speeds.

 

That makes me paranoid that people would steal HEADLIGHT assemblies. I swear I'd put 10,000 volt electrical field around both headlight assembles, and any metal-conducting part of the car.. and I'd let them fry, then laugh for being stupid enough to steal from me...

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It's disgusting that people can't buy their own $hit.. excuse my language.
I just feel bad for people who have to spend the extra money for replacements because there are so many ignorant people out there.

 

Just got a 2K2 SE 6 spd with 8200 mi. for $18.7K. Think I got a pretty fair deal.

Sed

 

...then that's where the ACLU lawyers show up to sue you for being a hazard to the thief whose trying to maintain his "livelihood" by acquiring your HIDs.

 

Just got a 2K2 SE 6 spd with 8200 mi. for $18.7K. Think I got a pretty fair deal.

Sed