A friend of a good friend is selling a 2003 Infiniti G35 sedan, with 204k for $3500. It's in good condition and I love the look of the car. My last car was a 96' maxima, automatic, which I loved, and can barely part with but it's @ 297k with issues, so it's time.

I was originally set on buying the G35 but, realized I could get less miles with an older Maxima. When I look for comparable G35's I barely see any for sale. Is that because they are so beloved that owners don't often sell them. Please advise. $3500 is the most I want to spend, and a good Maxima go for 1k less.

Which would you get, 4th Gen Max, 5.5 Gen Max, or Infiniti G35?

 

If RWD is a selling point, then you know the answer. If its not a big deal, then you could go with a 5.5 or a 4th, as I have/had both and loved them.

 

Thanks andoneA32!

I did not know that the G35 had RWD. I did some research on RWD and it seems to be better for perfomance and weigh distribution. That was an important factor that I didn't know about. Definitely leans me toward the G35. Thanks again for your input.

 

If I was buying a G35 I would only touch the 07-08 models with the HR motor. The RWD is a huge plus as well but it will cost more to upkeep than a maxima

 

@george...What costs are associated with RWD?

 

Beats me... I was talking about parts, insurance, fuel economy, tires etc

 

Lol. Thanks.

 

When I was researching these cars came to mind

Subaru Legacy GT
Acura TL
Infiniti G35 w/ HR motor
Infiniti G37
Regal GS

At this stage the Maxima generations you are looking at are leaning more towards fixer uppers. I know from experience the gen 5.5 can have a ton of maintenance woes but again they're ~14 year old cars

 

I went with a 2002 Maxima with 154K. It's got a power steering leak but then engine is strong and it flys like the wind. I look forward to adding another 154K to the odometer.

Thanks fellas!!

 

Congrats!!

 

We had a 2003 Maxima SE Titanium Edition since new and with 126,000 gave it to my nephew and still going strong and looking good. Love the 5.5 Gen.

 

2002 maxima was the right choice :P

 

4th gen with 3.5L + 6spd swap.

Best of both worlds = lighter body, more power(3.5L), good mpg(6spd), without the WACK 5th gen steering radius.

 

It really doesn't get any better than this. 5th gens are agile vs most cars out there of the same age, but the 4th gen just feels more agile.

 

I do have to say that the 5th gens feel more stable at 120+mph

Well ideally (in my mind) the 4th gen MAXIMA SSE (SuperSE) impossible dealer factory upgrade option would have included the following to help balance the car out even more besides 3.5L+6spd:

Nistune
SUPERCHARGER
i30 Dash
G35 front seats that hold you in
6th gen Front Brakes

if they don't make it, build it yourself
the beauty of MODDING to achieve your goals

 

You should try a 3rd gen, you're comparing land yachts



I think the maxima was a good choice. Hard to be super critical of any of them. Congrats on the purchase, I think you'll really enjoy it. The 2003 Maxima has a special place in many members hearts.

 

interesting....please elaborate.... sometimes mine feels really...bulky