Well i really want a 4th gen but for a good one you need to spend like 7,000-8,000 for a 95 or 96. So i think getting a thrid gen would be better since you can get a nice one for about 4,000 which i could afford with my crappy part time job. I know i want a 5 speed but i really know nothing about 3rd gens. I would like to get a 92-94 i guess. Which year is the fastest? What are some common problems that the car has, like what to look for if i am looking at one? Which trim level is the best? I just need some general info please and since their is no thrid gen FAQ here i need to ask.Thanks.

 

If you want the fastest, get a 92-94 SE five speed. Common problems will be window regulators, VTCs and exhaust studs.

BTW:

https://maxima.org/maxfaqs/index.shtml

 

92-94 SE's are the fastest with the 190 HP VE engine, all other third gens have the 160 HP VG engine. Make sure that you get a five speed, 3rd gen trannys are very weak and are almost gurranteed to fail. Watch out for the VTC's in the VE engine. Let us know what you end up getting.

 

3rd gen AUTO are very weak and are almost gurranteed to fail.

I've heard that the later models (92+) are a little stronger but I dont know for sure. To prolong the life, many add tranny coolers

 

yeah, i need a cooler. Texas weather is brutal. Any suggestions? I heard hayden is a good brand.

 

I have a Hayden cooler that I bought at Pep Boys, it's the smallest one they make since I live in Colorado. If you live in a cold climate it's good not to get a really big one so that the tranny can heat up faster.

 

So you think it is possable to get one in good condition with decent miles for about 4,000?

 

The VE five speeds are usually hard to find, especially ones with low miles. You will be able to find with for 4k but it will most likely be above 100k. However, you can always settle for the VG engine which will probably be easier to find with low mileage.

 

I am pretty much just looking for a car that is cheap, wont kill me on insurance, is realiable, looks decent, but is still somewhat fast and has a decent aftermarket. And the maxima seems to fit the bill.

 

aftermarket supply sucks on our cars, but the 92-94SE is faster than damn near any import you can buy for the price.

i.e. with my $2800 93SE and $500 in toys, I have outran almost every non-turbo import that has tried to race me- with the exception of a few on the bottle, and stuff you KNOW you can't beat anyway..

 

You only paid 2,800 for you 93? is it in good condition? decent milage? O and do you know the 0-60 and 1/4th mile times for a 92-94 5 speed?