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The Nissan Maxima | ||||
The Nissan Maxima (basically an upscale 810) was introduced in 1981 as a four-door family car powered by a modified version of the 240Z 2.4L inline 6cyl. This version had electronic fuel injection whereas the 240Z had carburetors). It also featured four wheel independent suspension, which for 1981 was a big deal for an affordable family sedan.
In 1985, the second generation Maxima appeared. This one is a FWD four door (as all Maxima's from here on) with a VG30E (again from the Z-car, this time the 300ZX). This is a very boxy design. In 1989 the Maxima was redesigned again, with more curved lines. The SE version in 1992 had a higher output V6 - 190hp compared to the standard 160hp V6.
1995 saw the next redesign. This car received an engine all it's own - the highly regarded VQ30DE. Still rated at 190hp, it is a better engine in all areas than the the VG. This is an all-aluminum engine, compared to the aluminum head/ iron block of the earlier VG series V-6's) Further rounded styling continued
Y2K brought the 2000 Maxima. Loosely based on the old mechanicals, the new car is significantly upgraded. First and formost is the VQ30DE-K ("kaizen", meaning "improved") 3.0L V6. Output is bumped to 222hp@6400rpm -the same as the 1990-later non-turbo 300ZX, although an entirely different engine. The chassis is extensively strengthened as well. The only affordable family sedan offered with a V-6 and 5-speed, it has sporting capability the Accord and Camry cannot match.
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| This site last updated Thursday, November 19, 2009 | |||||
