Recently, I put on KYB-AGX struts/shocks with H&R springs (along with new axles), and Motivational rear mounts (works!). The ride is FANTASTIC--what the SE Maxima should have been to begin with. Even being on OEM 15" rims and high profile tires, the car handles like a BMW. I will have some comparison profile pics later on...
I've done quite a bit of interior cosmetics: AE shift knob, walnut dash, JVC KD-SH99 MP3 player, 97 center console (much better cup holder and higher armrest!), I30 console tray, chrome inner door levers/nobs, blue/yellow window switch LEDs (that was fun to do), blue security light, and chrome gauge rings. Next is an auto-dim mirror with compass and temp.
Exterior speaks for itself (the grille is from CustomMaxima--I think it really gives this older 4th gen a nice look). I would like to put a body kit on, but... by the time I'm ready to do it I'll probably be driving a newer car. I've had this Maxima since new, coming up on my 9th year anniversary. The new suspension is yet again going to extend my ownership. :-D
FRONT/SIDE/REAR
INTERIOR
Yes, those ARE painted Altezzas. Personally, I find chromed altezzas ok when used on white or silver cars, otherwise they're just plain ugly. I decided to paint mine to match my car's body color, to give it more of a "Skyline" look. Yes, it's not exactly the look, but I needed to include the side markers to ensure DOT compliance. I think it came out pretty well and over time I'm getting to like them more. But I have to admit if I could get a pair of OEM quality clear/red tails, I'd take those instead.
THE NEW 6th gen Maxima:
Although I didn't find enough of a difference between the 4th and 5th gens, I did take notice of the 6th gen. I test drove an SE with tiptronic. This was an amazing experience. I guess in 9 years the technical improvements begin to add up. The stock SE suspension is decent. Maybe just a little uncontrolled on uneven/bumpy road surfaces while cornering, but good enough for most people. This engine PULLS! Amazing to get 260hp with 20/27 mpg rating. Only drawback--some noticeable torque steer. Interior integrity is GREAT. The center split sunroof option is unique, but not being able to open it is a major drawback IMHO. The SL Elite rear seat is novel, but you lose the 5th person and fold-down rear seating. Climate & accessory controls are now through this central LCD screen, as well as the sound system. Works well, but forget about a custom sound system (unless you want 2 HU's to drive your speakers and a custom hack to the center console).
But for the price, you have to look at the Infiniti G35. I just test drove it and... well, the handling is noticeably better. It is RWD afterall. Doesn't have the torque steer problem of the Maxima. It's a smaller car, by a few cubic inches. Less of a family car and more of a couples/single person car that needs 4 doors. It DOESN'T have fold-down rear seats, like the 4th gen. :(
Now I have to test drive it for comparison to my new suspension!
