1997 Nissan Maxima Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.59/5 Average
123 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Nissan Maxima gets a new grille, headlights, bumpers and taillights. New alloy wheels and foglights on the SE, new wheel covers on the GXE and new aluminum wheels on the GLE round out the changes.

Pros:
  • High levels of luxury and performance for thousands less than comparable sedans
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 123.00
  • 2 Maximas in a row! - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Bought car with 70,000 miles and in 6 months I have put 18,000 on it and still going. I had to replace the A/C Condenser because berrings were worn on the pulley ($800) - made a horrible noise. This is my second Maxima and I could not be happier. I have gotten 32 MPG on good highway stretches. I may jump to a G35 in a few years just because they look better than the 04 Maxima.

  • Fun, Reliable, and Economical - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    At 170,000 miles, my Maxima SE 5-speed is still running strong. Average 27mpg is great and the car is still fast and fun to drive. The reliability of this car is outstanding; however the suspension and steering are less than adequate. I cant think of a better value.

  • What a great car. - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    If you are looking for a new 4 door sedan look no further than the Nissan Maxima. This is my third one and they really do not have any problems. Time will be the only thing that slows one down. Mileage, power, comfort, etc. its all there. I never get in my maxima and wonder if it is going to start.

  • i love my maxima - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    I purchased my 1997 Nissan Maxima GLE almost 1 year ago and I am so happy with my decision. I had a 4 cylinder honda and the maxima is a 6, i will never go back to a 4 after this maxima. I purchased tme max with 38,000 miles, the car was like new. It runs amazing, drives very well, great acceleration and handling.I love everything about the car, the mechanics and also the interior... the leather, heated seats, moonroof, BOSE stereo (great quality sound system).

  • Fun & Reliable - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Mine is 3rd Maxima in my family. All have been great for us. No major problems in 5+ years. Fun to drive, plenty of room for people and cargo, extremely reliable. Great in snow, sun, rain, whatever.

  • Solid and Fun - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    This is an older car, but there are no squeeks or rattles even after five years. The trim has held up extremely well (leather seats). It looks new on the inside. The car handles well for a family sedan and the engine is silky smooth and exciting. The fuel economy is bad - about 14mpg city. Part of the problem is my lead foot. Highway mileage is good at 29mpg. The real problem is that it requires premium fuel (92 octane or better). I will buy another maxima when this one gets tired.

  • 1997 Maxima SE - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Nice Car. If I had to do it again, I would opt for the Infiniti I30 and get the addl perks at the dealership and more comfort. This Maxima however, has proven to be a reliable car. With all the freeway miles on it, I expect this car to last to at least 150K without any problems. If youre considering buying a used car, you cant go wrong but look into a comparably priced I30. You may get more bang for your buck.

  • good - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    so far so good.

  • 4DSC - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    I bought my 97 SE with a 5 speed manual trans in 2006 with approximately 90K miles. The car appealed to me for a variety of reasons: silky 3.0 liter V6, plush creature comforts, impressive factory Bose unit and the relative ease of finding a reasonably priced variant with a proper 3rd pedal. I certainly indulged in a bit of wrench time - Koni struts, Eibach springs, Centerforce clutch, front/rear Brembo cross drilled rotors and a few Stillen add-ons - that greatly increased the pleasure of being behind the wheel, but the car was a solid, quick-ish workhorse even with the OEM equipment. Be mindful of rust and leaks (oil, coolant, etc.), but Ill miss the old girl when I trade her in this week

  • Best Car - 1997 Nissan Maxima
    By -

    Ive had Toyotas, Acuras, BMWs, Fords, and finally this Nissan. It is hands down the best car Ive ever owned. It is rewarding to drive, roomy, comfortable, frugal, and VERY reliable. Ive had absolutely no problems, and there is hardly any preventative maintence (unlike Hondas and Toyotas). Ive owned Integras and Tercels and this Nissan is actually much cheaper to own and operate then both of those.

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