Nissan Maxima
Once marketed as the "4-Door Sports Car," the Maxima carved its niche as a practical FWD sedan that offered enthusiasts a potent V6 and an available 5-speed manual. It's this unique combination of performance and usability that defines its legacy for collectors.
Find one with Spotter →Nissan Maxima sold for a median of $3,457 over the last 12 months, based on 20 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $1,590 and $5,550. 444 currently for sale.
Nissan Maxima Submodels
The Nissan Maxima began in 1981 as the Datsun Maxima, a RWD successor to the 810. It wasn't until the 3rd generation's 1989 debut that it became Nissan's famed "4-Door Sports Car." This FWD sedan paired a smooth V6 with a taut chassis and an available 5-speed manual, creating a formula that resonated with enthusiasts looking for a practical performance car. Subsequent generations, particularly the 4th and 5th, continued this legacy with the legendary VQ-series V6 engine.
Collectors focus on specific models that best represent the 4DSC ethos. The 3rd generation (1989-1994) is prized for its lightweight design and balanced handling. The 5th generation, specifically the 2002-2003 models, is also highly sought after for its potent 255 hp VQ35DE engine paired with a rare 6-speed manual transmission. These models offer an engaging analog experience that's hard to find in modern sedans.
The market for the Maxima is broad, reflecting its 40-year history as both a family hauler and an enthusiast sedan. The average transaction price of around $8,000 is dominated by used daily drivers. However, well-preserved, low-mileage examples with manual transmissions can command prices over $20,000, proving there's a small but dedicated collector market for the best-of-breed cars.
Buying Tips
- Manual transmissions are rare and significantly increase a car's value and driving fun. Test the 5-speed and 6-speed cars for clutch slip and synchro health.
- VQ35DE engines in 2002+ models can suffer from timing chain guide failure, a costly repair. Listen for a rattling sound at startup.
- Rust is a common issue, especially on cars from snowy climates. Inspect the rear wheel wells, rocker panels, and under the trunk seal.
- On 3rd generation models (1989-1994), test all functions of the digital dashboard and sonar-adjustable suspension, as repairs can be difficult and expensive.
Prices range from just $260 for parts cars to $31,000 for exceptional collector-grade examples.
964 Nissan Maxima vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 444 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nissan Maxima cost?
Over the last 12 months, Nissan Maxima sold for a median of $3,457 across 20 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $1,590 and $5,550. There are 444 currently for sale.
How many Nissan Maxima listings are for sale right now?
There are 444 Nissan Maxima listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.