I owned a first gen. the one with the talking lady. It was okay and cool back then but nothing special.
I thought the 3rd gens looked pretty smooth. Took a few rides in one, Nice leather seats and interior.
Bought a 4th gen back in 97, and will never part with the car.
Didnt like the looks of the 5th gens, but a few years later it grew on me. would take a 2003 model
6th gen's dont know what to say, im sure its a great car
Bottom Line: my 97 and the 03 Maxima SE's both manual. those are the best to me. I would love the extra horses.