Should I trade my max for an '02

[lordrashmi]

Hey guys, I just want to get you guys opinion on something I am considering doing.

Currently, I have a 99 GLE, Tan with Tan leather and 57K miles on it. I do like it, but it is 4 yrs old and there are some minor problems it is encountering. I owe $13,846 on it so I doubt I would be in the black when I trade it in.

The car I am looking at is an '02 GLE, Black with Tan leather and 36K miles on it for $22,998.

What I like is:
1. Its newer ( so probably less mechanical problems).
2. Black is a sweet color.
3. Newer bodystyle which I think looks great.
4. More Power (65 more HP and 41 more lb. torque)

What I don't like:
1. I lose the money/time I have invested in my current car.
2. I will be paying car off for 5 years instead of the 2.5 I have left now.
3. Insurance will go up.

Bottom line, is it worth it? I am just trying to get some opinions from fellow Max lovers...

[KeGrO]

i drive an 02 se very often, its auto, but its still a nice ride, i haven't driven a 4th gen so i can't compare, but i would just wait 2 1/2 years until your car is paid off. thats just me, with the economy going to crap there should be alot of other new maximas for sale, but unless your future is secure, i wouldn't do it

[lordrashmi]

I cut and pasted the price from the wrong listing (D'oh!) it is for $19,998...

What I really need to do is go drive it and see if the difference is worth it.

[Paonessa]

dude, yesterday i drove out to connecticut and traded in my 95 se and bought a fully loaded(except dvd) champagne colored 02 se 6 speed and i couldn't be happier. it has 32,000 miles and i got it for $20,000 even. if it's within your means, i say go for it

[chillinMax]

well, yeah, it may be nice, but another 5 years of car bills...Your 99 is still a great car with very low miles on it. I'd say wait it out until its paid off...or if you can sell it for a good price rather than just trade it in. You could probably get about 13+ out of it rather than the dealer's 8. Just my 2 cents.

[deadmaninc]

Ya you probably can get more money out of you car like Chill said. I say go for the Max if you really like it. I would also say get it with the nav since it is one of the best in the market. Good luck.

[WESTCOTT]

GO WITH THE '02 ITS BITCHIN.

[pruizgarcia]

I would keep the 99 GLE until it is paid off, unless you are putting out some serious money for repairs. The 02 will need an extended warranty to make up for the future repair costs. Check the 5th Gen forums at maxima.org for the particular issues on 02 Maximas.

Now, if money is not an object, go for it. In my case, money at the moment is well spent on something else. Especially long term money.
Just my two cents.

Pedro

[lordrashmi]

Well, the 02 I was looking at was already sold so atleast for now I am keeping the 99. However, I really do want an 02 so I will probably be keeping my eyes open for a good deal and if something nice comes along I will get it.

I took my max out of the city last night to some deserted highways and opened it up and remebered why I like it so much.

Thanks for all the feedback guys.

[Lordrandall]

Ugh, at least get the 6-speed SE.

[boingo82]

Originally posted by lordrashmi
[B.....
2. Black is a sweet color.......
2. I will be paying car off for 5 years instead of the 2.5 I have left now.
3. Insurance will go up.... [/b]

Black is beautiful when it's clean, but take it from someone who owned a black car for 2 years: it's NEVER clean. 5 minutes after you wash it'll be filthy again. Additionally, you live in Texas and black is a VERY VERY hot color.....hope you have covered parking.

Never underestimate the value of a car that's paid for. Living without fear of the repo man is one of car ownership's greatest luxuries.

Yes, your insurance will go up, not just because the car is newer and more expensive, but because the 99 is safer in the Insurance Institute's crash test.

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