1990 Nissan Maxima
The 1990 Nissan Maxima has a sharp and sensitive rack-and-pinion steering, power-assisted
four-wheel disc brakes, and firm, sports-tuned suspension The SE was the sportiest
of the third generation Maxima which ran from model year 1990-94. Three third-generation
versions of the Maxima were offered -- GXE, sporty SE and top-of-the-line Brougham.
All were powered by a single-overhead cam 3.0-litre V6 engine. Borrowed from
the then-300ZX sports car, but with just two valves per cylinder, this engine
initially churned up 160 hp at 5,200 rpm and 182 lbs-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm.
Even today, older Maximas should be able to reach 100 km/h from zero in less than
11 seconds.
The SE was the only Maxima offered with a five-speed; GXE and Brougham Maximas
came standard with a four-speed automatic, automatic was an option on the SE.
Automatics were designed to shifts in the right spots, although a bit abruptly
during hard acceleration. It is the car's chassis which really makes this car
a sports sedan even today.
Struts and coil springs on each corner and an anti-roll bar at each end combine
for a suspension which is poised and controlled during all but the harshest driving.
Steering is somewhat on the firm side. Unique to the Maxima SE were analog dash
gauges which automatically reverse at night from black-on-white to white-on-black
which enhances visibility.
Standard features on the '90 Maxima ran from power windows to central door locks,
power mirrors, cruise control, climate control and a power sliding glass sunroof.
The 1990 GE is a 4-door sedan with 3.0L V6 engine. A front-wheel drive, it has
either 4 speed automatic or 5 speed manual.
