The recent postings on the 2002 Maxima made me wonder about torque steer. Among other reasons*, I chose TLS over Maxima this spring because of the test drives.

I drove two "Anniversary Edition" (227HP) Maximas from different dealers. Both exhibited excessive torque steer (almost pulled the wheel from my hands) at relatively modest acceleration/low speeds. With the TLS I notice almost no torque steer (with or without VSA) even when attempting to emulate the 0-60 figures claimed in magazines.

Anyone else experienced this? Can any of you technical whizzes shed some light on this one?

Unless Nissan has done something new with the 2002 model, I fear the high torque ratings of thr 2002 Maxima could pose a serious health threat to all you racers???

* Other reasons
1) TLS has much more sporty "feel"
2) Maxima's 2001 long-throw gearbox left me searching more than once (and losing power on every change)
3) Owner satisfaction ratings - as expressed on this board and elsewhere

:p

 

The higher the torque output, the more boost to power steering.

 

Most cars address this with unequal length transaxle shafts - the TL has them, do not know about the Max.