When I got this car, it was already 5 years old with a lot of mileage, so I'm not too sure on the repairs needed earlier, but since I got it, it has been amazing. I have needed to replace the brake pads and rotors one time, and I got new tires as well. Pretty much basic stuff that all cars need. I have not had problems with anything else that would be unusual, except the condenser for my air conditioner doesn't work anymore. While this is pretty inconvenient in the summer, it does not take away from the general good condition of the car.
My first car was a Maxima and I loved it so much that after I got rid of it, I bought another one. The first one was a 94 and it was totaled in an accident, but I am willing to bet that if it had not been, I would still be driving it today. Maximas are amazing cars and I would not complain if I were to drive one for the rest of my life.
A 3.5L...They only came with 3.0L's.