5 Star Reviews for 1998 Nissan Altima

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.57/5 Average
70 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Altima is totally, and unnecessarily, redesigned for 1998. The Altima's new look is more wedge-shaped, with a trunk that looks like it has met the business end of a band saw. Standard equipment is up, including a CD player on every model except the XE.

Pros:
  • Big car in a small package. Lots of standard equipment.
Cons:
  • Dumpy hindquarters and lower build quality than we have come to expect from Nissan.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 70.00
  • Great, dependable Car - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    This 1998 Altima GXE was my first brand new car and, after owning a series of VWs, I enjoyed the reliability and sporty looks of this car. I now have 176,000 miles on it, only ever needed tires, brakes, tune ups until two months ago, when the engine finally went out, ONLY because I got very lazy on the oil changes, mind you! I put in a used Japanese engine and it runs like a charm again but it now has a steering fluid leak that has to be fixed. I think its to be expected at 176000 miles. Its been a fantastic car and I would highly recommend it.

  • Great Car - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    This is the best car I have ever owned. I have had it 10 years and other than gas, wiper blades, tires etc. I have only replaced the front brake pads once. So non routine maintenance for this car in 10 years has been under $200. I have other vehicles now and dont drive it as much as before but it is just too good of a vehicle to get rid of. I will definitely buy another Altima when I am in the market for a car.

  • Bullet Proof! - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    When I bought this car it had about 59,000 miles on it. It is a five speed. The only modifications I have made is opened up the exhaust and installed a "Tornado fuel saver". I do use Mobile One full synthetic motor oil changed every 8,000 miles, and synthetic gear lube as well. I have owned a lot of Japanese cars in my past, and I have to say this one is one of the very best! I consistently get 32 to 34 mpg on the highway which is most all that I drive. It corners very well, and if you redline 3rd gear you are doing exactly 103 mph! Whenever I give a friend a ride or let them drive it they cannot believe the power and torque that it has. As as far as repairs there have not been any yet!

  • Runs awesome - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    I have 83,000 miles on this car and it has served me well through college. Many people said I had the nicest car theyve seen on campus although mine wasnt the newest or best by any means. The interior of the car is unlike what you see in cars of this price range nowadays. The drive is ok, its enough to get you by. The wind/road noise is not what I would expect in a near luxury car - you can solve this by simple soundproofing. The Clarion sound system - standard on the GLE, is extremely clear and balanced - although the front is tuned a little shrill [might be the Boston Acoustics that I have there now] once you get some decent speakers on it. Better car than the competition by far.

  • Long-life reliable car - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    My Altima SE is a 5 spd manual which makes a 4 cyl a little more fun! Bought the car at 124k in fall 04 and will be retiring it soon with 190k. No real problems until last few months - engine is still great. Still using original clutch (needs replacement). Odometer broke a few months ago, and windshield wiper motor just died. Those are the only mechanical things to go wrong in the 4 years Ive owned it... not bad! I am now looking to buy an 05 Altima because they are very reliable.

  • I Love It! - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Oh my gosh, this is the best car in the world, we also have a 2000 Chevy Impala, and I love this 98 Altima so much more.

  • the best japanese car! - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    hi, i just bought my car 2 weeks ago, and i love it! it has all the options like sun roof, bose sound system, leather interior, and spoiler, and alarm. This is the best japanese car you can buy out there without having to spend thousands on toyota or honda.

  • 4 Dr. GXE Sedan - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Great car for the money, must be one of the best buys out there. When shopping, I compared it with similar priced competitors Ford Contour/Mercury Mistique. No comparison!!! That convinced me. Why pay so much for a Honda or Toyota. Ive had no trouble in two years. Its peppy and economical to drive. Friends who ride in it often comment on what a nice car it is.

  • ALTIMA NISSAN: excellent car - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Found a little skid in the front tires on wet uphill surfaces. Otherwise, a perfect car; never ever a mechanical problem. Not once. A fantastic machine.

  • Good Car - 1998 Nissan Altima
    By -

    Good Car With a very good price tag and body style, would buy another one if given the chance

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