I just put an order in for the new 2009 Nissan Maxima. I was wondering if any one else has the new model with the 290HP engine?

It's replacing my 2001 Acura CL S-type.

I choose it over the Saturn Redline Sky, 2009 Acura TL, 350Z and the 2010 Camaro.

I had my sites on a Sky but after driving it with a heavy winter coat, I found it to be too cramped inside, but it is a blast to drive. I'll regret not buying it when the summer comes, but it would have been my year round car and not exactly a great car for the Minnesota winters.

The new TL is ugly and the interior is too cramped and busy.

The new Maxima is built to compete with the BMW 3 and 5 series. It drives and handles like a dream. Handling is crisp and much better than my CL. It does 0-60 in 5.9 seconds.

Nissan is going to put a 300+ HP engine in it later this year or next.