Opinions on worth of trading for v8

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azaizai
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Joined: Wed Aug 13, 2014 7:28 pm

Opinions on worth of trading for v8

Postby azaizai » Thu Dec 10, 2015 12:43 pm

So, I try to keep an ear to the ground for a v8 pathfinder to come for sale in my area. I've currently got an 07 v6 SE with a little over 80k miles on it. Its got the timing tensioner whine but is otherwise in great shape. Its got leather seats with heated seats (that mostly work...mostly).

Anywho, was bored at work and scanning craiglist and found a v8 pathfinder. Its a 2008 v8 SE. No leather, no heated seats. It also has 110k miles.

http://springfield.craigslist.org/ctd/5351594370.html

Now, I dont think I'm goign to buy it but I did want to know your opinion on the idea of a trade of this nature. According to KBB.com the money is more or less even but I'd be giving up a little luxury. I love sound of that v8 with a semi-decent muffler and think it would be much more impressive than the tried and true 4.0. I also wouldnt have to do that stupid timing tension ordeal. I know there are some exhaust setups for the v6 (looking forward to SMJ's finished product) that are worth repeating..but I doubt it would touch the v8 note for note.


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NmexMAX
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Postby NmexMAX » Thu Dec 10, 2015 4:03 pm

Yeah, V6’s just cannot sound as good as a V8, unless it’s a VR38DETT, but that’s just a different ball game. I agree, you would be giving up some luxury. I would still keep your ears to the ground. I found my fully loaded V8 for about KBB from CarMax, though since it wasn’t it my immediate area I had to pay 799$ for shipping, but it was worth it. It has absolutely every option (4x4, heated leather, sunroof, NAV, DVD, Back-up, etc, list goes on). Obviously it’s an LE, but I almost did go for an SE with no heated leather and a lot less features, but I do not regret it. Especially if you already have those options in your current Pathy. They’re rare, but they’re out there. And surprisingly, hard to find w/ 4x4. I found a ton of 4x2’s. But yeah, I’d wait for a smidgen lower mileage one. Also, the VK56 is horridly die hard (seen a lot of Titans go to nearly 500k thus far), but the V8’s still have the infamous radiator issue.

Also, just a side note, the V8 had no actual “tow” package even though it actually can tow more than the V6 (a mere 1000 lbs more). Few things to keep in mind though, the VK is fairly thirsty, and if you use it as a DD, that may be an issue. And there’s everything that you already know about it (rad/rear suspension & and all the little quirks).

In short, look for one with comparable options as yours and ha lower mileage.

DanJetta
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Postby DanJetta » Thu Dec 10, 2015 6:25 pm

^ Exactly what he said.

I have a V8 LE and love it (got mine from Carmax, too). I drive a friend's V6 occasionally and, aside from the "stuff" (leather, features, etc.), the V8 is a completely different driving experience. It feels bigger, heavier, more refined, more powerful, and smoother than the V6. It's also much quieter (stock). When I let it warm up in the morning, I love listening to the perfectly-synchronized ticking of the lifters. Go drive one and you'll understand.

As far as gas mileage, it is a tad thirsty but it's not terrible. I have a 45 minute daily commute that includes highway, the DC Beltway, and downtown Baltimore--and it's not terrible. On average, I sit around 16.5 MPG; when I actively try to save fuel by watching the fuel economy chart on the center screen, I can average around 17.5 MPG; on a flat, empty highway, I can usually keep it above 18 MPG (without the roof rack and depending on the tires).

I have 150K miles now and the only V8-related problem I've had is the exhaust manifolds. I have to replace the belt tensioner about every two years but I don't think that's a V8 issue.

And in case it matters, the V8 will effortlessly smoke the V6 in a drag race (we've tested it a few times).

azaizai
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Joined: Wed Aug 13, 2014 7:28 pm

Postby azaizai » Thu Dec 10, 2015 9:03 pm

Ya, I think thats what I needed to hear. I sorta settled for the pathy I have now...but I'm going to keep my eye out for an LE loaded v8. I honestly dont think it gets much better than that (and I really dont want to spend money making the 4.0 sound like a v8...knowing full well it never will)

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NmexMAX
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Location: Northern New Mexico

Postby NmexMAX » Fri Dec 11, 2015 7:51 am

ohhh yeah ... the manifolds. But since they have the cat integrated into the manifold, you're covered under the 8yr/80k emissions warranty.

So look for one with less than 80k and 8 years old. That's where I lucked out.

Had the problem, fixed free of charge.


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