I think that the later front-wheel drive Maxima with the V6 was an all-around better vehicle. http://indianapolis.craigslist.org/cto/4666712211.html $800
We had an '86 Cressida sedan, growing up. It was a very reliable car, from what I can remember. I remember sitting in the dealership for A VERY LONG TIME, while my Dad haggled over the deal. Very extrutiating for a teen-age kid...