Definitely go test drive!
My story:
2 months ago, I was in the market for a new car. I'd pretty much decided I wanted the '03 Maxima, so I drove one. They had a 3.5 '03 Altima there too, so just for kicks and to compare, I drove that one, too. OH MY LORD! Before I was even back to the lot, I knew I wanted that car, even though I could afford the Maxima. Depends what you're looking for - the Maximas are "luxury" and handle loosely and very smooth. But the 3.5 Altimas handle and respond like a sports car - tight suspension and AWESOME handling, while still with the room and class of a sedan (which I need b/c I have a child). I got the Altima 6 weeks ago and I LOVE it! 🙂
Hope that helps...
-TekChik