Date Quartz

What does it mean on the minoltas when they say maxxum 5 date. whats the difference between the date and the nondate?

With a quartz date model camera you can print the date and time on a picture and im pretty sure that if you want to you can turn it off if you dont want the date on your pictures.

Indeed. You can turn it off. Also, on some models, the Date Back version is necessary for connecting certain optional accessories - such as remote control cords or data gathering units. Check the manual for specifics.