ALarsh

I am looking to purchase an ES300 now and I perfer the 2000 model year, but what are the exact differences between the 1997-1999's to a 2000-2001 model year ES300? Anything I should be aware of that is prone to go wrong with these (beside radio and gauges)?

Anybody know of any good 2000-2001 300's for sale?

Thanks

Choas

First off welcome to CL. Now second please try out that search tool it works wonders. Now I know i've seen this question here before but here is my "incomplete"(because I will forget something) list:

Taillights
More Wood Grain
Wood Grain Wheel
Bigger Nicer Rims
HID Option
VVTI
Updated Bumper
Updated Foglights
and more that I am forgetting

lexusk8

Agreed. Do a forum search for "es300 differences" and you will find many answers. This topic has been discussed ad infinitum.

Choas

^Yea I was gonna preach the tool some more but I got lazy and just answered.

TORTOISE

my 99 has VVTI...97s dont?

Choas

^Nope (10 char. min.)

PlatES300

iTrader: (1)

you also get autodimming rearview mirrors and homelink with the 2000 model. Wood grain steering wheel only comes on the 2001 model unless you have a platinum series 2000 model.

ES BL155

iTrader: (3)

vvti came on 99 and up

Kaydee

which headlight is brighter?(in terms of road illumination) the projector types or the reflector types?

ALarsh

Is the VVTI engine really worth getting a 1999-2001 model? I have found a 1997 that appears to be a great deal (excellent condition, 75K miles, $7500).

TORTOISE

Thats what i got my 99 with 62k on it for but still a good deal. Also the the vvti isnt that noticeable wen it kicks in. I think the 99 only has about 10-20 more hp than the 97-98 if that. But the 97-98 is also a non interference engine which is a plus. Either way u gotta great car.

TORTOISE

I wouldnt say the projector is much brighter but it has a better beam pattern.

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

find an 01 with more miles, youll definetly like it more then a 97

delta901

Register for this forum about 9 mo ago when I got my brother a 99 ES300 and need researching.

I just got myself a 01 ES300 2 days ago. Get a 01. Definately worth it!

Differences b/w 01 and 99:
-Softer leather (newer).
-Memory seat with memory mirror.
-Better, revised sound system.
-Auto dimming rear view& drv side mirror.
-Clear tail light (may be pro/con - personal taste)
-Nicer & useful fog lamp.
-Sportier front end.
-Bigger rim (R16 vs R15).
-More wood.
-Optional HID with auto leveling (I got this )
-All previous bugs was FIXED (since this is the last year model)
-Revised back seat head rest.

97, NO - get at least a 99.