Joeland

I'm down to two 2003 ES 300's that I am considering buying. Both are at independent, reputable, used car dealers.

Car 1:
$9,999, perfect interior, right front fender dented likely by a door that hit it, driver's side mirror has a piece broken on the inside from likely hitting garage edge backing out, passenger mirror works fine but the mirror plate is clearly loose, car only has 56k miles on it. Probably owned by an old person that couldn't see well and hit mirrors a few times (only had one owner - dealer got it from a Benz dealer that let it go after it was traded in).

Car 2:
$11,799, perfect inside and out, with factory chromed wheels. Very reputable independent dealer; but I want the price to come down, obviously. 64k miles. A Lexus dealer about forty minutes from me has a similar car with less miles for just $10,000 - thought this might help with leverage on this particular car...or I could just go to the Lexus dealer and buy there; frankly I don't find Lexus dealers willing to discuss price, much on used cars.

Both drive beautifully and sound great, and both dealers will let me take the cars to a mechanic of my own for inspection.

I intend to pay cash after my trade but have not told them that yet. I am confident I can get at least $2000 for my trade, which is a 2003 Saturn Ion, loaded in very clean shape.

What I'm wondering is, do either of these cars scream "walk away" as compared to the other? Any other advice on prices, etc. anyone would offer? Input much appreciated as always. Getting close to finally joining the family of Lexus owners.

hypervish

I'd look at a newer ES, as much as I love these I wouldn't pay $10k for one.

I'd pay 8k for car 1, sight unseen.

joegreen

I don't know how keen you are on doing your own maintenance or if you want a warranty but you can search craigslist and find some great deals on newer cars.

speedkar9

I wouldn't pay more than $6000 for a 2003 ES, $7000 tops for one in outstanding condition and low mileage.

Keep looking. Any reason why you want a 2003? The 04-06 had the bigger 3.3L engine.

KLF

Whaaaat?? $11,800 for an '03 is insane! I wish I could get that for my 05!

Give them a realistic price. If they refuse, walk away, keep looking.

sh0rtie10

Keep Looking, both are very High for an 03'. Offer 1k over what they bought it for, plus any reconditioning cost that their service department did to them. It should still come out to 1000's less

mmatheny

This thread is 2 years old! Hope he kept looking!