Phil676

Looking to become first-time Lexus owner in the next few days. I've been reading this and other Lexus boards for months. Found two that I like, but not sure which to choose. Both are in good (not excellent) condition and I'm assuming the timing belt hasn't been changed on either.

Which would you choose (both have navigation)?
-2004 w. 85k miles - $16.5k
-2006 w 127k miles - $16.5K (higher hp, but most board members aren't noticing a difference with normal driving, I won't be towing)..also 2006 rides a 'hair' quieter I believe despite higher mileage.

Are the final prices above good, fair, bad? I'm thinking they're average and there's room for another $1k off (?). It seems like dealerships are marking up these prices like 15 mpg is now back in style...both had asking prices of $18.9k.

Thanks!

suprawhite

iTrader: (5)

I would go for 2006 since it have the more powerful engine due to having the VTT-i technology which help. The navigation on the 2006 is Gen-4 which is also newer. There's couple more things that are new for 2005 model which is carry over for the 2006 model. As a loyal Toyota/Lexus owner, the higer mileage doesn't scare me at all. The most important is how it was taken care of by the previous owner. When I bought my wife 98 Landcruiser with 329,000 miles, everyone thought I was crazy. Well, that Landcruiser is still currently running perfectly with 380,000 miles with original engine and transmission.
P.S. by the way, the 98 Landcruiser have the same engine as the GX 470.

Phil676

Thanks SupraWhite, I didn't even consider VTT-i technology. I'll pick up the 06 and get the maintenance brought up to date, if necessary.

IanB2

I'm very happy with our '04, and picked it over an '07 that we also test drove due to condition/mileage/wear. The navi in the '06 is newer, and I beleive it would also have bluetooth that the '04 won't, so that's a big plus in my eyes. The vvt-i would be nice as well, I find with the bigger tires that ours is less snappy than before, and the extra power could be a plus in some situations.