IS F (2008-2014) Discussion topics related to the IS F model

Is the IS-F for me?

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Old 08-15-12, 07:48 PM
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TitoCT200F
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Default Is the IS-F for me?

Hello, I recently purchased a CT200H-F and now I'm thinking to buy a IS-F 08-09, can someone educate me about those years? Pros or Cons? Any information that you guys will share with me will be great, I'm also looking at the M5. I'm all ears
Old 08-15-12, 08:35 PM
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Mrd916
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I drove many cars before I bought my 08 F. I spent several hours driving an 09 M5 with the 6 speed manual, thought it was going to be my dream car having a V10 with a manual trans. I was highly disappointed with the M5 from a performance aspect, I expected a rocket ship but it wasn't. U will love the F, only other car I drove that I liked was an 08 M3 coupe but it is very small inside and I could not find one with a warranty. My F is certified pre-owned and has 3 year warranty. My 08 had the slight pulling to right problem that can be common with that yr but Lexus fixed it at no cost
Old 08-15-12, 08:38 PM
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robertrios
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Wow that is a big difference from a Ct to an ISF. What kind of suspension do you like? If you want a softer more lexus like ride I think people were recommending the 2011. the 2010 had the upgraded LSD and 2011+ have the led head lights. HP and exterior to me look about the same for all years other than the above mentioned differences. 2010 added the factory ipod integration. So if you choice is between an 08 or 09 id get the 08 since youll find a better deal. If you have more money Id at least get the 2010 but ideally the 2011 I believe is the overall best of all worlds. I personally bought a very low milage 2008 and added a VAIS tech ipod adapter and 2012 headlights...not everyone wants to modify though.
Old 08-15-12, 09:11 PM
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TitoCT200F
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Thank you guys good stuff there! I think Lexus overhaul has a very nice suspension so I don't think that will be an issue.
Old 08-15-12, 09:18 PM
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bnizzle87
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Pros about an 08-09 IS F:
best stock wheel design IMO, although the 2012 gets one-half inch wider both front and rear
possibly could find one SGM, a discontinued color after 2010
could possibly find one with an extended warranty
lower insurance rates compared to a newer F

Cons about an 08-09 IS F:
some like the new LED headlights
doesn't have the LSD and updated suspension
better interior combos in the subsequent years (terra cotta, alcantara, etc.)
some have a slight pull to the right from the factory

You can't go wrong with any MY for the IS F. Some like the older headlights and others have switched out the suspension for coilovers, so there isn't a need for a newer F. Overall, I think it'll be a fun change of pace compared to the CT-F sport. My suggestion is to sift through the few listings of used IS Fs. You're bound to find one with the ideal color combo and mileage you're looking for.
Old 08-15-12, 09:20 PM
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robertrios
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^I agree but my 08 suspension is alot different than any of the other cars ive owned from lexus:

2002 RX300
1994 ES300
2011 IS350 FSPORT
2007 IS250
2004 SC430

From all of these the most similar would be when I had fsport springs/stock shocks and 19" wheels on my 2007 IS250. That being said I have no regrets!
Old 08-15-12, 09:22 PM
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exdakine
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I have a 2008 Is-F for sale =)
Old 08-16-12, 02:04 AM
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aWorkOfArt
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No need to hesitate. Just ask yourself these questions:

1. Do you wanna go fast?
2. Do you wanna go fast and need four doors to fit chicks in the back seat?
3. Do you wanna go fast, need four doors (for the chicks of course), and look good while your going fast so you can pick up more chicks?

If you answered YES to any of these then the ISF is for you Sir.

With all joking aside, this is one car you would get and not regret. Have a good one bro, and good luck with you decision bro!
Old 08-16-12, 05:21 AM
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vbb
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It may sound basic, but you really have to drive the car to figure out if it is for you or not. When I was shopping, it looked good on paper, but before I plunked that kind of money down on a car I needed to drive it to see. Luckily there was one at my local dealership and a cool salesman who tossed me the keys and said "don't break it." Although I didn't end up buying that one, it sealed the deal that the IS-F was the car I wanted, and after some searching around I found the exact car I was looking for.

You're going to get a bunch of people in here saying "yes, go for it!" but until you drive one yourself, you won't know for sure. If you're looking for a car with 4-doors, luxury, and power it definitely should be on your short list of cars to check out though.
Old 08-16-12, 06:16 AM
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TitoCT200F
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Thanks again! awesome information! Power wise I'm good I have a 911 with 720rwhp so I'm good on that dept, I'm looking for the following.

* Automatic!
* Sporty looking
* 4 Doors
* Warranty
* Reliable
* doesn't hurt to have a few ponies there LOL

My BIGGEST concern is the back seat space and that alacantra on the seats

Something that I can add wheels and lowered turn the a/c, listen to the music and enjoy the ride.
Old 08-16-12, 06:42 AM
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robertrios
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^you might want an IS350 then
Old 08-16-12, 07:27 AM
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DCoolBeans
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Originally Posted by 1SexyLexus

1. Do you wanna go fast?
2. Do you wanna go fast and need four doors to fit chicks in the back seat?
3. Do you wanna go fast, need four doors (for the chicks of course), and look good while your going fast so you can pick up more chicks?

If you answered YES to any of these then the ISF is for you Sir.


Test drive the car. You'll love it It sounds like this car is what you'd want. Just remember the rear seats do not fold down as you mentioned the back area. Small people and girls fit there great, not big adults
Old 08-16-12, 07:34 AM
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VtotheJ
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^The ISF is for you. It has reliability, handling, speed, looks good, is auto and also has manual mode, 4 doors... etc etc.

How is the Porsche (996 or 997?) from a reliability standpoint? Porsche has been in the top 3 for the reliability according to the reliability report from JD associates...
Old 08-16-12, 08:12 AM
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Just F Me
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Originally Posted by TitoCT200F
My BIGGEST concern is the back seat space and that alacantra on the seats
Alacantra is only on 2011s and 2012s I think...I have an 08...it does not have alacantra.

You're worried about back seat space? You have a 911....it only fits people that have no legs in the back.
Old 08-16-12, 09:09 AM
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TitoCT200F
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The 911 was built to simply race weather is 1/4 mile or one-mile runs, don't have a/c has a cage, and it happens to be street legal. I'm worry about the back seat because this will be our family car for 4 of us 2 adults and 2 teenagers, I'm coming out of an Excursion so you can imagine the size difference, but this rear seat's space looks very very limited.


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