jlin101

While test driving an IS350, my wife insisted that I also tried a 2006 GS430 (she thought it would be a worthwhile upgrade over the IS (in status, interior room, and luxury). She sat in the back seat during the test drives. Like me, she was not impressed by the GS at all (the rear room was only marginally larger, the handling felt portly, the interior layout was not as well thought-out, and the ride actually was poorer). It was an easy decision to go with IS350. It gives me that grin when I first tried the GS400 in 1999 (loved it but I couldn't afford it then). Maybe my perspective and expectation have changed in the last 6 years, but the GS430 no longer gives me that rush.

pita2go

if you are done tuning your old one.. it's good to change sometimes.. a little bit smaller though.. and more power

TAMR_GUS98

After driving my wifes IS350, everytime I get in my GS4 I feel like my car is obsolete because of all the technology thats in the IS. But, I still love my GS and would not trade it in. I just feel lucky that we have both cars.
Will

DallasLex

iTrader: (1)

As you mentioned in the original post, this is not going to be your "family" ride. Therefore, if low 40's is your limit, then IS340 is the clear choice.
The styling of the GS400 is outstanding, but by the same token it was introduced in 1997 which makes it very dated by today's standards.
Good luck and let us know of your final choice.