rena

My 2004 GS430 rare black on black lexus was in an accident and there is about 8200 in damage. I talked to my ICBC adjustor and let her know im looking into getting it written off. Im hoping for at least 15000 because there is no other vehicle like it in canada.

Saying that Ive been looking at getting an is. Smaller is cheaper on gas and its more sportier. I dont know if there is much different between the 250 or the 350 other than engine size...so im looking at what people experiences are on the 06 07 and both engine sizes and also maybe the 2010. I hear the car is push start which is new to me and the gears can be changed on the steering wheel? Which i would not use...

Thanx.

shadowman

iTrader: (2)

You basically correct. The major difference between 250 and 350 is the engine.

IS250 uses direct injection (201 HP) and IS350 uses direct-port injection (303 HP).

Both has pedal shifters so you can "limit" the gears from the steering wheel. True gear shift can only be done on the IS-F.

Depending on which year you buy with the IS250, older version pre 2010 has carbon build-up issue. In fact, this issue is common on cars with direct injection such as Audi, etc... 2010 and up had revised pistons that supposedly resolves this issue.

IS350 does not have carbon-build up.

If you want more power, go with IS350. Otherwise, IS250 is fine when you're really under budget and don't need a fast car.

dong888

iTrader: (1)

Price difference between 250 and 350 is not much but drive feel is a big difference. Get 350.

I think there is nothing significantly different between 2006/7 and 2010 besides the bumper and tail looks. LED DRL (not on 2006/7 model) can be a big thing for some people.

mike33

iTrader: (1)

The is250 is underpowered @ only 204 hp. Go with the 350's 306hp, if you value performance. The extra 100hp will get you to 60mph in about 2.5-3 sec faster, big noticeable difference. The mpg is about the same 21/30 vs 19/28. The is350 also benefits from a larger front brake package with 13.2 in. rotors and dual piston calipers vs the 250's 11.65 in. rotors and single piston calipers.

edgeucated

iTrader: (4)

if you can afford the 350, its a no brainer. The 350 is more powerful and more reliable.

wilsonwho

iTrader: (1)

I test drove both a 250 and a 350, and I'd have to say going with a used one it's just better to get a 350. Pay the extra 1k (I'd say) to get the 350. Having the extra power is a huge plus. Went from an SC400 to a 350, didn't like the 250 for the lack of power. Seeing as you used to drive a GS 430, you're gonna want to be in the same power range I'd say. As for years, an older 350 model isn't too bad as long as they have good mileage. I have an 06 350, but I got it with 60k miles.

yowps3

The Lexus pre 2010 IS250 didn't suffer from a severe case of carbon build-up like what Audi and all the other brands experience.

Audi ;

4TehNguyen

iTrader: (1)

350 also has larger front rotors, 4 piston front calipers, and vented rear discs

dubUang

The 350 is reliable and fun to drive, go with it, you won't regret it.

rena

so far wanting to steer toward the 350. I do NOT like that carbon buildup. Im looking into shipping a vehicle from out of province. I can get a 2007 in Ontario for thousands less than here in b.c.
I dont understand the gears on the steering wheel> I want to change gears like normal or let the car do it on its own like um an automatic...

yowps3

LOL!

The car is automatic alright. If you want to manually change gears you could also do that..

ColtM4A3

Older 350's were RWD only. If you wanted AWD you'd have to look into 250's. I wasn't going to leave 100hp on the table so I went with the 350. Since I bought mine I've driven 250's as dealer loaner cars and they weren't dogs. Truthfully they were much better than I expected. Going to depend on your driving style so you really should try and drive both.