Looking at a 98 LS400
11-16-10, 10:43 AM
#16
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I have a similar situation to the main OP. I am trying to choose between a 1 owner 1996 Lexus LS400 with 116k for $5400, and a 1998 Lexus LS400 with 117k (4 previous owners!) for $6900. Right now, I am leaning heavily towards the 1996 model. Neither of them have the Nav system on them, or the upgraded stereo. Both cars are on a dealer lot.
A few questions... if I decide to make the deal on either or (which I would like to hear some feedback from you all on), is there anything I should specify from the dealer on, or have done to the car? Both cars are on an actual Toyota dealership lot. Is there anything in particular with either year model I should be looking for? I have also heard about engine sludge in some of the late 90s model Toyotas; does this problem afflict the Lexus as well, and what year models would be the ones to watch for on that issue? Would you recommend I buy an extended warranty (I am leaning towards yes, as I have no doubt that parts for Lexus vehicles are pricey, and this will be my first Lexus)?
Anyhow, I appreciate all comments. Thanks!
Ian
A few questions... if I decide to make the deal on either or (which I would like to hear some feedback from you all on), is there anything I should specify from the dealer on, or have done to the car? Both cars are on an actual Toyota dealership lot. Is there anything in particular with either year model I should be looking for? I have also heard about engine sludge in some of the late 90s model Toyotas; does this problem afflict the Lexus as well, and what year models would be the ones to watch for on that issue? Would you recommend I buy an extended warranty (I am leaning towards yes, as I have no doubt that parts for Lexus vehicles are pricey, and this will be my first Lexus)?
Anyhow, I appreciate all comments. Thanks!
Ian
Again, thanks for any info you all have! Keep it coming!
Ian
11-16-10, 07:50 PM
#19
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Thanks to all for your imput it has been extreemly helpful, I am buying the car, after all the reseach I have done and the way the drives I am converted, this will be my dialy driver. It will have a home sitting next to my 08 Big Dog K9 chopper in the garage. Thank again to all I will post pics as soon I get it home!!!
11-17-10, 10:25 AM
#20
Congrats! I think you made the right decision...and itz a good buy. You will enjoy this car for years. Great quality for the money. I think itz good that it doesn't have the air ride or Nak stereo.
Enjoy!
I am looking also...and cars w under 100k miles that are clean are demanding a premium...I see alot of dealers w 99 and 00 asking 13 and 14k. Just trying to be patient and find the right car that super clean w a good service history.
Enjoy!
I am looking also...and cars w under 100k miles that are clean are demanding a premium...I see alot of dealers w 99 and 00 asking 13 and 14k. Just trying to be patient and find the right car that super clean w a good service history.
11-20-10, 10:56 PM
#22
I have a similar situation to the main OP. I am trying to choose between a 1 owner 1996 Lexus LS400 with 116k for $5400, and a 1998 Lexus LS400 with 117k (4 previous owners!) for $6900. Right now, I am leaning heavily towards the 1996 model. Neither of them have the Nav system on them, or the upgraded stereo. Both cars are on a dealer lot.
A few questions... if I decide to make the deal on either or (which I would like to hear some feedback from you all on), is there anything I should specify from the dealer on, or have done to the car? Both cars are on an actual Toyota dealership lot. Is there anything in particular with either year model I should be looking for? I have also heard about engine sludge in some of the late 90s model Toyotas; does this problem afflict the Lexus as well, and what year models would be the ones to watch for on that issue? Would you recommend I buy an extended warranty (I am leaning towards yes, as I have no doubt that parts for Lexus vehicles are pricey, and this will be my first Lexus)?
Anyhow, I appreciate all comments. Thanks!
Ian
A few questions... if I decide to make the deal on either or (which I would like to hear some feedback from you all on), is there anything I should specify from the dealer on, or have done to the car? Both cars are on an actual Toyota dealership lot. Is there anything in particular with either year model I should be looking for? I have also heard about engine sludge in some of the late 90s model Toyotas; does this problem afflict the Lexus as well, and what year models would be the ones to watch for on that issue? Would you recommend I buy an extended warranty (I am leaning towards yes, as I have no doubt that parts for Lexus vehicles are pricey, and this will be my first Lexus)?
Anyhow, I appreciate all comments. Thanks!
Ian
11-23-10, 03:56 PM
#23
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I test drove a 98 3yrs ago in denver when i was looking for an LS. I didnt get it back then because they were asking $11,500, so i settled for my 95 for $8995 in 2007. Believe me guy, if u want a faster car, go for the 98, it was soo much faster than the 95 i have right now.
11-23-10, 09:38 PM
#24
if you really want an LS that is a good deal. if just want a Lexus, go find an ES. Both deals sound good, if you want an LS jump on it. i had to fly out to Idaho and drive mine back. Price, availability, options... well worth time/money flying out and driving back(thanks ZERO_ONE). Why cause i knew I wanted an LS. If i wanted a Lexus i could have just gone on Craigslist here in Portland.
11-23-10, 10:55 PM
#25
I test drove a 98 3yrs ago in denver when i was looking for an LS. I didnt get it back then because they were asking $11,500, so i settled for my 95 for $8995 in 2007. Believe me guy, if u want a faster car, go for the 98, it was soo much faster than the 95 i have right now.
12-02-10, 06:19 AM
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I guess I should do an intro first, My name is Mike and live in Omaha, NE. I am looking at a 98 LS400 from a friend at work who is selling it. Her spouse passed away recently leaving her the 98 and an 09, she of couse is now driving the 09 and is selling the 98 which has 101000 mikes on it, he was the only owner and it is emaculate, has all service records performed by the local Lexus dealer and recently had the timing belt changed and serviced. Has brand new tires and has always been garaged. When I test drove it I could not believe the ride and was in total awe! She is asking $8500, suggested retail I believe is around $11000, Please some one chime in and let me know if this is a good deal or not. Thank you in advance.
Mike
Mike
12-02-10, 06:53 AM
#27
Pole Position
How much did you end up spending?
12-02-10, 06:45 PM
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12-02-10, 08:22 PM
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Good luck. Never worry about mileage worry about pedagree.
My 90 has 214k Miles on it. However, I have over 30K in reciepts from original owner. He had everything done to it over the years. I would be more worried about a car that sat around than one that was driven and maintained well.
Enjoy your new car!
My 90 has 214k Miles on it. However, I have over 30K in reciepts from original owner. He had everything done to it over the years. I would be more worried about a car that sat around than one that was driven and maintained well.
Enjoy your new car!
12-03-10, 05:45 PM
#30
Tatt22er,
Congratulations! You'll love it. My '98 has 181,000 miles on it. I bought a LS 460 thinking I'd sell the '98. That was almost 3 years ago. I've had it since 2001 and still love it.
Greg
Congratulations! You'll love it. My '98 has 181,000 miles on it. I bought a LS 460 thinking I'd sell the '98. That was almost 3 years ago. I've had it since 2001 and still love it.
Greg