lexusdog

iTrader: (1)

Just had a quick question about the LS430 in that gold color. How is that color in person and does it look ok with tint? Would you spend less for a gold one that is well maintained or more for a regular color that is not maintained?

Be as honest as you would like. Thanks.

************Edit -

I ended up picking up an 01 in gold for $2500 with 135k. What do you guys think?

jayclapp

I think the gold color is fine. Just buy what you like. You have to live with the car, nobody else.

tallcaguy

Had a gold 01. Flawless paint, chrome wheels and tint is a nice mix. If you like a little flash, it's perfect. I really enjoyed owning it. Personally I wouldn't buy any LS (any color) that hasn't been well maintained unless you like DIY and have the skills.

Aron9000

Would not buy a gold one, period. Just do not like that color, it should've stayed back in the 1970's on Trans Ams and Monte Carlos.

lexusdog

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the input guys. And thanks for the picture, it looks good with tint and chrome wheels.

It seems as if they were offered with two different types of chrome wheels.

Bocatrip

Being on this forum for quite some time, I'd have to say that most members are quite forgiving. Yes, it is true that Gold is not the most popular color, especially for a luxury car, but truth has been said already that the overall condition is as important as you yourself liking the car. Forget what others think. It's harder and harder to find a well preserved LS430. Good luck with whatever decision you make. Whatever color you decide on be assured you are getting a great machine!!!!!

Johnhav430

I think it's fine, but I must say, I dislike gold badging, that's so 90's....I saw a blue LS430 with it recently....

tallcaguy

Agree on badging.

2KHarrier

Yeah, my 2005 is "Mystic Gold" and it's not bad. The paint is super clean and in great shape, which does look nice. It's not my favorite color, but it'll do...

Johnhav430

I actually think Mercury with ash? interior would be my next choice....I do like moonlight pearl but it's very common. However, it looks nice in the sunlight. Least favorite is the flat white and blacks....

tallcaguy

I sold a shiny gold 01 and bought a less flashy 04 Cypress Pearl. It took several months to adapt. Both LS's but they look like totally different cars. I parked my 04 CP next to an 05 Briarwood.Yeah yeah both are LS's but it's hard to tell!

If it's a well maintained LS, any color works. White, off white, black, silver all look great. Gold is impossible to miss. Briarwood looks like a custom car. Blue Onyx is elegant. Cypress Pearl is subtle. Etc etc. Whatever. Everyone has their own opinion. Bottom line in color choice? If you look back and smile when you walk away from the car, it's the right choice.

LS430FL

Honestly at this point the car is basically 16 years old. If it were brand new and we were worried about resale I would say avoid gold because it significantly reduces your prospective buyers. However, you want a good car you can enjoy. At this point I would be looking for the most well maintained car in your area. If that car is gold I say who cares go with it. Tint definitely helps the look on any car in my opinion, gold included.

Aron9000

Hate gold badges as well, my SC300 had them. You can get new chrome OEM Lexus ones on ebay or through your dealer, was less than $100 to swap them over on my car. Or if you want black badges(kind of a neat look with the right paint color and wheels), just take them off and rattle can them.

lexusdog

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for the input guys. I ended up picking up an 01 gold with 135k for $2500. What do you think guys?

This is a before tint picture.

2KHarrier

Wow, for 2500 bucks it could be a whole lot worse!

Nice find!