haulin79

I just test drove a 99 LS400 and a 99 GS400. I'm looking to buy a 1998 or 1999 GS400, LS400 or SC400. (But I can't seem to find a SC400 in my price range)

Why did the GS 400 feel SO MUCH QUICKER (0 to 60mph) than the LS400?

The engines are the same but are the transmissions the same? Perhaps different ratios? Perhaps different rear end ratios?

The weight difference is only 200 pounds (according to wikipedia) but the 0 to 60 time felt way faster in the GS.

Maybe it was just that the LS was so quiet and ride so plush that I didn't realize it was going fast.

Your thoughts?

trukn1

The GS is quicker than the LS, but not by much. They are geared entirely different; so while the LS is no slouch, the GS is quicker.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

actually the GS and LS share the same gearing from trans to diff.

its the ~200lb weight difference and the ever so slightly freer flowing exhausts

trukn1

PD,, i will just defer all future tech questions to you. LOL!!!

Spacepig

The tradeoff is that the LS gets better gas mileage, despite the weight. When shopping, I was on the GS/LS fence, and when I realized that the smaller body actually got lower mileage (couple of mpg as I recall), I decided to go for the big boy.

skperformance

iTrader: (6)

I was really sure the rear diff on the GS 400 is lower creating better acceleration but poorer gas mileage .

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

nope 3.27 for both

usermel

There is a difference in the horsepower of both cars. The GS400 has 300 horsepower and the LS i think that year had 290 horsepower. Not a huge gap but, it is what it is. Also, the GS is a sports sedan as opposed to the LS being a Luxury sedan. They were designed to perform as they do, one fast and quick the other laid back and smooth with a good kick to it!!! The 200 pounds less has a slight effect as well!

tromly

+1 usermel, you're right on the money, the engineers designed the GS to be quicker, and they succeeded

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

the 10hp difference is due solely to the intake orientation and exhaust configuration. as i recall the fuel/timing curves in the ecu itself is identical between the GS and LS. service specs for the motors are identical as well.

its the weight that makes the difference.

bsjones35

I actually owned both vehicles....I sold the GS a few years back, it was a fun car to drive but I think I had a lemon. I currently have a 99 LS and it has been a great car and very reliable. If I had to do it all over again, I would buy another GS and find one that was in great shape. the GS is a blast to drive.