RA40

iTrader: (6)

All are pretty good pick what characteristics you like. The 98+ are more likely to be found with a few less miles on them due simply to age. Still some lower miles samples to be found if you want the hunt.

VVTi in the 98+ is

The ease at doing a HID if not equipped. The later ones have HID so one less money draining aspect if the stock HID is to your liking.

Built in navigation on the 99+ right?

'97+ have the ignition immobilizer. More PITA for a thief who thinks he's going to simply walk up and drive off by popping the key cylinder.

So 97+

If you want a total project car, you'll be gutting it anyway so many choices.

selkirk

Actually, although the HID was pretty common on later models, it was technically an option all the way through 2000. Same for navigation.

Keep in mind that the VVTi does make the 1UZ-FE into an interference engine. That's the only downside IMHO to the newer models.

fatcat2

not just the vvti made it an interference, i believe it became interference in 94?? dont quote me on the year. just the first gens are non-interference.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

the 1UZ became interference with a change in the head design, '95 for the LS '96 for the SC.

amcdonal86

If I were you, I'd probably go for a '98-'00 if you can afford it. I had a '97 Coach Edition for a long time, and it just started to look kind of old, especially in the front. The '98+ looks much fresher in my opinion. Plus it's faster (not that the UCF20 is slow)!

Lexushead

Talking about waiting for one.
I sold my '92 for $200 to a guy I know 3 years ago due to several issues, heater core, brakes, & traction control not working. He's since fixed all of those and still driving it around once in awhile. He doesn't drive much any more because of >$4/gal gas.
Anyway, I've eyeing this '99 LS400 with 280,000 miles from a small dealer. The price has dropped to under $4,000.00. Still contemplating..........MN winter.......RWD......280K miles........premium gas and gas might hits $5/gal........

Rudee023

I've only had experience with UCF10 as I recently purchased a 91 with 215K mi, runs smooth as silk, even with a blown tranny mount and strut cushions. Much smoother than my 2003 Infiniti Q45 w/ 120k mi if that says anything.

CarCrazy24

I have a 1991, and it is just amazing. 195,000 miles and the transmission is still shifting smoothly, the engine is responsive, and the car rides beautifully. These 1 generation cars were built to last.

deanbrown

This:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Showr...item4aaaf7abd6

... would be a great car. Look at the mileage! 75K Would purr like a kitten.

Edit: Dammit it just sold! What a steal!

1UZAristo

I would probably buy a 1998+ VVTi, but I do still have a soft spot for the original UCF10/11, plus you can supercharge those.