Originally Posted by YoshiMan

Transverse mounted V6s, especially the 1MZ-FE, are horrendously difficult to work on, and have very high labor costs because of this as well.

I know numerous people who own cars with that horrid engine, and they end up shelling out a small fortune for things as small as a bad ignition coil, because it requires you to dismantle half the intake manifold just to get the stupid things out. There has been numerous cases where they come to me asking if i can fix some small problem, which ends up being a significant tear down issue that i am not willing to do on someone's car i barely know.

Just did the belts on a friends wifes RX300, and it was rather unpleasant. Most of the tools couldn't fit between the front of the engine and the frame of the car.

Originally Posted by Legender

I've owned a 95 Avalon with over 200k on it and a 2003 with 130k
and a 93 and a 95 LS 400... so I think I can compare....

The Avalon will be reliable but won't ride/drive like the Lexus... and the parts are not made as well ... it's not engineered to the same level as the Lexus...it's good but not as good.

The Avalon has more interior room (rear seat room) than the Lexus so if that's important and you want regular gas and a bit higher average mileage then go for it...
For my money.. I want the ride and power and comfort of the Lexus... I've driven both...and not longer own the Avalon... fit my needs at the time with kids in the back seat, but don't need that anymore.

Originally Posted by peterls

In addition to everything that was said already, Avalon at 200k miles is on its last legs, while an LS is just broken in.

Originally Posted by Legender

Ok...
So you summed up my entire post with one sentence...
"great point! i just cant see myself downgrading to a Avalon"

I'll try to be briefer

Originally Posted by Stereorob

if you would like a car that isnt fast, not fun to drive, and already looks dated and stupid then yes! by all means trade for the avalon! oh did i mention the avalon is made in alabama?