robbyboy32

I'll have to say my 1998 LS400 was a softer ride while being a faster car than our 2006 LS430. It was more fun to drive and got better gas mileage on trips. I remember I took off the traction control and literally did a no-brake burnout taking off from a light when I lived in Florida. However, our 2006 LS430 now has almost 190K miles and still looks brand new. The 1998 at 200K miles looked like it was time to sell (still running great, but just not as nice). We will keep the LS430 indefinitely until failure, which doesn't feel like it will be anytime soon. The leather, wood, paint, and even the wheels are still in great condition despite being a car from "up north". With lower mileage I would pick the LS400(98-00) over the LS430, as long as the pricing is commensurate with age, condition, and mileage. High mileage I would opt for the 430 all day long. 1998-2006 was the sweet spot for LS. I tend to think automakers finally get it right in the last few years of production of a particular design. Also, if you have hemmorhoids get the LS(soft), if you have a bad back get the 430(firm). The 98 LS400 felt like it had it's own seat suspension at times. The seats are much firmer and supportive in the 430. Maybe they did that to give the seats more life. Speaking of seats the LS430 won't give you swamp *** because it has perforated leather and cooling.

SW17LS

I disagree with all of this. The LS430 to me has better visibility because it has a taller greenhouse and more glass. The windows in the 430 are unusually huge. If you felt the 430 you drove had an issue with power steering, it likely had an issue with power steering. Both cars had very light steer with your finger steering.

Since you have a 2006 I'm going to bet you have the 18" wheels. Thats why your 430 rides harder than your 400.

The 04 LS430 with UL and 17s that my Dad replaced his 98 400 with new remains the best riding car I have ever driven, and that includes the 400....which was also a great riding car. If you want your 430 to ride better, go to the 17" wheels.

R Z

I had a 94 LS400. A favorite car. Loved the feel, the ride, pure enjoyment. Didn't have lots of bells and whistles, but I smiled every day I turned the key. A good friend told me to call him first when I sold. He got the car with 130,000 miles on it and still has it. I believe he is somewhere around 225,000.

I went to an 05 LS430. First let me say, I really enjoyed the 430. It was mainly because of the luxury features like the nav and comfortable interior, and that key that sat in my pocket while I turned the on switch. The body with those 5 star wheels was pretty slick. However, the ride in the 400 was better for me. Also, when I bought this 430 back in 08, my dream was for the 460, so the 430, while I really enjoyed my time with her, was a rebound car (if that makes sense). I had more basic issues with the 430 like the steering wheel motors went out, but for the most part it's a luxury car.

I've since jumped to an 08 LS460 (had it about a month). This is now my favorite car. Love the ride, the toys, the look, it just works for me.

Hope you find the perfect car for you as well! Good luck.

SW17LS

Like I said, the 5 spoke 18" wheels

BigBruiser

First LS was a 1997 400. I've owned two 2002 LS430's since. I prefer the 430 for the comfort. My first 430 was a 2002 CPO and was the best ride I've had in an LS. If you perform your required maintenance, replace your bushings, shocks, engine and transmission mounts and etsu your door seals these cars will be reward you with years and miles of smiles.

mappo

For taller people, this is a key difference. The 400 is a little short in the headroom and the seat back height. The 430 fixed this and is a much more comfortable car for tall people, especially for long-torso people.

SW17LS

Yep, this is a considerable difference.