Mattstermh

Looking to buy one for $5k or under. Not sure which to go with ... help me make a decision, because I like both.
Say both are equally maintained - what should I look out for? Timing belt on the RX has not been done but the dealer will do it for free. The ES300 has extensive service history, only one owner, will cost me $2k less than the RX but has 10k more miles on it. The interior also has a gross stain.

LeX2K

Entirely depends on if you want a sedan or SUV.

Aron9000

Same car, different body, buy whichever one you personally like better, they're almost the same mechanically and from a reliability standpoint.

Where do you live, how hilly is it, and how much snow do you get???? That might tip the iceberg in favor of the AWD RX300.

Personally out of those two, I'd buy the ES300 off the original owner. I hate dealerships, they'll lie through their teeth to sell you a giant pile of dog doo. Buying it from the original owner themselves, you have proof it was maintained. Sometimes buying private party the person will BS you as well, but generally people are more honest when they are selling you their old car in person. Or its easier to tell when they're lying to you.

tex2670

Your info says you are in the "North." RX it is then.

Fizzboy7

The ES will be much more efficient. If that is a factor, that is what I'd be going for.

Mattstermh

We get a good amount of snow about 3-4 months per year. Don't care for SUV/Sedan. I've wanted the ES for a while but I also enjoy the higher up ride. AWD is nice, I suppose, but not necessary. Is the ES really that much more efficient? How so? Both cars are 15+ years old.

davyjordi

I think the ES with its extensive service records may be the safer bet between the two.

RX469

iTrader: (1)

So this is what I'm reading, you get a "good amount" of snow about 3-4 months [where exactly "North" are you?]; Enjoy the higher up ride; AWD is nice in favor of the RX. Don't care for the SUV/Sedan; Wanting the ES for a while; concerned about the efficiency of the ES over the RX, in favor of the ES.

Sounds like the ES is your choice. What's resonating with me is the, "Don't care for the SUV/Sedan & Wanting the ES for a while." Those told me where your heart lies.

For me, the RX has become my Swiss-army tool for navigating all of the above.



Let us know what you finally decide on.

Mattstermh

I like both but the RX seems more feasible. I guess it's simply a matter of preference