Hi All,
I'm new to the forum and would like to seek for some advise before I decided to trade my current IS2001 for a bigger Lexus (GS or LS). I'm thinking of getting an either a used GS430 or a LS400. I have recently driven both from a dealer and found that they are comfortable, excellent qualities, and the thing is I like them both and really hard for me to decide right now...Can anyone here share with me about your opinion and advise to give me an idea about what the major concerns/differences among these 2 cars. For power and handling is GS430, for room and comfort should be LS400?? am I right?? Please advise. Thanks a lot!!!

 

I have a 94 LS400 and a 2001 GS430, and I like the LS much better. Much comfier, solid interior, soft ride. But its rather underpowered, while the GS is a freaking beast.

 

Thanks for your comment. I felt the same too and I'll probably will go for the 2000 LS400 due to its comfort and quality, also i can pay less compare to a 2003 GS430.

 

The '00 LS400 is in the $15K-20K range. The GS will be ~$26K-30K so a better comparison would be an '01-02 LS430. Given those two, I'd select the LS.

 

I think you a nailed it...although the GS430 is a luxury/sport model, the LS is pure luxury. You'll have more room with the LS and ride in comfort.

Not sure if it's important to you, but the GS430 would also have a nicer navigation system. It will be dvd based compared to the hard drive based system on the LS. The display will also be larger on the GS.

Styling wise, it's purely subjective. I prefer the styling of the GS, and the second gen GS has countless modding possibilities and lots of tasteful body kits to choose from.

 

Having owned a GS400 and LS400, as well as having a gs430 and ls 430 in the family, I'd say if you can get an 01 LS430, go for that. I realize the price is higher, so that might put it out of your range. But, I believe there is quite a big difference in ride quality and interior between the LS400 and LS430. Don't get me wrong, my LS was a GREAT car, with absolutely no major problems, etc. But, the LS430 just feels a cut above imo.

Regardless of which you choose, you'll be getting a great car. No duds between those options.

 

I thought about the 01 LS430 too, i tested one with 89K mileage at the dealer and I like it a lot, first time ever feel like driving a luxury sedan. Pretty high resale value so I would also consider looking from the private party as part of my option choosing bet LS400 and LS430...hmm...

 

keep in mind that the 98-00 LS has the same VVT-i 1uz as the 2GS, which gives it about 290hp and 300ish tq. a 98+ feels a LOT different from a 89-94 or even a 95-97

 

Normally I'd say always go for the newer car, but with Lexus' it's not a big deal because reliability is top notch.

Go for the LS, there's a reason why it's the flag ship sedan.