I am looking to purchase an ES300 now and I perfer the 2000 model year, but what are the exact differences between the 1997-1999's to a 2000-2001 model year ES300? Anything I should be aware of that is prone to go wrong with these (beside radio and gauges)?

Anybody know of any good 2000-2001 300's for sale?

Thanks

 

First off welcome to CL. Now second please try out that search tool it works wonders. Now I know i've seen this question here before but here is my "incomplete"(because I will forget something) list:

Taillights
More Wood Grain
Wood Grain Wheel
Bigger Nicer Rims
HID Option
VVTI
Updated Bumper
Updated Foglights
and more that I am forgetting

 

Agreed. Do a forum search for "es300 differences" and you will find many answers. This topic has been discussed ad infinitum.

 

^Yea I was gonna preach the tool some more but I got lazy and just answered.

 

my 99 has VVTI...97s dont?

 

^Nope (10 char. min.)

 

you also get autodimming rearview mirrors and homelink with the 2000 model. Wood grain steering wheel only comes on the 2001 model unless you have a platinum series 2000 model.

 

vvti came on 99 and up

 

which headlight is brighter?(in terms of road illumination) the projector types or the reflector types?

 

Is the VVTI engine really worth getting a 1999-2001 model? I have found a 1997 that appears to be a great deal (excellent condition, 75K miles, $7500).

 

Thats what i got my 99 with 62k on it for but still a good deal. Also the the vvti isnt that noticeable wen it kicks in. I think the 99 only has about 10-20 more hp than the 97-98 if that. But the 97-98 is also a non interference engine which is a plus. Either way u gotta great car.

 

I wouldnt say the projector is much brighter but it has a better beam pattern.

 

find an 01 with more miles, youll definetly like it more then a 97

 

Register for this forum about 9 mo ago when I got my brother a 99 ES300 and need researching.

I just got myself a 01 ES300 2 days ago. Get a 01. Definately worth it!

Differences b/w 01 and 99:
-Softer leather (newer).
-Memory seat with memory mirror.
-Better, revised sound system.
-Auto dimming rear view& drv side mirror.
-Clear tail light (may be pro/con - personal taste)
-Nicer & useful fog lamp.
-Sportier front end.
-Bigger rim (R16 vs R15).
-More wood.
-Optional HID with auto leveling (I got this )
-All previous bugs was FIXED (since this is the last year model)
-Revised back seat head rest.

97, NO - get at least a 99.