You can do this yourself, you know? This new thing called the "Internet" is a pretty cool tool for this kind of thing!

 

Yea, I know, but I have to get back to the country first, so in June. I won't buy one without driving it so this would be an interesting way to buy, but I would like to find one with the options I deem important.

 

I like the ES better mainly because of the ride, secondarily because of the center console options, My wife likes the Avalon better because of the ride(!) and the seat comfort, as she has a bad back.

The Avalon LTD is Parisian Night Pearl/Gray and the MSRP was $39,980 and my cost was $41,529.
This includes the mats ($225) and remote start ($500), 18" alloy wheels. I won't quote all the "goodies" as they are readily available on the web.

The ES300H is Starfire Pearl/Tan and the MSRP was $40,430 and my cost was $47,234.
I will list my package:17" alloy split 5 spoke wheels, rear spoiler, VSC, TRAC, ABS, EBD, BA, Smart Stop, Auto collision notify, SOS enhanced roadside assist (1 year subscription), Premium audio system with ASL,BSM with rear cross traffic alert, HID, power sunroof, Luxury pkg, HD NAV system VGA 8" screen, Enform remote, Dest Assist, Intuitive Parking Assist, Rain Sense Wipers, Bamboo & Leather heated steering wheel, floor & trunk mats, wheel locks, rear bumper applique, power rear sunshade, rear window defogger w/timer, Remote start with long range fob (abt 1500')($500). Many more items, but the usual stuff.
I will be happy to answer specific questions.

Last two vehicles were:
2000 Lexus ES300 and a 2000 Honda Accord LX (we tend to take good care of our vehicles and keep them for a long time! (in the past! - We currently decided to lease both vehicles)

Prior to those, we had an Olds 88, Ford Mustang, MG Midget, Triumph GT6+, Mazda RX-7, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Avalon and a few others I no longer remember!


All vehicles were purchased new.

 

This confuses me a bit, I have a bad back as well, I have heard the Avalon seats were a bit hard and stiff and ES more comfortable. So your wife finds and Avalon more comfortable, how about you? I have also read that the ride of the Avalon is a too stiff compared to previous models, not sure of the ES, the stiffness that others report will probably not be noticeable to me as I am coming from a different type of a riding car. Thanks

 

The two statements quoted above have me confused.

 

In Consumer Reports Road Test they mention in the "Highs" recap, seat comfort on both the ES and Avalon. Seat comfort is so subjective, it really comes down to the individual and what feels best to them. What I think are great seats, the next guy may say they're terrible.

 

The first price of each is the MSRP (the sticker price) and the second figure is the actual cost, which includes the added options (which will be different for each buyer, depending upon which options are purchased).


As for the ride, I find the Avalon to be a bit harder than the EH. Hitting minor potholes seems to be felt more in the Avalon.