There are a lot of great opinions on CL so I thought I'd ask about the first generation of 300's Vs the 98 and later 300's. I have a 98 and love it. I'm thinking of buying a second Lexus for commuting and until tonight, thought I wanted an SC for my daily ride. The thought occurred that since I enjoy my 300 so much, why not just try an earlier year. I travel 65 miles a day and want a nice ride. I don't race (much) and it's mostly interstate. Can you tell me about ride, handling, and a good year suggestion.

If it were up to you, what would you get.

Thanks for you help

 

A nice two-door would be a nice change from the sedan. Why did you rule out the SC?

 

There are not that many around and I'm just frustrated with the process of finding them. Decided against eBay since I could spend a fortune in independent inspections to check them out. No one tells you about the hidden damage. My favorite is hearing the strange "THUNK" and having the owner tell me, Oh, I never heard that before. Besides, I have two grandkids that ride with me from time to time. Also, getting a first Gen won't stop me from looking for the right SC, it would just take any urgency away.

I drive my 4Runner daily and I'd like to keep my miles down on it, and a Lexus is so much more comfortable to commute in.