I'm looking to buy a GS300 as a more comfortable fuel efficient daily driver. From what I've read on here I need to look at a 2001 or newer cars for all the newer options. I'd prefer to actually find an 02' to 03' with 65k-75k miles so I don't have to do much to the car to have a reliable daily driver. Don't really need the Nav option, but I would like to get the heated seats. Any other options I need to look for?
My initial budget's in the $12k range, is that reasonable for what I'm looking for?

What else should I look out for or check on cars that I look at and drive?
I've read the ball joints are suspect, need to turn lock to lock and listen for noise right?

 

what's wrong with 01?

 

The GS is not a fuel efficient car, EPA rating is 19, and requires premium gas, if that affects your decision.

 

If you want something unique, get an 02-03 SportDesign model. You get a cool color scheme with aluminum accents and euro tuned suspension.

 

an ES would be a more efficient choice. Remember there is an expensive service at 90k so budget that in

 

01-05
SD has nice ext color
always check suspension and try to get service records indicating mileages and such.
also, might wanna check door actuators

btw, y not get the 430? mileage is practically the same if you've done your research
GL!

 

An ES would be a better pick for fuel efficiency, but I like the GS300 better. A Geo metro gets great gas mileage but it has no comfort, handling, or people hauling capacity like the GS300. The ES is an equally luxurious car, but it is a step below a GS300 in the Lexus car food chain.
I currently own an LS1 Firebird Formula with 356rwhp and 6-speed, a V-8 GS400-430 is a great car too, I just don't need the extra expense of the V-8.
I'm going to try not to mod this car much at all Maybe if I get the 6cyl I've have fewer reason's to mod.

 

I have an 04 gs' something why not also that year also?

 

04-05' would be nice, but I doubt I'll find one with less than 100k miles in the $12k range.

 

Sorry i think almost a big of a noob as you are. But what other options can you get for the GS besides the Navi and heated seats?


I wouldnt say that the ES was a step below, but more of a family/older person car. The GS is more of a sporty sedan but isnt that much/any bigger then the ES.

You say you dont wanna deal with the extra expense of the V8 when in theory it would be the car that has less mod's available. The 2J has way more options for mods then the 1UZ. And from my understanding the V8 only looses like 1-2mpg for having way more power (stock wise). So in theory you would want to make up for your lack in size (3.0L vs 4.0L or 4.3L) with more mods.

Dont get me wrong i got the 2j myself but i got it for the fact that its cheaper to go to Toyota and get the same parts as i would from Lexus. Since that motor came in the NA Supra, IS300, GS300 and SC300. I know what you mean by tring to keep the car stockish. But thats why you got your other toy right. hahaha. I'm gonna try to do the same with mines, keep her as stock as possible for as long as i can. But the mod bug is already nipping at me. Already got exterior stuff lined up, tring soooo hard to stay with stock wheels.


I found a 98' with 81K miles just last month. So the cars are out there, just gotta keep looking and have a little luck on your side. Hope you find what your looking for.