BayToLA

I'm on the market for a GS. I've been having a heck of a time finding the right GS430 in the right condition for me to pick up. What I have found in my search is that I can find a TON of 06' GS300's for around the 20k range with factory warranty and in pretty much perfect condition. Now I'm debating between getting the 01-05 GS430 that I originally wanted or just getting an 06 GS300.

I'm trying to consider all factors here, including performance, driving feel, refinement, gas mileage, and resale value in 3-5 years. Like I said, I can find a GS300 in pretty much perfect condition without much of a search but a 2nd gen GS430 in great condition with low miles still eludes me.

PS... I know I'm posting this in the 2GS forum but I'm hoping I still get unbiased opinions.

dpgc562

My friend Bay! You already know how hard we've been searching for a 2nd gen GS430. My dad said the 06 GS300 gets the job done but doesn't have impressive passing power. So it's up to you whether you want the 2nd gen 430 or the 06 300. Put it this way, buy the one that suits you. I honestly want the 430 2nd gen....because in my opinion, I think it's more comfortable, obviously more powerful, and more of a soft ride as opposed to the new generation GS.

4ntvings

iTrader: (6)

gs350
gs430
gs400
gs300

(imho)

BayToLA

I know man. I've been car-less for a few weeks now but I've been driving my sister-in-law's MB GL450 for the past two weeks while they've been on vacation so it hasn't been that bad but they are coming back on new years so I'll be back to car-less.

A friend of mine has an 06 GS300 and the car isn't that slow. It's a 6 speed so the 1st gear is short and gets the car moving. It handles pretty good but I'm pretty sure the 430 has better suspension and handling than the 300 though.

It's really the fact that if I decided to go with the 06, I could go out and buy one TODAY with a warranty and low miles in excellent condition. Looking for a 2nd gen is impossible and I won't have a car in a few days and still haven't found anything.

BayToLA

Don't you think the different years matter? 2nd gen GS300 vs 3rd gen GS300 both at the bottom.

EyeKutr

iTrader: (5)

get an 06 gs430....should be around 25k

BayToLA

25k isn't an option for me right now. Entering my masters program soon and my original cap I set for myself was 15k. I'm stretching it just trying to get the 06 GS3.

BTW, I see you have an 06 GS300... Not happy with it?

gsCrazy

iTrader: (1)

i've put 70K miles on my 1999 gs300 and i strongly urge you to get a gs350 if you can.

dpgc562

Dude did you read what Bay posted? That is not in his price range...and the GS350 is expensive like the GS430 if not much more.

dpgc562

Dude I know what you mean. I've been car-less for a week ever since I sold my 1997 Honda Accord. It totally sucks because I always have to borrow my mom's minivan or some other car.

4ntvings

iTrader: (6)

the gs300 is at the bottom for a reason. iirc, the 2gs-300 and the 3gs-300 are comparable and the 2gs-430 is comparable to the 350. however, i dont think you can get a 350 for 15k (if i read correctly- is your budget).

again, imho, i'd get a 2gs-430 if on a budget. if you are able to collect some add'l funds, get the 350 (tad newer car, with some nice 'go' to it).

again, just my 2 cents

angus

iTrader: (4)

I say 2G 430 - but I'm biased - I like cars that actually look nice...

tmf2004

iTrader: (15)

Check out the classofieds here.. ChuckB is selling his 01 GS430 with 55k on the odo.. They can be found it just takes times.. Check ebay and your local autotrader.. With that budget you can get in to a 01-05 430..

ALeX300

iTrader: (3)

yup, ChuckB's GS is a rare find...i'd get that over 3rd gen GS anyday!


A coworker of mine is a Lexus fanatic and for my 9years working with him he had 98ls400, 2001LS430, 04GS300, 06gs300 and a 08gs350. He was dissatisfied with 06GS -underpowered. 08gs350 - he couldnt deal with all the rattles and sound problems(he's a cranker) ended up getting that lemon buy-back. So he drove my 01gs3 and been looking for a 04-05 gs430 for a past month. Not much luck....he regrets the day that his gf wrecked his 04gs back in 05...

BayToLA

Seems like the consensus is that the GS3 should be out no matter what gen so it's out. I'm losing patience but I will be that much more pleased once I finally find the right GS430