So, I'm waiting on Lexus Dealer to get my new car in... and the salesman informs me that they have their Demo Model, 500 miles, with the exact specifications I'm looking for. I'm torn between waiting (who knows how long) for the brand spanking new one, or taking the demo model.

Is there any truth to "breaking in" engines? Do they need to be babied for the first 1,000 miles...?

I mean, this is a test drive vehicle... people are obviously going to be pushing the limits somewhat (probably not to a HUGE extreme, given that there's a guy in the car with you... but still, probably above average accelerations/top speeds)

All thoughts, especially from those knowledgeable about engines etc, are appreciated. My CHIEF concern with taking the demo vehicle would be that the it's more susceptible to have issues (due to being treated harshly for its first 500 miles...)

 

depends..

how much will you save on this demo

 

imho if it's a car that you are going to keep, i won't get a demo

 

Fate has had its say....

I just called my salesman to see how much more $$$ he'd knock off for the demo....

and they sold it already. So... not an issue anymore, I guess! :-)

Back to praying for a speedy delivery on the brand spankin' new one...

 

i always say things happen for a reason. if it's not meant to be yours, tell yourself the better is on its way

 

My salesperson didn't come with every time. I was gonna say when I test drive cars, I don't floor the car from a light, but pretty darn close. And when I'm on the highway, I would floor it for passing simulation

 

My Lexus salesman always let me test drive alone.

 

the few times i test drove, a salesman came along. part of the routine was to go to a parking lot and accelerate quickly for about 40 to 50 yards and then brake, hard. I forget the patter that went along with it but i think it was some sort of safety demonstration re the brakes. anyway, my experience would support those that say stay away from the demo.

 

If you don't mind me asking, what was the msrp on that car and what
was your last offer before they let you walk out?

 

I don't know for the demo, Lenny. I was negotiating on a new GS350, and the MSRP was 52,4xx and the price we agreed on was $46,000 -- all fees included (doesn't include tax/title/registration).

My salesman said he would be willing to be "even more aggressive" on the demo model....

 

As a sidenote, I got a call from my dealer and my car is scheduled to arrive in port on May 12th... which means 10 days max after that it will be ready for me at my dealer....

sooo close.... :-)

 

Thanks for the info and good luck with the new GS.

 

Mcukier, just curious as to which dealer this is?

 

PASS ON DEMO... Usually people abused the shxt out of the demo, personally I would never purchase a demo...

 

Yup.. I abused the DEMO. =)