IS - 1st Gen (2001-2005) Discussion about the IS models up to the 2005 model

Best model year to get??

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Old 05-28-06, 10:26 PM
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flipside909
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For the 04-05 IS300, Lexus deleted the suede once known as "Ecsaine" for 01-03 and "Alcantara" 04-05 with Leather inserts for the doors.
Old 05-28-06, 10:27 PM
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flipside909
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Also forgot to mention, the 2001 models only sat about .25"-.5" lower than the 2002-2005 models with stock suspension. The reason why Lexus raised the height was due to owners complaning of low clearance for the front bumper and underpanels.
Old 05-30-06, 02:50 AM
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748special
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I didn't see anyone say this yet.....

In the '04-'05 cars they took the LSD away. I can only guess it was to save money. I have an '02 and was looking for an '02-'03 when shopping for my IS because I wanted the LSD. Depends on your driving style and what you want the car for though, but there is some more info for ya.

go search this site too for more IS info....It's a good site and a good group.

http://my.is/
Old 06-19-06, 11:25 PM
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fatddyslam
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U wanna know something else thats different between the 01 IS300 and the rest? The side molding. compare cars and you'll see, there is real no way i can describe it, nor do i know how to post pics so youll just have to notice it on your own.

btw: i have an 01
i changed out the grill and bought an armrest. $70shipped for grill and $125 shipped for armrest and its basically an (although i like the piping in the 02, i dont think it'd be a deal breaker for ANYONE).
Old 06-23-06, 12:26 AM
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mikevanle
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Was LSD standard in all the IS's or was it optional? And how can you tell if it came with it?
Old 06-23-06, 01:00 PM
  #21  
LexT
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The spring rate in the 5spd is higher, it handles a bit better than the autos I testdrove.
I think the LSD is optional - not all 5spd's I testdrove had em.
Old 06-23-06, 04:26 PM
  #22  
flipside909
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Originally Posted by 748special
I didn't see anyone say this yet.....

In the '04-'05 cars they took the LSD away. I can only guess it was to save money. I have an '02 and was looking for an '02-'03 when shopping for my IS because I wanted the LSD. Depends on your driving style and what you want the car for though, but there is some more info for ya.
LSD was taken away from the 5spd Manual version after the 2nd half of 2004. LSD was still an available option on the E-Shift version.
Old 06-23-06, 04:27 PM
  #23  
flipside909
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Originally Posted by fatddyslam
U wanna know something else thats different between the 01 IS300 and the rest? The side molding. compare cars and you'll see, there is real no way i can describe it, nor do i know how to post pics so youll just have to notice it on your own.
This is true. The side door mouldings are a bit thicker on the 2002 and newer. You can really tell a 2001 from a 2002 from the side by looking at the indentation of the door moulding on the rear doors of a 2002+ model.
Old 06-23-06, 05:42 PM
  #24  
mikevanle
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Originally Posted by flipside909
LSD was taken away from the 5spd Manual version after the 2nd half of 2004. LSD was still an available option on the E-Shift version.
What about the 2002-early 2004 5-speeds? Was it standard, an option, if option how can you tell if it has it?
Old 06-25-06, 10:40 PM
  #25  
A.Tech
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Which ones have the best Suede leather? Or are there some with just cloth and leather?
Old 06-06-09, 10:35 AM
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"Lexappeal
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Great info. thanks for the heads up...Im actually lookin to buy either an 01 or an 02 right now.
Old 06-07-09, 09:39 AM
  #27  
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Originally Posted by rimshaker
Thinking about getting a nice used IS300 sometime this year. I figure with the new IS350 out now, maybe used prices would drop a little more.

I'm from a Honda family, so I'll be the first to break the norm and go Lexus. Problem is, don't know that much about the IS models in detail. I know they range from 2001-2005, but what are the major differences/upgrades between them all?

My goal is to get the oldest year I can without sacrificing any major improvements. I'm talking about performance changes, not little aesthetic changes. Engine, suspension, transmission, exhaust, lighting, etc. So which is the best year to get?

same here i'am was in the honda game and sold it and bought me a 02 lexus is300 don't know nothin about them either so welcome to the club but nice come-up

Last edited by 2jlex; 06-07-09 at 09:44 AM.
Old 06-07-09, 09:43 AM
  #28  
2jlex
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listen toyotas never fail thats my saying and i garannteee you that whatever lexus you buy you won't be dissapointed the first reason you wont have to worry about people splakin your stuff and second of all you will never have mechanical problems
Old 07-05-09, 02:30 PM
  #29  
818sc400
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what kind of wing is dat on your friends car olt?
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