Looking at getting a ISF
Yes, there are improvements throughout the years, but unless you are a competitive tracker, you probably won't be testing the limits of the eLSD and suspension on the 08-09 vs. a 2010+. As an owner of a 2009, I've never been held back my the suspension or LSD on my car. The most annoying thing is the lack of a USB port that became standard in 2010, seriously. that's something I miss every time I drive the car... not the LSD.
I say get the 100 point inspection (if they're still available, Lexus refuses to do them by me) and offer 20 on the car. I set out for an 11 or greater, but couldn't find one locally. My 08 popped up in the 11th hour and I'll never look back. I went 13k under my budgeted value and the car feels faster on the street over any of the newer ones I drove. Call it "stiff suspension placebo" or whatever you want, it feels faster on the street.
I now enjoy reading people ragging on the 08-09. I've never been held back by the suspension or eLSD either. When it comes time to do suspension, I may upgrade. If an LSD pops up at an insanely low price (I'm a lucky guy, it may happen), I'll upgrade. I like the LED headlights but do I want to lose adaptive...? Don't let the internet forums convince you these changes are "next gen." Enthusiasts congregate and knowledge spreads - sometimes a bit much in some cases. 2015 is the new "next gen" for enthusiast automobiles. 07-14 are all brethren.
I am not in your same position. I'm 35, unmarried by choice, never having kids, and never buying a home ever again. I'm stuck with a beautiful home. I don't believe the home values are really coming back - I believe they're redefining in what I call a "new economy." I have issues with anchors and commitment. =)
Good luck and go get the car if you can obtain some evidence that it's clean.










