I’m planning on making a purchase this coming winter to highlight a point in my career, so it has a lot of personal significance for me, and I’d like to keep it for very long time. The LC500 ultimate edition (if that’s an option/or is available) is currently my default choice, but I just want to be sure I’ve explored all other competitors, and not have regrets.

My last car purchase history:
I last cross-shopped a 2015 bmw m550i and my current 2015 IS350, and went with the IS cause the bimmer’s steering input and seat of the pants feel was dead by comparison, even if the 550 was faster. That’s an apples to oranges comparisons I know, but I hope that gives some insight to what i prefer.

Where Im going with this is…. I’ve been cross-shopping the M8 competition, Porsche 911 variants, and the current Aston Martin Vantage. BMW’s looks are bland to me, but dealer access keeps it in the running. 911 is safe bet, but the ADM is something im not used to. Aston… thing looks incredible, and for something like that, I wouldn’t mind the commute to the dealership for service (but I don’t know how much their reliability has improved - would obviously buy an extended warranty/maintenance package - and really hoping someone here has had first hand experience that they wouldn’t mind sharing).

Overall, looks, exhaust/engine sound, driving experience, and performance are what I’m looking for. I do enjoy feeling the road. Im looking for something that is an event each time I get into the car. Something that will give me theater.

For all other driving duties, that can be delegated to my IS350. Thanks for taking the time to read this, and really appreciate the community’s input. Wasn’t really sure who or where else to ask, so hoping ClubLexus, the first community I got involved with cars with, can help me out.

 

Firstly, congratulations on celebrating your career.

Secondly, enjoy the car shopping journey.
I hope you’re able to test drive each of the vehicles on your short list.
My sense is that prices are starting to soften a bit for gently used vehicles, if a used vehicle is on your radar.

Thirdly, the cars…I bet the Aston Martin Vantage would be a beauty to drive.
In addition to the vehicles you’ve named…
How about the Corvette C8 Z06 or E-Ray?
Jaguar F-Type R?
Acura NSX (used)?
Mercedes AMG GT-C (used)? New Mercedes SL (expensive)?
Audi R8?
Porsche 718 Spyder?

Personally, I’ve owned beautifully restored 60’s cars, high horsepower sports cars, modern muscle cars, and recreationally raced motorcycles.
I’m not quite ready yet, but the quiet high powered performance of EV’s is starting to appeal to me.
Even the Ford F150 Platinum was surprisingly enjoyable - and quick! - to drive.

Would you like a high powered EV?

My decision: I no longer ride motorcycles so I wanted a sporty convertible for the open air experience.

I narrowed my search to either a new Porsche 718 Spyder or a new Lexus LC500 convertible.
I placed refundable deposits with respective Porsche and Lexus dealers.
The two vehicles provide different driving experiences - sports car versus GT car.
The deciding factor was my Porsche dealer informing me they could no longer get me a factory order 718 Spyder.
A month later, my Lexus dealer called to say my 2024 LC500 convertible was built and on route.
I’ve never driven a LC500, breaking my car buying requirements!
However, decision made.
I’m very excited to enjoy the luxury, GT driving dynamics, and reliability (better be reliable!!!) of the Lexus.
Many Youtube reviewers have described driving the LC500 as an “event” as you’ve mentioned above in your desirable vehicle qualities.
I hope (better be!) the ‘24 LC500 convertible will be the vehicle I’m looking for.

Enjoy the car shopping journey and congrats!

 

I LOVE my 23 LC 500 Dynamic Package. I have 6100 miles on it so far and every drive has been wonderful. To me it is the perfect combination of sports and luxury. She is smooth and easy when you drive her slow, but wakes up instantly when you let her know your ready.

Cannot say i looked at any of your other choices. Personally never like BMW. I owned a Mercedes AMG and it was okay at best.

 

you gotta test drive the LC. sure, a 911 has more *****, but who wants a car comfortable for maybe an hour or so, tops ?
for 150 K ? gimme a break. try drive an LC ; there is really nothing else like it. and the sound ....

 

As someone who has spent a lot of times in porsches, including the 911. You need to test drive one, along with an LC. If you prefer the 911, you will know right away, in which case you should, in fact, buy the 911. They are both very good cars, exceptional in fact, but quite different in their appeal. Only after spending some time in each would you know which you prefer

The LC and Aston are much closer and if you like one you will probably like the other. I love astons, but i would never dare own one for the potential reliability issues. Plus they cost a lot more. And if you are talking about any model other than the very brand new DB12 (which you probably can't even test drive yet), the interiors on them are very horribly dated, which dampens the appeal, considering that a pleasant interior is half the reason why you buy a GT car

Given your ownership history, I am pretty sure you will love the LC500, regardless how good the other options are. But i would say an extended test drive in a 911 is an absolute must so please do arrange one before making a decision

"Overall, looks, exhaust/engine sound, driving experience, and performance are what I’m looking for. I do enjoy feeling the road. Im looking for something that is an event each time I get into the car. Something that will give me theater."

Your above statement is pretty much what the LC500 was designed for. Having said that some elements you desire are possibly much better in the 911 as well. so to beat a dead horse, make sure you test drive both (testing the aston is optional)

Hope this helps

 

Totally agree with @breplica on this one. I did a review/comparo on both the LC500 and the 911. As he said, they are both great in their own ways. I'd say the LC is a better GT and the 911 is a better sports car. FOR ME though, I felt more special when I drove the LC on a back-to-back comparison review. Check it out here if you'd like:


I also test drove the AM Vantage. Quite impressive sports car, with a taste of class. I'd still say that the 911 is more dynamic and probably more reliable. The Vantage does have a better sound to it though, since it has the AMG V8 under the hood. Interior quality on the AM is very nice, but as previously mentioned, the tech is dated. The other thing is that it's not very convenient, as it lacks a glove box, and the middle compartment is very small. You can check out the review I did on it here:

The one thing I do have to admit that I tell either owners of cars I review or dealers, is that the more I drive and review other vehicles, the more it makes me appreciate and love the LC (still after 5 and a half years of ownership).

You MUST test drive any car you are SERIOUSLY considering. If the dealer doesn't allow you to test drive a 911 (or any other vehicle for that matter), then you can rent one on Turo. You'll pay $1,000 for a couple of days, but it's well worth it to spend the alone time you truly need.

 

I owned a 2008 V8 Vantage and absolutely loved it. It was like driving a piece of art...when I got back in the market for a GT sports car I cross shopped the Vantage vs the LC500. I went with the LC based on the price point, reliability and the fact that it was something new since I had already had an Aston. The prices are coming down but it is still quite a bit more for a Vantage. Also considered (briefly) the NSX and R8 but those are even more expensive. The sound of the LC reminds me a lot of the V8 Vantage actually which is a big plus. Very happy with the LC500 decision

 

To complicate the choice if you consider used LC/Aston - The depreciation on Astons is high because of fear of repair costs(?). Depreciation on the LC seems driven by lack of awareness and frustration with the track pad. Which means some 5 yr old Astons are very attractive if the potential mechanical issues don't worry you. The clincher in my case is that some Astons are available with a manual transmission.

 

I owned a 2022 base 911 for almost a year before selling it and purchasing an LC. If I would have spent more time driving a 911 before placing my order I would not have bought one. As everyone knows, 911's are great cars and serve as a status symbol, but they're not for everyone. Cabin noise, harsh ride, and not being able to stay comfortably seated for long made it a difficult daily driver. The LC solved those problems and the NA V8 sounds better than the 911 twin-turbo flat 6.

 

A few quick notes:

1. My advice would be to look at a bespoke LC500 rather than an inspiration edition. The IEs mainly vary on exterior / interior color by year (the interior on the 2020 is amaaaazing), and if a specific IE isn't what you want then customization is much more appealing as a long term car that is "yours". It can be challenging to find a Lexus dealer who has experience with the bespoke process, many don't and are confused by it.

2. On the "looking for something to be an event", consider the production count of the LC vs the rest of what you're considering. A C8 may be a better driving car for less, but they're downright common now and will be much more so going forward. 911's, less so but still out there. MB's are good looking cars but I've found their recent styling to be conservative. An Aston is a rare sight, the LC500 is often called the "Japanese Aston" so if you want the looks but less maintenance / reliability than the Aston then an LC500 is a logical choice. In 2 years of ownership I've seen just one other LC while driving my LC, and we waved at each other like we were seeing the Beatles.

3. When you're ready to upgrade to a better daily than the IS350, keep your eye out for a GS-F. The 2016-2017's are starting to get into the $50's and make for great dailies.

 

Too funny, I was watching your car reviews not even 2 days back. Really appreciate the time and effort you put into making the videos, and sharing your thoughts. Based on what everyone's said here, looks like I'll really have to spend some time with these cars. Also, the fact you still lean towards the LC after all those years of ownership says a lot.

One thing I keep trying to remind myself is that, numbers aren't everything. And if I really want an all out track monster, then that would be a dedicated track vehicle. I've been to the track several times now with friends, and it's really opened my eyes as to how much performance is useable on the street. Another thing I'm wrestling with is brand prestige. The crowd of people I work with values these prestige brands (they're not car people, just your average person), and I'm really trying not to let that sway my decision.

Really like your suggestion of using Turo for a long-term test, and I'm really considering doing that. Small price to pay.

And thank you everyone for all of your thoughts. It's really been a big help!

 

my experience exactly. pure performance but a tough ride; i never really even got comfortable; and since your supposed to be performing, and not comforting, mein heir,
so that is not altogether inappropriate. however ... at my age, gimme some elegant japanese aggression over that calf leather-wrapped teutonic fist - any day !
thanks.

 

^^^^ So well put I almost shed a tear.
🫡
Bruce in Fl

 

just a counterpoint, i never test drove any LC before getting my LC dynamic package. it exceeded my expectations.

the rest of the story... i'd watched so many youtube videos on the lc from reviewers i trust who raved about it, i knew i would not be disappointed.

 

the first time i sat in mine, at stevens creek in san jose, i was mesmerized, drawn in; it was white, with blue/white interior,
the inside was like a ferrari, hand made, leather lined like the inside of a woman's purse; the first time i test drove one,
before i signed the work order, the dealer rep said floor it, and we damn near blew the f*king doors off;
that was no ladies' purse, and i was sold.... a great ride. driving this car is better experienced than explained,
like finding a great mate.