I'm thinking about getting a used but newer LS. Mine is a 95'. I'm thinking either a 98-99' LS or a 2001 LS430. I have a budget of around $13,000 for LS400. However I saw a 01' LS430 for sale for $21,000. Is this a good price? It has 87K miles on it. The car comes in basic package (only heated seats and moonroof). I have been looking at price on LS400, it does not seem to depreciate much over the last year or so. Do you think LS430 is going to be the same? What should I expect for a $13,000 LS400, miles and condition. Please advice. I know I should not compare these 2 cars, I love them both. I guess my main concern is whether that LS430 I saw is a good buy. It is in very good condition btw. It is for sale at a Mercedes dealership in town. How much do you think this LS430 will worth by May of next year with about 115K miles?

 

Depends what you want in the car? is there anythign wrong with your '95?

While there are changes from the 95-97 compared to the 98-00, the main thing is the VVti motor, 5 spd tranny and typical facia changes like the HID lights, Nav (now a bit aged) and such. I personally wouldn't jump a couple years up just to get that. I liken it to using a Pentium III at say 2 Ghz then getting a who new system only to use a Pentium III 2.2 GHz.

If you make a change, I'd say go to a 430. Hard to say what to prices may be in May as it will run the range depending on condition. Of course, be aware, you know what ails your '95. A jump to an '01 with that many miles is an uncertainty and the lower the price, the more probable there are issues to deal with. Collision damage, high miles, salvage if real cheap....

With all the flood cars in Katrina...no doubt some unsavory types will put these back on the market to unsuspecting buyers.