wmphipps

I am considering trading my 1990 Nissan 300zx 5spd manual NA 63K miles for a 93 LS400 with 77K miles, private owner even swap. I have two sports cars (also a new Crossfire coupe) and would like to try another interesting car. Any comments from you LS 400 owners to help me decide would be appreciated. I have never owned a Lexus and have done some limited lurking on this great forum to get acquainted with these fine cars. I am also interersted in the SC400 but I have an offer in hand locally for the LS. Any pointers on what to look for or thoughts on this trade will be very helpful. Many thanks.

Mike in Toledo, OH

python

iTrader: (4)

i would, although the timing belt is about due on the Ls...check for the ac working, power steering leaks and how good the interior is

wmphipps

Thanks Python.I went thru the timing belt stuff when I bought the Z I am trading and my wallet was $1200 lighter when done. Any idea what a dealer cost might be for this maint.?

MEANDAFAKA

i just traded my Z for a LS. same situation here with you, even trade. i had my Z for about three years and three months, and i'm just sick and tired of the Z forums, how closed mind those peoples are. oh, and in hawaii, there are bunch of Z haters over here so yeah. but the LS is pretty fun to drive if its something that you know what you get yourself into

trukn1

Def check the LS for leaks (power steering is common at the pump,, rack) and as stated b4, it should be due up for Timing Belt as well as waterpump (you're right there,, just do them both). If you know how to sling a wrench, then the cost is not gonna be too bad. If you take this to the dealer or a trusted local mechanic, then your wallet will be close to $1200 lighter again. The LS is no rocket sled, more like a lead barge compared to the Z, so be prepared for a whole new driving experience.

ttyR2

I dunno. For as much as the Lex weighs, I'm tickled at how fast it merges into traffic on highway onramps when it's in the power band. Sure, it's no Corvette, but then it's not designed to be. Just smooooooth power.

python

iTrader: (4)

the Ls will outlast any Z especially those years

Rocan

very true... I love flipping the power switch and just flooring it... its so quite that i hear the slight tire squeal more then the engine

i have to let off the throttle though... i just dont FEEL like im doing 85 in this car =D

paulg123

My commute path has changed from a 5 lane freeway to a 2 lane highway (one each direction) and I am very surprised at the passing power on my 94 LS. The braking is also excellent, although I think they upgraded the brakes on the 94 model.
If you switch from the Z, another nice change you will find is cops won't give you a second look in the LS whereas they won't take their eyes off your Z.

MEANDAFAKA

^unless its all slamn and ponding the sound system with big fat deep dish rims

MEANDAFAKA

any update? did you trade the Z yet?

Chilkoot

At 77k miles the interior and exterior are probably cherry, it spent a lot of time sitting in the garage and not a lot of time on the road. If it's been garage kept I wouldn't worry too much about the timing belt either. Even if it does break it won't fry the engine. Make sure the water pump doesn't leak, but I wouldn't necessarily think the timing belt is imminent. Take a look under the oil cap and see if there's any sludge, if he kept up on his oil changes and the car is in great condition I'd say you're getting a hell of a deal.

Mine went 130k miles before i finally replaced it, and it looked to be in fine condition. No noise from the pulleys either. IMO let it go another 30k miles as long as you don't get any noise under the hood.