Mike@Zspeed

Hey guys,
I've been reading this site off and on for over 1 yr now. Finaly thought since I probally will be considering getting my 1st lexus I should introduce myself.

I will be graduating from scool next yr, and am debating which lexus to get. My budget is mid $15k range. Give or take a couple thousand $ too. I know I realy can't get too much for that, but it's a start.

I've been doing a lot of searching for cars on the net and have found pretty much 1 in each model that I like. But which to choose? I've found some 60k miled range early LS400's, some early GS300's with 70K mile range and some early to mid SC models with low miles too. All are pretty much in the same price range, and the ones with the least amount of miles are the SC's and LS's.

I'm not going simply for power or speed. And will doubtfully do any upgrades to increase HP. I also own a Stillen GTZ and Nissan 300zx. Those suit my speed issues fine. But if the car has some ponies from the start, that's fine. I'm not simply going for a bigger engine, but if it's got one that's just a plus.

More then anything I want comfort and reliability. And something that will run for EVER!!! One that when it gets over 150k miles I dont have to worry about.

If you guys can help me out that'd be much highly appreciated.

Thank you
-Michael

GA400

Hi Michael,

Congrats on graduating. Congrats also on choosing to get a Lexus. In my experience and from reading Consumer Reports, all Lexus models have the same unusually high reliability, so any model should give you the reliability and longevity you want. If you want maximum modifiability and power, my personal recommendation is the SC400 for a two-door and a GS400 for a four door. That gives you the v8, but only automatic transmission. There are some SC300's with a five speed, if you want that feature. I personally drive an LS400, which has excellent power, but it is not designed for high speed cornering. Great for long-distance trips, though.

Go test drive a few different ones. Your local Lexus dealer will be happy to hook you up with some high quality used Lexus'.

Have fun (scare the salesmen)!

GA400

healerhand

Hello Michael,

I am so glad you have interest in Lexus. I have currently own a supercharged 98 cobra (i spend over $30k on upgrades with over 500 rwhp), 2001 Acura MDX and Honda Del Sol. Lexus is the best car from Japan and LS400 or LS430 is the best of the best.

I got an LS because i have a small infant. If i am single, i would get a SC400. Lexus engine runs forever. V8 will give you plenty of power. The V8 is very smooth and quite.

My recommandation is any V8 will be nice. If you like LS400, get 93 and up without Air suspension. Air Supsension is very nice and smooth, but its expensive to replace them. AS is about $840 each.

The engine will give you at least 300k miles. Some have reported 600k miles. Engine are cheap too. Used engine from Japan is less than a grand.

Good luck and enjoy the best of the best.


P.S.

I have a 90 LS400 and it rides like a brand new Camery or Avalon.


dc

epineffreen

i just recently hit 160k on my 1990 LS400, still purrs like a kitten. its a great investment and its a great car.