raphaelmsx

Hi people.

I am planning to buy a Lexus LS 400 first generation, and deciding if I buy a 1990 or 1993 model. The 1990 model is a little bit cheaper where I live, so I'm considering it.

I have some doubts about the differences, can you help me decide?

From what I've read on wikipedia, "The vehicle received larger disc brakes, wheels, and tires, and adjustments were made to the suspension and power steering systems to improve handling."

So, regarding handling, what is really the difference, the steering feels heavier?

About the seat belt pretensioner not available on the 1990 model, does it make a big difference? My current car has a seat belt pretensioner, and I like it, because it's very light when you pull it, and I can't even feel it when driving. I just want to know if in the 1990 without it I will feel the seat belt heavier on me while driving.

And what about the chlorofluorocarbon-free refrigerant used on the 1993, does it make the air conditioner better or easier to do maintenance?

Last question, is there any other significant change?

Now just one preference, I prefer the non-digital odometer of the first model.

Thank you!
Raphael

Dtwillis5

With a refrigerant 134a use in the 93 it supposed to be ozone safer and you can buy it anywhere they probably don't sell the old refrigerant no more but if you get the 90 you can always change refrigerants. I would get whichever one run the best.

raphaelmsx

Right, but if changing the refrigerant, do I need to change something else in the air conditioner in order to accept it?

SkulCracka

http://autoacrepairs.com/134aConversion.htm

google is your friend.

raphaelmsx

Ok, thanks all for the answers.

But what about the other questions, can someone help me? I couldn't find in google.

Thank you!

PointABE

iTrader: (2)

http://www.lexls.com/info/lsgenerations.html

Here's a great site for the differences in each year of production of the LS.

SkulCracka

there is no digital OD in the 1989-1994 models. 89-92 is known as ucf10, 93-94 is ucf11. i just got my 93 about a month ago.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

93-94 have digital odometers. 89-92 are purely mechanical.

radiokilla

1993 also has painted sideskirts as opposed to the black ones found on the 1990. Either way you are going to be buying an awesome car.

LiCelsior

iTrader: (32)

93-94 rox all

LiCelsior

iTrader: (32)

and wrong, ucf10 is regular susp and ucf11 is air susp.

SkulCracka

oh my bad when i think digital ... i think LCD.

raphaelmsx

Very good informative page, but here's one of my doubts:

"- Steering shaft increased and steering characteristics were revised."

Ok, but how to describe this, does it feel lighter or heavier in comparison with the 1990 model?

I am familiar with a Camry 1993, and the power steering feels very light, very easy to maneuver even with the car stopped and using just one hand, but then, I've also driven a Corolla 1998, and the steering felt a lot heavier than the Camry. I liked the Camry a lot better.

The other question:

"- Seat belt pretensioner functions were added to the front belts."

My current car has a seat belt pretensioner, and I like it, because it's very light when you pull it, and I can't even feel it when driving. I just want to know if in the 1990 without it I will feel the seat belt heavier on me while driving.

I will eventually be testing drive both cars, but I want to know beforehand from the experts here what to expect.

Thank you!

deanshark

I'll tell you what to expect. Expect to be amazed and appreciate the 93 over the 90 by a long shot. As you've already read, the 93 has alot of improvements over the 90. The first thing you will notice (by looks) is the bigger wheels. If you're gonna leave everything stock then the 16" are much, much better then the 15" wheels.

Kansas

That's not what the pretensioners do. They are part of the safety system. The pretensioners are like or may even be little explosive charges that take up slack in the front seat belts as the air bags deploy.

At this point, there is going to be little difference in the price of a good condition 90 LS and 93 LS in similar condition. After driving a 90 LS for 13 1/2 years I consider the standard tire size too small, the brake system inadequate and stopping distances too long. The 93-94 LS feels more substantial and it should because it put on quite a bit of weight. Some of the added weight was for the fancy air filtration system which was an expensive option on the pre-1993 Japanese market LS400.

I recommend the 93-up LS400.