02befree

Really impressed by the knowledge and community on this Forum. Wow. Been shopping for a Lexus for a few months and have certainly learned a lot from you guys/gals.

Finding some good deals on 95-97 LS models with good maintenance and sub 200k mileage that are in the $4000 range - some closer to $3500. Wondering if it's worth it to bump up to the 98-00 generation and pay another $1500 with similar mileage. A little more hp, etc. seems to be the main difference. Are they as reliable? Any input is appreciated.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Welcome to Club Lexus and that you'll find your LS.

Both are very reliable. I would also suggest your search towards the 98+ due to the nicer performing engine, tranny as well as HID headlights. The back seat also had a middle headrest.

Sc0pe

iTrader: (1)

Of the two, I'd say lean more toward the 98-00s. As RA40 said above, you get a higher performing engine (290 hp ans 300 ft. lbs of torque) and transmission (which get you a little better gas mileage unless you like to hit the rev limiter a lot). Conversely, if you're looking to modify, things might get a little complicated.

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

those two LS' are really not comparable, the 98-00 is so far advanced over the 95-97 models, it is not reasonable. there is probably more improvements at that split than anywhere else: look this over:
1999 LS400 factory specifications from website.
Beneath the elegant exterior of the 1999 LS 400 lies the thundering force of a 290-horsepower V8 engine. It also features sophisticated safety features like Vehicle Skid Control (VSC).1
The 1999 Lexus LS 400 has retained the features refined in the 1998 design. Additional modifications include daytime running lights, and it now meets Transitional Low-Emission Vehicle (T-LEV) certification for all 50 states. The 1999 LS 400 is also available in a new color: Mystic Gold Metallic.
PERFORMANCE
• 0 - 60 mph acceleration 6.3 seconds4
• 1/4-mile acceleration 14.8 seconds4
• Top track speed 149 mph5
• Fuel consumption 19/25 mpg city/highway6
• Aerodynamic drag coefficient 0.28
1998 ratings 6.4 and 14.8, 3890 pounds.
2000 ratings 6.4 and 15.0, 3890 pounds.
DIMENSIONS
• Overall length 196.7 in
• Width 72.0 in
• Height 56.5 in (55.9 in with Electronic Air Suspension)
• Wheelbase 112.2 in
• Curb weight 3,890 lb
• Trunk space 13.9 cubic feet
• Fuel-tank capacity 22.5 gallons
ENGINE
• 90º V8, aluminum block and heads, Transitional Low-Emission Vehicle (T-LEV)
• Horsepower at rpm 290 hp @ 6,000
• Torque at rpm 300 lb-ft @ 4,000
TRANSMISSION
• Five-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). Overdrive fifth gear, auto-select shift program, engine/transmission networking, flex-lockup torque converter
Selected Standard Features
SAFETY EQUIPMENT
• Driver's and front passenger's airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)2
• Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags (SRS)2
• Three-point seatbelts front and rear, fronts with height-adjustable anchors, pre-tensioners and force limiters
• Vehicle Skid Control (VSC)1
• Daytime running lights
• Strong cabin structure with front and rear crumple zones
• Side-impact beams (front gusseted)
• Rear-window defogger with auto-off timer
• Variable intermittent windshield wipers with mist cycle
• Halogen headlamps with integrated foglamps
• Electrochromic rearview mirrors, outsides with defoggers
• Vehicle theft-deterrent and immobilizer system, with in-key transponder
• Four-wheel ventilated Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• First aid kit
• Tool kit
LUXURY & CONVENIENCE
• Multi-information display with drive computer
• Multi-adjustable power front seats
• Power windows with auto open/close feature with pinch protection
• Dual-zone automatic climate control with interior air filter and smog sensor
• Lexus Memory System to control power driver's seat (except lumbar), outside rearview mirrors, driver's shoulder belt anchor height and steering wheel
• Leather-trimmed seating surfaces and interior
• Walnut interior trim
• Wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift ****
• Three-way programmable transmitter to activate garage door, driveway gate
• Power tilt-and-telescopic steering column with automatic tilt-away
• Power door locks with driver's two-turn unlock feature
• Dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors
• Sliding left and right sun visors, center sun visor
• AM/FM/cassette seven-speaker 195-watt (max power) audio system
• Multifunction remote entry system
• Retained accessory power
• Dual-compartment center console with accessory power outlet and Lexus Cellular Phone storage capability
• Floor mats
• Headrests for all seats, including rear-center
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
Premium Package
• In-dash, six-disc CD auto-changer
• Power tilt-and-slide moonroof with one-touch open/close, pinch protection and sliding sunshade
• High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
Nakamichi Audio System Package
• Lexus/Nakamichi 280-watt (max power) Premium Sound System
• In-dash, six-disc CD auto-changer
• Power tilt-and-slide moonroof with one-touch open/close, pinch protection and sliding sunshade
• Heated front seats
• High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
Navigation System Package
• Lexus Navigation System3
• In-dash, six-disc CD auto-changer
• Power tilt-and-slide moonroof with one-touch open/close, pinch protection and sliding sunshade
• High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
• Heated front seats
Individual Options
• Power tilt-and-slide moonroof with one-touch open/close, pinch protection and sliding sunshade
• In-dash, six-disc CD auto-changer
• Nakamichi Audio System Package or Navigation System Package
• Electronic Air
• Heated front seats (requires Premium Package)
• Lexus Chrome Wheels
• All-season tires (no-cost option)




CHANGES MADE TO THE 1999 LS 400
Standard Features:
• Adoption of driver's-side outside mirror tilt-down feature
• Floor mats standardized
• Wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift **** standardized
• Daytime running lights
• Meets Transitional Low-Emission Vehicle (T-LEV) certification for 50 states
Optional Features:
• New exterior color: Mystic Gold Metallic
1Lexus Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) is an electronic system designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver steering input can all affect whether VSC will be effective in preventing a loss of control. Please see your Owner's Manual for further details.
2The Lexus driver's, front passenger's, and front seat-mounted side-impact airbags are a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The driver's and front passenger's airbags are designed to inflate in a severe frontal collision. The side-impact airbags are designed to inflate in a severe side-impact collision. In all other accidents, the airbags will not inflate. To decrease the risk of injury from a deploying airbag, always wear seatbelts, sit upright in the middle of the seat, and do not lean against the door. Do not put objects in front of an airbag or around the seatback. Do not use rearward-facing child seats in any front passenger seat. The force of a deploying airbag SRS may cause serious injury. Please see your Owner's Manual for further instructions.
3The Lexus Navigation System is designed to assist in locating an address or point of interest. Discrepancies may be encountered between the system and your actual location. Changes in street names, road closures, traffic flow or other road system changes may affect the accuracy of the mapping software. Rely upon your common sense to decide whether or not to follow a specified route. Detailed coverage not available in every city. Optional periodic geographic updates available at an additional cost. See your Navigation Owner's Manual and your Lexus dealer for further details.
4Motor Trend, December 1997. These performance capacity figures are for comparison only and were obtained with prototype vehicles by professional drivers using special safety equipment and procedures. These should not be attempted on public streets or highways.
5These performance capacity figures are for comparison only and were obtained with prototype vehicles by professional drivers using special safety equipment and procedures. These should not be attempted on public streets or highways.
6Preliminary mileage figures determined by Lexus. See your Lexus dealer for details.


Evolution of the LS Series
1990
- Introduction of the First Generation LS400 Series I.
- Top speed = 149.1 mph; 0-60 = 8.2 seconds; 0-400m = 15.8 seconds.
1991
- Improved emissions.
- Front brake calipers were upgraded from single to twin piston for better performance.
- Key-off operation function was added to the power windows and moon roof.
- Daytime running light system was added for all Canadian models.
- Larger switch on the key for increased keyless entry ease of use.
- Conventional flat horn was replaced by a spiral horn to improve sound.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 8.2 seconds; 0-400m = 15.8 seconds.
1992
- Basically there were no changes. 1992 LS400's are virtually the same as 1991 LS400's.
- The daytime running light system for Canadian models was slightly changed so that they illuminate at 80-85% of capacity instead of full.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 8.2 seconds; 0-400m = 15.8 seconds.
1993
- The LS400 Series II debuts with more than 50 changes, many as a direct response to dealer and customer requests.
- Slightly refined front grille. The vertical bars are less prominent so the horizontal lines show more.
- Headlight beam pattern improved.
- Front lower spoiler and rear undercover colors now matched with vehicle body color.
- Side body molding thickness was increased and larger rocker moldings with body matching color.
- Outside rear view mirror visors were slightly elongated and mirror adjustability increased.
- Larger 16" wheels with a new design.
- Leather door trim inserts became standard.
- Front roof headliner, sun visors, and center visor were changed to fabric.
- Steering wheel was slightly changed and the overdrive switch on the shifter was moved to the side.
- Minor stereo improvements.
- Aluminum radiator.
- EGR and EVAP systems now controlled by the engine ECU.
- A secondary air injection system was added to the emission control system on California spec models.
- Fluid temperature sensor was added to the transmission.
- Revised differential mounts.
- Bigger brakes and electronic brake-pad wear warning system added.
- Front and rear suspension improvements for better ride comfort.
- Steering shaft increased and steering characteristics were revised.
- Automatic light control system added.
- Illuminated entry system revised.
- Instrument cluster revised. Illumination adjusting system, electronic odometer, and exterior temperature gauge added. Warning lights were added and relocated.
- R134a became standard in the air conditioning system. A clean-air filter with odor-removing function was added.
- Keyless entry system revised.
- Lumbar support and vertical adjustments were added to the front passenger seat.
- Front passenger SRS air bag added.
- Seat belt pretensioner functions were added to the front belts.
- Cruise control system revised.
- Trunk lock improved.
- A few other minor improvements....
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 7.9 seconds; 0-400m = 15.8 seconds.
1994
- Basically there were no changes. 1994 LS400's are virtually the same as 1993 LS400's.
- An EGR gas temperature sensor was now used on all models to conform to OBD-I requirements.
- The daytime running light system for Canadian models was slightly changed so that it now only operated the low-beam headlights.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 7.9 seconds; 0-400m = 15.8 seconds.
1995
- Introduction of the completely redesigned Second Generation LS400 Series III.
- Basically the second gen LS is bigger, slightly more powerful, and a new design all around. Since it was completely redesigned pretty much everything looks different on both the interior and exterior. Take a look at the pictures above to note these changes. I will list some less visible differences below....
- The 1UZ-FE engine was improved in several areas. Headers were changed from the single type to semi-dual type for better exhaust flow.
- Bigger and better brakes. The front brakes were changed from a single-sided 2-piston type to an opposed-cylinder 4-piston type.
- A few suspension improvements.
- LS400 emblem added to the trunk.
- Body is more rigid and made of anti-corrosion steel.
- More sound deadening to further reduce engine and road noise.
- The power tilt and power telescopic steering column became standard.
- 4-headlight system.
- Light auto turn-off system now standard.
- Automatic light control system became standard.
- Headlight cleaner became standard on Canadian models.
- Vehicle-speed sensing control was added to the intermittent wiper with an adjustable time function.
- 3-jet type windshield washer nozzles.
- A one-touch slide-open function was added to the moonroof (optional) and the tilt-up reminder function was discontinued.
- A windshield heater became standard for Canadian models.
- Dual airbags became standard.
- Space for a portable first-aid kit designed into the driver's side front seat.
- Rear armrest now equipped with a push-open type cup holder.
- A 3-point seat belt for the rear center seat was added for the first time on a Lexus.
- A front passenger side temperature control switch was added to offer dual front climate zones for better control.
- The electronic odometer was moved to the bottom center of the instrument cluster and the warning lights were lined up in a straight line on the bottom of the cluster. The temperature gauge is now separate and not in the instrument cluster.
- The optional CD changer was now mounted into the upper glove box.
- A trunk lid opener button and panic button were added to the wireless door lock system remote.
- And more...
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 7.7 seconds; 0-400m = 15.2 seconds.
1996
- Basically there were no changes. 1996 LS400's are virtually the same as 1995 LS400's.
- A diagnosis function was added for the evaporative emission control system.
- Slight change in the cruise control system.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = ? seconds; 0-400m = 15.2 seconds.
1997
- Lexus and Coach, the renowned manufacturer of distinguished leather products, announce the production of a distinctive limited edition LS400 sedan.
- A power outlet was added in the lower center console box to enable accessories like a cell phone.
- The engine control system was partially changed.
- An engine immobilizer was added to improve the vehicle's theft prevention performance.
- ABS and TRAC actuators were changed.
- Reinforcements were added around the cabin to improve body rigidity.
- Air conditioning system slightly refined.
- SRS front side airbags were added into the front seatbacks.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 7.7 seconds; 0-400m = 15.2 seconds.
1998
- The LS400 Series IV debuts with many improvements.
- Redesigned front end. Changes to the hood, fenders, grille, front bumper, and front lights.
- Discharge headlight became standard equipment on Canadian models and optional equipment for US models.
- Slightly refined rear lights.
- Outer rearview mirror was changed to reduce wind noise.
- Wheels were redesigned and now have 5 spokes.
- A retractable headrest was added to the rear center seat.
- Another rear personal light was added to the rear quarter pillar area.
- A leather & wood steering wheel and wood shifter were introduced as optional equipment.
- VVT-i (variable valve timing-intelligent) system and the ACIS (acoustic control induction system) was adopted in the 1UZ-FE engine to improve fuel economy, improve performance, and reduce emissions. ETCS-i (electronic throttle control system) was also added to ensure excellent controllability of the vehicle and improve its comfort. Worlds first production V8 engine with VVT-i.
- 290 hp @ 6000 rpm and 300 ft-lbs of torque @ 4000 rpm.
- The 4-speed automatic transmission was replaced by a 5-speed transmission.
- Propeller shaft was slightly changed.
- The differential gear ratio was reduced to improve fuel economy. 2 mounts were used on both the front and rear of the differential to further reduce vibration and noise.
- The VSC (Vehicle Skid Control) system was added.
- Suspension and brakes slightly revised.
- The hydraulic circuit of the power steering system changed.
- More work on the body and sound dampening material to further reduce vibration and noise.
- An automatic headlight beam level control system was added to models with HID headlights.
- A headlight off delay system was added to keep the headlights on for a set period of time after occupants exit the car.
- A multi-information display was added to the instrument cluster to display vehicle data and warnings. The design of the shift indicator was changed.
- An automatic recirculation system was added to automatically switch the air inlet mode in accordance with the level of concentration of harmful elements in the air.
- An all-door one-touch auto up and down function was added.
- A jam protection function was added to prevent a person's hand or other object from becoming caught in the door window.
- A function to operate all windows was added to the door lock remote control.
- Changes were made to the engine immobiliser system. The starter cutoff function was discontinued. The theft deterrent system was slightly changed.
- The construction and operation of the inflator for the front passenger air bag was changed.
- A garage door opener was added to the map lamp area.
- A seat belt warning for the front passenger was added. The display method for the seat belt warning system changed from the illumination type to the flashing type.
- A navigation system was offered for the first time as an option.
- Some changes to the audio system. A diversity rear window imprinted antenna system started to be used.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.9 seconds.
1999
- The wood shift **** became standard equipment.
- A few engine refinements.
- Steering column was slightly refined.
- The daytime running light system became standard equipment. This is basically the same system the Canadian models had been using for years.
- A blank mode was added for the instrument cluster where no cruise information appears.
- A change was made to the reverse shift function linked to the outer rear view mirrors.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.9 seconds.
2000
- Three tether anchor brackets for mounting the CRS (child restraint system) are provided.
- ORVR (on-board refueling vapor recovery) system was added to the engine.
- A brake assist system was added to ensure for enough braking force in emergencies.
- The seat memory system was slightly changed.
- Top speed = 149 mph; 0-60 = 6.3 seconds; 0-400m = 14.9 seconds.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

Thanks for the list. Amazing to see all the changes between them. That should have just sold the 98+.

Kansas

The 98-up LS400 has Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as a standard feature which, IMO, is the most important safety system introduced since ABS braking. Having experienced the effects of VSC - particularly when driving on snow packed roads - I could not comprehend buying a vehicle without it or a similar system.

02befree

Many thanks - Potent info!

LScowboyLS

horsepower, stability control, side air bags and further improved theft deterrent system are the main things on that list for me!

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

like everyone is saying, i would get a 98-up. i actually prefer a 99 which has a bit more stuff standard. mind you i am a 97 owner . they are both incredibly reliable so that should be of no worry to you, that is of course if the maintenance is up to date.

billydpowe

iTrader: (1)

Yep, 99's are my favorite (that is why I have two of them) but I have also had 96 & 97's too. And i think the 95-97 is probably the strongest, toughest, one of the bunch, it is just the next generation had so many improvements that I liked.

omarg

my gf has a 2000 with 216k on it. Its been very reliable in the 3+ years she's owned it. It has needed routine maint/suspension, and the evap developed a leak, but other than that its golden( literally!)

I have a 95 with 156k on it. I bought it almost 4 years ago and it has also been very reliable, only needing brakes and starter contacts and maint.

I prefer her car (2000) with HID's, side airbags, mpg readout, and most of all... stability control. 2000 models added emergency brake assist which has definitely saved us at least twice. The bumpers are much better too. I remember seeing a low speed test where a 97 and a 98 ls400 both backed into a pole at 5 mph. 97 had moderate damage to bumper and trunklid. 98 didn't have a ding or scratch. something else to consider

Go for a 98-00 with the best maint records you can find.And if the starter has been replaced, thats a huge plus!!!!

Trust us the 98-00 models are worth the extra $$$