Hi all

I am new to the site and have a few questions.

I am getting ready to sell my 1997 MB s500 and am thinking of a 2003-2004 ls 430. I know the styling is similar to the Benz, and I am sure the maintenance will be less demanding. I am spending roughly $3000-4000 a year on repairs.





One of the reasons I have become disenchanted with the Benz is the suspension. It just seems to wiggle from side to side on the slightest of rough roads. My mechanic has changed out the springs, front shocks, one rear strut, and the hydraulic spheres. He is unsure what to do next and says that all series 140 Mercedes feel that way.

My questions are:

How would you rate the LS430 as far as ride quality?

Is the power about the same?

Is there any year of LS that is better or worse then any other?

What changes were made on the 2004 models?

Which year do you recommend? I'm trying to keep it under $30,000 if possible.

How much should I expect to spend on maintenance per year?

Which options that I have now on the Benz will I not have unless I get the ultra pkg?

Thanks in advance
Your advice is much appreciated

 

You'll want a 2004 (or later) model, it has bluetooth and a number of other features. You'll need to spend ~$35K to get a "good deal" on a UL 2004 or a "loaded" one.

Good chance a 2004 will still be under warranty. Maintenance per year? Perhaps $150 for the 2 oil changes Brakes and the 60,000 are around $500/ea if I recall. I can't believe you're spending $3-$4K/yr on your Mercedes. That's NUTS!

I'd try to find a UL (Ultra Luxury) 2004. No difference between 2004-2006 except price.

Good luck!

 

Havn't driven one since my brothers 2001 about five years ago.
no experience
2004 and above have some serious upgrades in styling and options.
Smart Key (not standard on all early model 04's), Bluetooth, Standard heated and cooled seats, updated front facia with more aggressivly styled headlights, newer clear tail lights with LED bulbs, single 2 shelf glove box,

If you can afford an 04' go for it. Depend on what mileage you are looking for but 50k or so and you should be able to pick up one for around 30k if you work a good deal.

 

I just bought a LS430 I am trying to sell my S600 which like your car is basically worthless, I spent $5.40 per mile on the Benz, the W140 is a fabulous vehicle but for all the expense it’s a piece of s#*t at the same time. You will need an UL 2004 + and at least $35K to come close, and it does a reasonable job. Though my 600 has way more power and is a bit more luxurious/prestigious the Lexus will be DEPENDABLE and for you and I cheap to fix. I have a RX300 for my daily driver and in 5 years and 138,000 miles I have spent less than $2k on maintenance (not including tires) I like you was spending about $3K per year on the Benz and have been driving it less than 10K miles per year.
No the Lexus is not quite the same but for the money you can’t go wrong, my Benz was $130K new and the Lexus 8 years newer was only $66K. If money is no object and you can buy a new Benz and just keep it during the warrantee then there is no sub...But if you are like me I just had to say enough is enough and made the minor downgrade.

JMHO

 

Get the Lexus LS430. The ride is smooth and maintenance is reasonable. Get the 04+ model because of the upgrades.

 

It has been almost 5 years, but I am sure he will appreciate your response. Maybe he didn't make a decision yet.

 

Glad you pointed this out. When I saw two different people suggest that $35K was a reasonable price to pay for an 04 LS, I about fell over. Heck, I just bought an 07 for not much more than that!

 

Lol, word. I just picked up my 04 Premium (with 74k) for $16,900. Flawless car, in perfect shape. Not a single blemish. You can get these cars for a steal if you shop around.

OP:

Sorry you're having so many issues with your W140--that's my favorite car of all time, hands down. I came so close to pulling the trigger on a '99 S500, but have deferred because of the potential maintenance. I figure I have the next best thing....the LS is basically a clone, and built every bit as solid. More reliable too. Win/win situation. Good luck!