LS430 chip/software upgrade possible?
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Driver School Candidate
Joined: Aug 2010
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From: ca
LS430 chip/software upgrade possible?
Hi guys, I'm new to the club/forum. I was looking to trade in my IS300 for a 2004 LS430. Did a little research and I'm confused about performance chips/software upgrades: can any of this be done on this car to boost performance? I'm also interested because my mom just bought a 2004 SC430and she does not like the sluggish throttle (she's been driving my BMW 330i for a while and she likes it how it explodes when she gun's it). Any help would be appreciated!
You may want to look into the Blitz Throttle Controller, since the car is drive by wire.
http://www.blitzpowerusa.com/product...n/throcon.html
http://www.blitzpowerusa.com/product...n/throcon.html
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 4
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From: ca
That may be yor opinion and I respect that, but I'm not sure you would be saying that if you have driven a 330i, hear me out: my wifes daily driver is the 330i with sport package, that car explodes as soon as you step on the gas! She was actually the first to notice the SC430 not being as responsive as hers and she's not a car nut (BTW, sluggish might not have been the best word, it's just not as explosive off the line as the BMW).
Lead Lap
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 454
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From: KS/MO
The LS430 has "Mercedes throttle" syndrome (pretty much every aspect of the LS430 seems like it was designed to take after Merc, save for the reliability I hope). I assure you, the 330i blows the doors off the Lexus in terms of throttle *feel*. What's actually happening outside the car may be another story, but as far as what you feel in the driver's seat... its like your foot is connected directly to the cylinders.
My 2005 Crossfire SRT-6 (an SLK32 AMG underneath the sheetmetal) will demolish any stock V8 Lexus save for MAYBE the IS-F, yet by contrast its crappy Mercedes throttle modulation, and the fact that its a V6 versus an I6 in the BMW, makes it far less entertaining and a major reason I'm dumping it.
The 2001 330i is among the favorite cars I ever owned, even if not as flashy or luxurious as many of the others. What a solid car.
Isn't the Sprint Booster another throttle improvement device? I mean they advertise on this forum.
My 2005 Crossfire SRT-6 (an SLK32 AMG underneath the sheetmetal) will demolish any stock V8 Lexus save for MAYBE the IS-F, yet by contrast its crappy Mercedes throttle modulation, and the fact that its a V6 versus an I6 in the BMW, makes it far less entertaining and a major reason I'm dumping it.
The 2001 330i is among the favorite cars I ever owned, even if not as flashy or luxurious as many of the others. What a solid car.
Isn't the Sprint Booster another throttle improvement device? I mean they advertise on this forum.
Last edited by Playdrv4me; Aug 30, 2010 at 11:34 PM.
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Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: California
Dang, you must not be a big guy if a crossfire is your daily. I'm 6'2 260 and I literally would not be able to drive one even in an emergency. Kind of sucks being a larger frame dude sometimes. 
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Lead Lap
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: KS/MO
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 861
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From: California
I don't know how you do it. LOL! Actually come to think of it, I was about 285 when I sat in the Crossfire about four years ago. It was about three years ago and I was hitting the gym regularly so I was bigger all around. It might not be as cramped now.
Lead Lap
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 454
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From: KS/MO
Once I am in it is actually semi-comfortable with the Suede and Leather seats, but man is it a bytch GETTING in and out.
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