I had a 2000 MB S-500 AMG sport package (leased.....thank god). Powerful, but handling sucked. Navigation sucked ***. Interior is very nice and comfy though .

Switched to the 2003 BMW 530 and 2003 X5. 5 series did not feel powerful or nearly as powerful as the S500, but it was quick. Definitely less powerful than a GS430. Car handled amazing. Engine reved amazingly. Definitely had a sportier feel than any of the MB's I've driven.

The X5 driving experienced sucked. But we all know that we shouldn't expect too much from an SUV. It's an okay car.

Now i have a 2001 LS430 UL package. Best car by far out of all of them. Waaay better than the S500. Smooth. But not as sporty as the BMW 5 series.

I now prefer the Lexus because of the luxurious feel and amenities it comes with. I'm also going for the VIP look

That is my experience. I have an FD3S Rx7 that I use to drive if im in the mood for power and sportiness so I don't really need to have that in the Lexus. The only problem I have with the Lexus is that it's sooo damn smooth that I might fall asleep at the wheel.

 

I've had about 35 vehicles so far, but the ones most relevant to this topic were 3 BMWs, 3 MBs, and the 03 LS430. The LS is hands down the best way to travel, IMO. NONE of these giant cars are sports cars, period. So one just has to get over that part. However, I changed the wheels and tires, installed Tein CS coilovers, and built an exhaust system for the LS and I think it's kind of the best of both worlds now. With the changes I lost a little bit of the amazingly smooth ride, but dramatically increased the sporting feel of the car. I think it looks much better too, but that's personal preference. It's now a car that I'm happy that I own pretty much every minute I'm driving it.