I've driven Mercedes since 94 and am now in the market for a new vehicle. I'm down to the LS460 and the BMW 740i. We have had 3 Lexus ES models in the family over the years and I know how great the reliability is, but both cars have their plus' and minus'. Like the Lexus for the solid and proven V-8, reliability, easy to use features and the interior. Like the BMW for the fun driving the car, the exterior styling and confortable seats, but I worry about the twin turbo reliability. Also, 740 model now being built is a 2012 and styling change is more recent than the 2011 LS, which I expect to change in 2013. Both cars are about the same on MPG. Want to make a decision soon before the availability of LS dwindles and the prices start rising. Has anyone debated a purchase between these cars or have any thoughts on the pluses and minus of both cars?

 

get the beemer, its newer and faster and handles better! Oh wait, it also costs alot more since the 740i was re-launched in 2011!

 

as well as it might spend more time in the shop than u actually driving it. nah I considered a beemer but I could deal with the fact that it might be a problem child. get what you think suits you.

 

If you are keeping the car for the long term, then get the LS. If you are going to get rid of the car within 4 years, then get the BMW. I considered leasing a BMW to take advantage of the free maintenance for 4 years. Ultimately, I got the LS because I'm planning on keeping the car for at least 7 years and do not like to lease.

 

I say LS..new 7 series is really nice, but unless their reliability is better, I say LS all day

 

May I suggest the edmunds.com cost of ownership calculator? I know it's a rather soulless measure of a car but in deciding between an '08 LS or 550S the difference in ownership cost over 5 years was $15k less for the LS. I was pretty well set on an LS anyhow but that certainly helped push me over the top in spite of preferring the 550's exterior and panache.

 

Get the 740i. I have a 2010 LS 460 sport and it's zero fun to drive.

 

I would get the LS, all BM's look alike these days.

 

i really noticed that the other day behind a new 5 series...exact shrinked replica of a 7..i was like..wow

 

Get the LS. Its going to treat you better. In the end it depends on what you value more. Handling and flash from the BMW and refinement and reliability from the Lexus.

 

I couldn't agree with you more. However I valued the reliability a bit more over performance this go around. Im kind of regretting it, however I'm still happy.

To make things worse, my car is in for service right now and they gave me an IS250, and IMHO, its awesome. Its very short on power however it handles like a dream and the road feel is way better than my LS. Now if it werent soo damn small, I'd think about buying one. It's sad when you take your flagship car in for service and you actually enjoy driving their lowest model "loaner" car.

 

I agree just difference in style one is sporty and suppose to zip you around compared to luxury feel and comftyness of the LS.

 

It's nice to have the choice! I'm 6'5" 275, I don't really fit in the sporty cars, I tried to test drive a new 'vette the other day, I literally couldn't get in. Give me the big bodies.

 

i'd say get the beemer.. u get more for ur money.... all the time it'll spend in service.. u'll be able to drive every other series on the lot...... was a big B-Em fan (90's) since i've owned a lexus i cant imagine goin back

 

Point made... Match point!