6 Lexus Headed for Classic Status

SC300/SC400

The Lexus SC has already reached "classic status" even if the prices for one doesn't reflect it. The grand tourer was in production from 1991 to 2010 and featured a front engine, rear-wheel drive layout that came in either V6 or V8 flavors. The car was formulated to compete on the luxury market against the likes of the SL Merc, Infiniti M30 coupe, 3 Series coupe, and Acura Legend coupe. The SC 300 hit the market in the United States in July of 1992 with a 3.0-liter inline 6 2JZ-GE. The larger engine SC 400 debuted in June of 1991 in the States as a 1992 model. The V8 in the 400 was a 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE that was the same powerplant used in the LS 400 of the time. The SC 400 was awarded the honor of being Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year for 1992 along with Car and Driver Ten Best list from 1992 to 1996. Near the end of the decade sales for the luxury coupe were dwindling due to a lack of upgrades to keep the cars relevant in such a competitive marketplace. 

IS300 SportCross

The Lexus IS300 SportCross is a fairly desirable five-door model and the prices are rising thanks to its relatively rare public appearances these days. Its hatchback wagon style extends the IS roofline to a rather aggressive racked backlight. Most shooting brakes like these are niche cars that were not mass-produced during their time which makes them rare, in some cases classic, and in most cases highly valuable. There is no reason to think that the Lexus SportCross can't join that elite group of vehicles.

>>Join the conversation about Lexus vehicles that may become classics right here in Club Lexus.

LS400

The original LS is one of the most dependable and well-built cars ever produced. It was also largely responsible for helping Lexus establish itself as a brand, as the flagship sedan proved to be quite popular. Designed and built without a budget or time constraints, Toyota had only one goal when building the LS - to make a world-class luxury sedan that would surpass all others. The result was a car that was faster, quieter, more fuel efficient, and more aerodynamic than the competition. Combine that with a host of industry-first technology and safety features, and you've got the makings of a car that people will be clamoring for in the future.

>>Join the conversation about Lexus vehicles that may become classics right here in Club Lexus.

Lexus ES250

The Lexus ES250 is derided by some as just a fancy Camry, but it is more than that. Believe it or not, some people in Japan actually think they are collectible and rare, and refer to them as USDM cars, because the Japanese version was slightly different. Japan actually didn't get anything branded as a Lexus until recently. And even in the US, these cars are relatively rare when compared to other mass market vehicles. The USDM Jam celebrates cars like this and other Japanese American models every year.

>>Join the conversation about Lexus vehicles that may become classics right here in Club Lexus.

IS F

The high-performance IS F debuted in the U.S. back in 2008, packing a 5.0 liter V8 pumping out 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque. It was a highly capable performance coupe, registering an impressive 4.7 second 0-60 time and running the 1/4 mile in 13.1 seconds. A host of suspension upgrades and bigger brakes ensured that the IS F handled just as good as it performed in a straight line. And relatively small production numbers mean that the hot rod Lexus is bound to be an appreciating asset in the future.

>>Join the conversation about Lexus vehicles that may become classics right here in Club Lexus.

LFA

This two-seat sports car is the second model in the F marque line of performance vehicles from Lexus, following the IS F. The first LF-A concept premiered in 2005, followed in 2007 by a second concept which included a more refined interior and exterior. The third version of the LF-A concept, which featured a roadster body style, was shown in 2008. The production model, trademarked LFA, was unveiled in October 2009. The production version of the Lexus LFA features an all-new even firing V10 engine and a carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) body.  Production ended in December 2012 with 500 cars produced. The LFA cost $375,000 new, but the best indicator that the LFA is already headed into "classic car" territory is the sticker-shocked reality that if you want to buy one today, expect to pay somewhere between $450,000 to $700,000!

>>Join the conversation about Lexus vehicles that may become classics right here in Club Lexus.

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