2000 Lexus LS 400 is a Pure Classic
Lexus created an excellent sequel to the original LS 400. This 20 year old example is proof positive of that. And it can be yours!
What is the greatest sequel of all time? The Empire Strikes Back? Perhaps the Super Nintendo? What about the second generation Lexus LS 400? It followed up the groundbreaking original with many improvements. Visually, it didn’t set the world on fire. But it did offer that trademark Lexus quality. And now a pristine example of one is on the market.
The 20 year old LS 400 recently showed up on Cars & Bids, a newly launched automotive auction website. Basically, they specialize in your typical collectibles. However, they also regularly feature underappreciated classics, like our featured sedan. And what a doozy it is!
Peak LS 400?
While the current LS represents the best of Lexus, the early models really changed things up. Toyota launched Lexus and the LS 400 with the goal of upending the luxury status quo. And that’s exactly what it did. None of the German luxury automakers offered anything close in quality to the LS 400. Especially at the price Lexus charged for it. Rivals scrambled to introduce legitimate entries of their own. But even to this day Lexus still beats out the competition, which has still failed to truly match the brand’s commitment to quality.
Although our featured LS 400 is not a member of that hallowed first generation, it still presents itself as a sterling example of what Lexus is capable of. Styling wise, it may not have reinvented things. But that’s because it didn’t have to.
Fantastic Follow-up
While the second generation LS 400 didn’t jump start an exterior design revolution, it did boast a significantly upgraded interior over its first gen counterpart. Fortunately, the original owner opted for the equipment that mattered. This Lexus has the Platinum Series Package. Maple wood trim, Royale leather seats, HID headlights, and Black Pearl badging were included with the package. Overall, those additions really enhance the car significantly. Tragically, the brightly colored wood trend faded away pretty rapidly in the 2000s, which makes it a product of the era in which it was produced. That being said, the trim looks like it came right out of the factory. And it contrasts really well with the darker colored portions of the cabin.
Superb Sedan
What are the benefits of buying this particular LS 400? For starters, it’s got incredibly low mileage for its age. Any vehicle with around 70,000 miles still has life left in it. But for a Lexus, that’s a different story. In some respects it’s essentially brand new. That doesn’t mean it hasn’t needed maintenance though. Fortunately, the current owner recently had some things done that would probably be neglected if the circumstances were a bit different. The car received four brand new tires and new hood struts. Similarly, the cabin air filter and engine air filter were replaced.
This LS 400 also stands apart from others in that it includes some niceties that came with the car when it was new. First up is the original first aid kit, which is still sealed. Although a lot of the things inside it might have expired, it’s still pretty cool it’s there. Secondly, the car comes with the Lexus branded tool kit. Better yet, it’s not missing any of them! These collectibles aren’t essential. But they’re further proof that the original owner, who possessed the car until December 2019, really cared about the Lexus.
If you’re interested in owning this important piece of Lexus history, you’re in luck. Bidding doesn’t end until July 20. As of this writing, 4 bids have been placed and the price stands at $4,000. But that’s bound to increase significantly. As with the case of many other listings on Cars & Bids, the seller has appeared on the LS 400’s page to answer questions. Additionally, there is more information about the car there too. There are also an amazing number of pictures as well. Even if you’re not in the market for this amazing car, be sure to check them out.
Photos: Cars & Bids
