Crios22

I'm looking at a 2013 Lexus GS350 AWD base model with around 80k miles for 19,500. I'm also considering a 2014 IS350 AWD with around 120k miles for the same price. The IS350 has the F-Sport package. I've also noticed the IS model has almost 2.5 inches more leg room in the front. I'm a tall guy at 6'4" so that 2.5 inches might go a long way towards comfort on a long trip. Also is it accurate that the IS350 Fsport has an 8 speed transmission and the GS350 has a 6?


Obviously my only concern with the IS350 is that it has 40k more miles on it. You ladies and gents have any arguments for or against either car based on the knowledge I've given you? Both are really clean and if the IS350 had 80k miles like the GS I would about 80% prefer it. It will be mostly used for traveling to kids ball games. I won't need a ton of trunk space or anything (we have a Sequoia for that) but I want something comfortable and reliable but just a little fun to own for 43 year old dad. :-D

Benoit

Not a lot of experiences with the 350's, because they aren't sold in Switzerland. They never where.
But we had the previous generation GS's and IS's.
I'm 6.3".
The GS didn't had any space problem for my legs, and my abnormally longer upper part of the body managed to take place easily in the GS.
The IS was great too. But I lost the place behind me for a passenger, and I couldn't use the left armrest, because the seat position was on the B pillar of the car. Whatever, the IS was, and always is, the more agile one on small roads, due to less dimensions and weight. It is probably even better now with the 2021 dynamic package.
If you want space, go for the GS, but if you rank the dynamic capacities further up, you will probably prefer the IS.
Please note than the GS didn't had reclining backseats on my tested version, what, for me, is a minus point for transporting large goods.

Crios22

Thank you for the observations Benoit!

SW17LS

Given the two vehicles at hand, I would get the GS no question. Better, bigger car, lower miles. No brainer.

Och

iTrader: (3)

The GS is always a great all around car.

SC300Es

+1 for the GS,

On a side note, some people prefer the 6 speed in the GS AWD over the 8 speed models.

patgilm

No brainer for me, GS all the way just based size and mileage. Also, I believe the IS350 AWD has the 6 speed, not the 8 speed transmission. The 8 speed is only on the RWD version.

Crios22

You all made that easy lol! Ok so another question about the GS350. How's the aftermarket support for when my mid-life crisis hits? What's the selection on aftermarket power adders like headers/intake and body upgrades like carbon fiber hoods? I seem to have only found an OEM version at the moment for around 1300 bucks shipped. Does Lexus have a go to supplier for aftermarket support or a go to online store?

SW17LS

Aftermarket support isn't great for any Lexus, but its way better for the GS than it is for the ES.

EZZ

Who mods an ES? Haha. I read that the average age of an ES owner is over 60. I don't know if that demographic cares about mods.

Crios22

Load 'em up then cause the GILF came to race!

AJLex19

The lower mileage GS is the obvious choice - the 13 GS is a better car overall...fit, finish and suits the mid sized sport sedan name. Here's a great thread on the IS vs the GS with folks that have owned both and have some great tips about each: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...an-the-is.html

In terms aftermarket support, you should take a look at the 4GS forum as there are lots of members with some very unique modifications and vendors like ModInJapan, Meraki Autoworks, Top End Motorsports, etc. are very helpful in getting quality aftermarket goodies. Here are some helpful threads to start:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...ket-parts.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...ispreloading=1

RR-Racing makes $$$ supercharger kit/tune as well:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-...s350-tune.html
https://www.rr-racing.com/RR-Racing-...grxscr1002.htm

Crios22

Thank you much Alex, I'm going to check all of those out!

sivikvtec

Both have the same crappy engine and infotainment system. I’d go with the GS.

I’ve had my 2013 GS350 base since 2015, it’s fine for what it is. Probably one of the best quality Lexus models made since the LS430.

703

Had a GS450h, you won’t have problem with space in the front. It’s plenty.

make sure it has full service history from Lexus or an independent that follows the Lexus schedule.