yngw13

300 vs 330 > whats the big difference?

also

Im looking at either a 02' 04' or 05'

cheaper the older...

What is the best mileage and price to buy any of these models?
I have dwindled it down to this vs buying a new car...
I am currently driving a Accord 01 coupe and a 01 pathfinder...

Let me know if these are even good model years choices...

speedkar9

Go for a 2005 face lifted ES330 with the more powerful 3.3L V6 engine.

The ES300 has the 1MZ-FE 3.0L V6, and the ES330 has the 3MZ-FE 3.3L V6.

Mileage doesn't matter as much with these cars, its just a number on the dash. Look for a vehicle that is well maintained and in good condition.

What brings you from an Accord? Have you considered an 2004+ Acura TL?

yngw13

Ok thanks for the response!
Sufficient enough for me to stick to this choice then...

Yes there are a couple I looked at on CL (probably the worst source for buying) and there are a few that look good on photos as to being kept well maintained just basing it on upholstery and cleanliness. I will probably have to roam the dealers and private sellers just to see the quality vs the price benefits.

I am moving from an Accord (maybe keeping it) because I have a 4 cyl and have on several occasions needed the extra HP to cut people off or just to do entry turns from zero mph.

I have considered the ACURA TL (HONDA) but the styling just pales in comparison to the ES330.
but of course taste is subjective...I feel the Lexus has the edge on luxury (ride/feel/looks)

Thanks again for giving me insight...initially I was gunning for a Ford pickup...but opted for a good daily

brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

I have had both. The ES330 is more powerful and gets slightly better gas mileage. In general, the auto trans is better sorted and is more likely to come with 17" wheels. I just had to go throught this exact decision and opted for the ES330 (2006) and glad I did.

PS-just took a trip to Kansas City. Roung trip mileage 30.5 MPG.

Pretyy awesome and the car is a pleasure to drive.

My car has 130K on the clock.

yngw13

Thanks for your input!
I was initially looking at 10' 11' Camry. Then just recently looked at the Lexus line...also my friend at work drives an 03' 330? And she swears by the quality of it..she drove it from Vegas to Texas then to virginia....no problems..nice to know that this car has elite quality...

brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

One of the best used cars one can buy. Shop for a well cared for example. There are plenty out there.

Good luck!

speedkar9

The ES330 more powerful than a 3rd gen Acura TL? The TL's were initially rated at 270HP....

And the transmission shifts in the ES are its weak point due to DBW throttle lag and transmission programming. I haven't driven a TL though to tell the difference.

When I was looking at ES330 vs TL, it came down to luxury and comfort for me. The TL will handle much more sportier than an ES. While I preferred the interior and exterior styling of the TL, the ride and steering would have been too stiff for my everyday highway commute and grandpa driving style.

ES330 is a great car, and I don't regret ditching my Camry for it. 201,800 km on mine now.

Look for the ES330 (04-06) with the 3.3L V6 for more power, and make sure maintenance (such as timing belt and water-pump) have been performed. Test drive a few in stop-and-go traffic to see if your okay with the transmission programming.

Megafast13

Bro the transmission is garbage in the TL. Look it up.

Hayk

iTrader: (1)

I think only the late 90's/early 2000's had transmission failures. They seemed to have sorted them out with the previous generation (04-07)

rlx101

ES is an economical solution.

RX is more fun. + AWD you get to go off road a bit (camping, fishing etc.)

So depends on your life stlye - for more sterile city life ES, to get out and have fun in the sun so to speak - RX.

brucelee1

iTrader: (2)

The original question was in regard to the ES, not the TL. My reference was in regard to the ES300 vs the ES330. Got it?

I have never owned a newer TL and have no opinion on that car.

Erased

Yes, the transmissions from 99-2003 in the Honda's/Acura's were faulty and bad news. However, I have a 99 TL with 139k with the original tranny. It just recently starting slipping.