GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Thinking of Buying Lexus GS : Please Help

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Old 07-16-04 | 12:51 PM
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Default Thinking of Buying Lexus GS : Please Help

I am very interested in purchasing a Lexus GS model. Probably in the 99-01 year. What should I expect paying for something like this. Can you give me some pros and cons about this vehicle. Also, I am in the Myrtle Beach, SC area....so if there is anyone selling one in that area, please let me know. Thanks guys!
Old 07-16-04 | 01:09 PM
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im seeing alot of these threads popping up

how many miles

what color
which model

what options

certified or not
Old 07-16-04 | 01:22 PM
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Welcome aboard. The best way to answer your questions is to ask you to spend a few nights perusing through this forum. You'll learn so much, much, much more by reading a bunch of previous posts, than by waiting for a few brief answers. The GS is a wonderful car and all these forum members are devoted to it. I was very influenced in my recent purchase (2001 GS430, CPO, $30.5K w/42K miles) by this encyclopedic knowledge base. Good luck with your purchase, welcome, and enjoy perusing through the old posts.
Old 07-16-04 | 02:16 PM
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I would like something with less then 70,000 miles. I prefer the color white. Any of the GS models are fine with me, but of course I would like the best. Any idea on a price range for something like this, and do u know of any around my area or anyone on this board selling?
Old 07-16-04 | 02:58 PM
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Default Your best choice...

Easily the best GS is the '00 Crystal White GS400!
Only negative to this car is the "mod fever" that is incurable and can cost a lot of $$$$.

Seriously though-Welcome to CL and I agree with JellyBean-spend some time searching and reading the posts. I did it for 6 months or so before I bought mine and I have no regrets at all!
I can give you a couple of things to think about though:
1. Do you want a GS4 or GS3? I assume you know the difference...
2. Do you want (or care) if the car has Navigation?
3. My car has E-shift and I love it. Some years and models had it, some don't. Is it something you want on yours?
4. If you have a chance, drive both the GS3 and GS4 (maybe you've done this?), check out the Nav etc. and ask some more questions.

No car is perfect (although the GS4 comes close IMO ) as I'm sure you know, but the negatives on this car are so insignificant to me that I don't even care.
The biggest need for this car is in the suspension area-but this is easily addressed and is part of the enjoyment of modding the car anyway! Again, this is just my opinion, but one shared by many I think.
I'm sure others can chime in with some things I've overlooked. Good luck with your purchase!
Old 07-16-04 | 06:15 PM
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What is the difference between the GS3 and GS4? Sorry, i dont know.

I dont care about a NAV system, but it would be nice. Are they really beneficial?

E-shift doesnt matter.

Ive seen some 98,99 GS3's in the $18s with some decent mileage (70K). Is that too good to be true ?
Old 07-16-04 | 06:21 PM
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Originally posted by jrzyboy24
What is the difference between the GS3 and GS4? Sorry, i dont know.
GS3 has an inline-6 (2JZ-GE) and the GS4 has a V8.
Old 07-16-04 | 08:17 PM
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J.D. Power and the Consumer Report has rated the GS300/GS430 as the best luxury car in its class.


I recently bought the 2004 GS300. It is such a smooth and quiet car.

Lexus has been the #1 selling luxury car company in the U.S.
And the GS300/GS430 is the perfect example as to why it is the best.

Good luck with your purchase.

-Donald
Old 07-17-04 | 09:41 AM
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is the NAV system really that important? What do u guys think? And in regards to the inline 6 and V8, is therea considerable amount of noticeable power in the V8. How much horsepower do these put out?
Old 07-17-04 | 02:21 PM
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You need to go out and test drive both. In my opinion, the I-6 whines when floored, the V8 plants you effortlessly in your seat. If you have the spare cash, go with the GS430. The navigation is nice, but only if you purchase the 01 model or later. the 2000 and earlier was CD based and not as good.

Good luck!
Old 07-18-04 | 07:39 PM
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Originally posted by Jayson
You need to go out and test drive both. In my opinion, the I-6 whines when floored, the V8 plants you effortlessly in your seat. If you have the spare cash, go with the GS430. The navigation is nice, but only if you purchase the 01 model or later. the 2000 and earlier was CD based and not as good.

Good luck!
I agree with Jayson

You need to test drive both cars.

I test drove both the GS300 and GS430. The GS430 does have that extra boost of power.
So like Jayson has said, if you have the extra money, go for the GS430.

The Navigation is a very helpful tool. I travel a lot in the weekends and the navigation makes my trips so much easier and enjoyable.

-Donald
Old 07-20-04 | 07:35 AM
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I would get the GS4 with Nav, I will never buy another car without Factory HID's. If you could find one with upgraded suspension and brakes would be a big plus. Are you willing to purchase performance tires more frequently than stock OEM 16's?

I have a 2nd gen stock GS3 and I won't challenge a Camry. I would get the GS4 if I were you. I love the GS3 for a daily driver. I don't really think it was made to out perform many cars in it's class. Another question to ask yourself, are you big on performance? I would get the GS4 regardless just my 2 cents.

Great cars, I'm glad I picked this one. I choose a CPO GS3 over a brand new Nissan Altima 3.5 SE. I'm glad I made that choice.
Old 07-20-04 | 10:05 AM
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If you have any interest whatsoever in accelaration you must get the GS400/430!
The 400/430 is not just slightly quicker than the 300 but significantly faster.

The 400/430 also comes with better wheels, spoiler, ect.

While I have and SC right now, I'm planning on getting a GS in a couple of years.
It will undoubtably have 8 cylinders under the hood!
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