meh789

The title states everything quite well; I'm looking at a 1999 GS400 with 65,000 miles and have a few questions: how would you compare the GS400 to in LS400 in terms of reliability and maintenance costs? I see much fewer posts of people with problems in the GS forums than I do in the LS forums - though are differences in age of vehicles in the forums, I'm hoping some of you seasoned Lexus pros around here could give me some input

Also; I can't really find much of a review of the standard audio system that comes in a '99 GS400... A good stock audio system is important to me as I am not the type of person that likes to add after market equipment. What I like is good bass (yes, I'm young), imaging and the ability to go from music to talk radio without having to readjust the equalizer to make the speech intelligible (this was a problem I had with a couple different vehicles I've owned).

My driving style is quite conservative and I realize that this is considered a sports car, but I'm not very interested in it's performance abilities... I originally sought after an LS400; but I just can't find 97+ with low mileage. So I'm hoping the GS can satisfy my needs for comfort and reliability.


To sum up what I'm looking for:
1. Reliable
2. Quiet and smooth
3. Working and long lasting AC
4. Good stereo (Can go without, but preferred)

I also reread what I have typed and I realize that I'm quite the pick SOB

deejay

iTrader: (2)

If you have got the time, you should wait for that LS to come around. You may regret settling for something else.

It took me six months to find my car. It HAD to be blk/blk w/ low mileage.

deejay

iTrader: (2)

....and if you do go the GS route, and don't care about performance, the GS300 is more practical for you.

meh789

Thanks for the advice, however, I actually don't have the time... Its my summer break and I can't get out and begin to enjoy it because I have a dilapidated old 91 Cavalier that leaks rain water in, is loud as hell because the exhaust is broke and could be out run by donkey.

With that being said, I'm sure even a Camry would be a treat! What would ultimately decide if I chose between an LS and a GS would be the reliability and cost of maintenance. While I prefer an LS, I would take a GS instead if it were cheaper to maintain. Also what is available to buy in my area with the least amount of miles is a factor as well: right now its a GS400.

So hows the sound system on these cars?

Scott1258

They are both great cars. FYI - they sport the same engine - so reliability on the engine is the exact same. The LS is more luxury and has a more lux ride. The GS is not very sporty in stock form and has a floaty feel to it with stock suspension. Both would be a great car ... test drive both and then decide what you really like. My 2 cents.

evil00017

The LS and GS are both reliable, quiet and smooth and good working AC. The stock sound system in a GS is the pioneer. Its pretty decent for not being the upgraded version. It comes with a 10 inch sub so it has a bit of bass. I personally would like a little more bass than what the stock 10 inch sub is puting out so you could always swap that out later down the road.