Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

I noticed the two are running about the same price. I definitely like much of what the '01+ update introduced, but I'm coming from a 2002 M5 (400hp v8), so not sure if the move to a 225hp V6 would be frustrating. From what I'm seeing, it'll be $2-3k more for the GS430, which would certainly be my ideal.

So what are your thoughts between the two cars, GS400 vs GS300 with the revisions? Or do you think it's possible to get a decent GS430 under 6k? I'm not in a massive rush.

Thanks!

DosyBoy

iTrader: (1)

I got my 400 for 6k cash but I put more than that in it with maintenance/parts/upgrades, A Gs400/430 is night and day worlds difference than a 300, if I were u i would opt for the 430 because it has a beefier suspension, coming from an M5 u will not like the 300 at all, no offense guys!!! Lol

Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

How do the three options compare in terms of reliability/maintenance required?

DosyBoy

iTrader: (1)

Their all pretty much equal, engines and trannies are bulletproof, take a $1000 off if timing belt wasn't done, lower ball joints are a common failure and need replaced as well as door lock actuators, but theirs a DIY for the actuators for like $6 a pop...

Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

Any strong arguments for why the GS430 would be worth the $2k-$3k premium over the GS400? I personally much prefer the exterior tweaks, but not $2k-$3k worth.

egs21

All things being equal, get the V8 over the inline 6. The inline 6 is a great motor and is super reliable and easy to mode, but you will notice a difference in power coming from a M5. Frankly, the GS400/430 might seem a bit underpowered compared to what you are used to. If money is an issue and you don't want to spend extra for the V8, the GS300 is a great car. I have one and am very happy with it. Sure the V8 is a little faster, but its not as big a difference as what you may think.

Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

To be fair, my buddy's 2006 V6 honda accord feels quick (244hp), so I don't think I need 400hp to enjoy a car. The real challenge for me is; enjoy the amenities of the 01" GS300, or for the same price, get the power of the GS400 and give up the 'newerness' of the 01+'s. Or, figure out how to justify the extra money for the GS430.

Aside from the obvious power improvement of the V8, what would be everyones conjecture about the above?

DosyBoy

iTrader: (1)

Get a 400 and update the taillights to 01 and put a wood steering wheel in like I did... : )

Lukas99GS

The tail lights, grille, even the shift **** and steering wheel of the 01+ can be bought on eBay new for pretty damn cheap and their all interchangeable, I'm changing to the newer grille and tai lights soon, you could make the gs400 look the same as the newer ones

Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

Well that's encouraging. Are the suspensions notably different?

DosyBoy

iTrader: (1)

Yup that's what I did, but not to look like a 430

FrankT

Same design on both with the '01+ having a few variations in bushings.

I know the '98 300 and 400 are the same in stock form.

RXGS

iTrader: (2)

The suspensions between the 300 and 430 are different, I also think the newer ones had a slightly heavier steering feel than the older 300s and 400s

Ahheck01

iTrader: (2)

So I'm getting her distinct press ion that it probably isn't worth spending much extra at all for the newer GS430 over the GS400. Agreed?
Next step is to figure out what things to look out for to make sure I get a solid example, but I suppose I can do some searching. If anyone would like to offer a high-level summary, it would be much appreciated!

1QWKGS4

iTrader: (3)

The Best Interior is '03'-"05 GS430. The beef-up suspension feels rock solid too. (If you want to leave car stock and daily drive get a GS430) If you want to Mod the car, get the GS400. I have both and loving the difference between the two, one modded and the other smooth stock.. I highly recommend if your going to get a GS, go for a '03 and up GS430..