Hey all, I've actually been scanning these threads for a week or so as an opportunity presented itself to me.

My fiance's co-worker is in the middle of a divorce and "liquidating his assets." I suppose he had a few lexuses that he had bought with the intent of restoring, but never got around to.

Anyway, this 2001 GS300 immediately caught my attention.
186,000 miles, AC blows cold. No mechanical issues, thing runs perfectly.

But, the interior is beat to hell. Its hard to look at.. Also, there was clearly a fender bender; the rear bumper looks like it needs to be replaced as well as the left tail light. The beautiful leather interior has been TRASHED by the previous owner. Burn marks, a freakish paint spill, the list goes on. Still, my fiance and I are car enthusiasts, and this would actually be my first vehicle. I figure it would be a great project car, yet I still know fixing the interior is going to be a huge task. On the other hand, I have 2 hound dogs so it's not like I would be able to maintain an immaculate interior anyway.

I basically want to know what you guys think. We originally offered $1500 but after some negotiating settled for $1300. I believe $1300 for any running vehicle is a decent buy, let alone a lex. What do you think. Headache? Great investment? I plan on documenting the tackling of the various issues on this thing. I think there is still a great car underneath all the abuse, just waiting for some TLC in its senior years lol.

Here's some pics, let me know what you think. Also, if you have any tips for ANY thing, please, let me know (good sites for replacement accesories etc).

I can't wait for the car to be home so I can start babying her.






(PAINFUL TO LOOK AT)

 

looks like that driver quarter has been pulled back out and filled. The price isn't too bad for what it is, but definitely a lot of work is needed to get it mint. It just depends on your standard of restoration.

 

You've bought yourself a project. It's going to take lots of time and money. I guess it's good if you're planning on holding on to it for a very long time.

 

I would think that anyone who would treat the interior like that probably didn't take care of the engine either. Like others have said, the price is right, but you'll have to spend a lot more. Before I start on any of the cosmetics, I'd start with the engine i.e. timing belt and tensioner, water pump and thermostat, valve cover gaskets, cam seals, front crank seal, plugs, change all the fluids and the ball joints. If you are mechanically inclined, these will be fairly easy for you to do. You can get it done for a few hundred in parts and tools. If not, your looking at, conservatively, at least a grand and maybe as much as three, depending on who you get to do the work.

 

Thank you all for your replies. A very close family friend is a fantastic mechanic so we pretty much can do all the labour ourselves. I agree that first things first will be to make sure she is up to snuff mechanically. Thank you for the tips on what to look at first. I am a novice when it comes to cars, my fiance is much more knowledgeable. I have always used forums with everything (used to be a huge sneaker collector), so I will be checking in periodically to learn the ropes from you lexus gurus.

Again, thanks, I feel the same way. I know its a bit of a gamble but at such a low price we couldnt resist playing ball.

 

Looks like you have a dent on top of the boot. Almost in the same spot that I have although yours is much bigger.
I bet the rest of the bodywork isn't in any better condition either.

That interior is horrible! Any pics from the front seats?

 

Good price if you're using it as a beater,just get it mechanically sound and refresh the suspension....I think it might cost too much if you're going to bring it back it to mint condition,these are just my opinions.....

 

and i thought i got a good deal. only paid $1500 for mine. gonna bring her back from the dead. def. do all maintence items first. which is hard to do. my mind set is if i had to replace it... upgrade it lol. gl looking forward to seeing the progress

 

Looking on eBay, you could get new (used) seats for the car front and back, for around 500-600$ they look to be in good shape and IMO would make the car look more than 600$ nicer, but you should make sure everything mechanical is in good order first, otherwise there's always the option of having the seats reupholstered by a leather specialist

 

wow good deal it should not be hard to clean everything up

 

What you are going to spend far exceeds that cars worth but good luck to you....

 

1300 is a great deal for any running car!

 

I would agree 1300 for any running car with ac is a deal.especially a gs300

 

not sure why that matters. he didnt buy it to flip

 

Give 'em $500 and a stick of gum.


No, really.