beachfront

Hi and thanks in advance. We are lookingfor a new car for my wife and it seems like I keep coming across more questions about my car during our research....Nothing negative, just things I am learning or have taken for granted I guess....

On to my questions, and yes I have read as much as I could find on the site:

Looking at the 350 vs. my 430, can somewone take the time to help me understand the following:

1.
THe 430 has a 4.3 liter V8 but produces less horsepower than the 350?

2.
Why is torque important when comparing these 2 cars yet the performance is virtually identical based on what I have read (this includes 0-60, quarter miles, and passing times)?

3.
When would more torque become an advantage to the 430?

I love my car and got a smoking deal (41k with 1800 miles & loaded/nav/ml/etc..) which to me justified the price of a preowned 430 over a new 350 but I have always wondered about the above.

THanks for any help and input.

flipside909

1. - The 3UZ-FE 4.3L V8 is an older outgoing engine with VVT-i and has been around since 2001 in the GS model. The 2GR-FSE 3.5L V6 in the 350 is a very new engine that was first used with the 06 IS350, with the latest technological advances. i.e. Dual VVT-i & Direct Injection.


2. - Both vehicle perform almost identical. They both have different power and torque characteristics. Where one has low end torque the other has high revving power. The 2GR-FSE is a newly advanced motor Toyota has developed which is both fuel efficient and powerful at the same time.

3. - Torque is advantageous from a standstill start or even midrange freeway passing, this is a highlight of the GS430. Although the 350 engine is no slouch in midrange power, the proper gearing keeps both cars planted in their rightful sweet spot.


Regardless, you got a great deal. Don't think your 430 is a step down considering the 350 is now available. The sound of a V8, there's nothing like it. Enjoy it.

beachfront

Thanks for the info...

It was cool to hear the service tech at the dealer say he really likes the sound of the 430 when I took it in this week.

Definatley dont feel its a step down, it just gets confusing .

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