e-man

Guys -- I'm sure this issue has been discussed to death. I know the basic differences between the two cars. I'm just looking for real world opinions from those of you who considered both, decided on one or the other, and the reasons why.

I am looking at two specific cars -- same color combination and both in excellent condition:

(1) 06 GS430 with 40,000 miles asking $26k
(2) 08 GS460 with 30,000 miles asking $35k

Assuming I can negotiate both prices down by the same amount, that's still a $9k difference between the 2 cars. All else being equal, is it worth the extra $9k?

Thanks for your help.

e

GS350Lexus

iTrader: (5)

Well one has warranty vs other one doesn't. Honestly if you a willing to drop that kind of money why not get a GS450h? A car with warranty cost about 4-5k more.

masboy

iTrader: (30)

if u have the money, i believe it's well worth it !

2 yrs different, different nav, some 06 have annoying interior sounds over the bump, beside GS450h is the way to go w/ the engine & gas.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

hey e, time to consider 3gs huh? imho if you can swing the money, 08 gs460 is better

- better nav
- better leather
- facelift changes
- more powerful engine
- lower rpm (8 speed)

dadoody

iTrader: (1)

I have the 2006 GS430 and I regret not waiting a year. Go for the 2008.

2008 has:
More power!
Much better Nav - the screen on the 2006 is still pixelly, while the 2008 is solid and clear.

And to me, most important is that the 2008 is chain driven while the 2006 is belt driven. Not only does that cut down on timing belt replacement at 90k, there is a much lower chance of the chain snapping than the belt snapping and ruining your engine.

While the 2008 costs more initially, I believe the lower maintenance cost and lower chance of a timing snap along with the better nav system are worth the price differences.

Boron

Bear in mind, the 06 car came well loaded (if the same is true as the UK/Europe), but the facelifted 08 models were de-spec'd, with more "options" to select.
How long do you plan on keeping the car for?
The $9K difference now, won't be $9K in a number of years time, but the only thing really needed to focus on is the cost to change.

Personally, I think I'd pocket the $9K, and use it towards running costs and any repairs it may need.
The mileage difference is minimal on an engine designed and capable of doing 250K+

If they're both from a Lexus dealership, then surely an approved used car must include a 12 month warranty?
After all, that's the point of buying from a dealership rather than private or a generic car dealer - but even then you should be able to pick up an independent warranty if you need peace of mind.
Assuming so, just check the terms to see what's covered, and what's not.

tbilisi79

460 is a better car. But don;t forget, the new GS just came out and that means that 460 will keep getting older and older dropping value even faster now.
That 430 is a low mile car, i doubt youd get to the 90k belt change.

Extra 9 grand I would invest into stocks, IRA or 401 K. Depends where you live, you can use that 9k towards a vacation home, ski house, summer house. Id even buy a 99 BMW M3 Convertible as a summer toy with that 9 k.

With that said, in a few years I will probably upgrade to GS460 if I dont go with a LS460.

bigblack06

iTrader: (20)

GS 460 its worth it, more power better tech and has a small facelift if you could talk that would be your best I'd say u may be able to get $1,500-$2,000 off but I dont see them taken anymore.

Slamking18

GS460 for sure if you can cover the extra cost...

e-man

Thanks guys.

Hey Henry. Yeah, it's about time. The car has been great to me, by far the best car I've ever owned, but it's 13 years old with 180k+ miles and it's time for a change. I'll probably trade it in, and they'll give me next to nothing for it, but I've gotten my use out of it, no complaints.

Thanks to everyone for all the info. I thought I knew all the differences, but clearly I didn't. I will probably keep the car for 7+ years (just like my current GS4), so I will easily pass 100k and it would be nice not having to worry about replacing the timing belt. For those of you "old-timers" still around (like Rominl and others), you may remember what happened during my first timing belt change.

I also have the opportunity to buy a 2008 LS460, black/black, with 77,000 miles private party sale, driven by an executive at my company, for around $30k. I just don't know if I'm ready for that car yet, though.

e

masboy

iTrader: (30)

I'd get the LS460 over GS4X0 anyday ! but that's just me, having 2 kids in the back that love kicking my front seat from their car seat >:E LS460 will give more than enough room in the back

L3XOTIC

If money isnt your issue as stated. definitely the 2008 460. Facelift, better NAV/Leather, warranty, power, and so on.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

car itself, ls460 is nicer, however that's quite a lot of miles. i don't worry that much on the drive train, but to be honest i start to worry about the electronics

TWong350

iTrader: (8)

I agree with this. If you could swing it, definitely go for the 08 460.

e-man

Well, the 460 is gone. Sold within a day and close to asking price.

I realize the 430 may not have all the bells and whistles as the 460, but it's pretty close, and it is significantly less money. Also, I put 18,000 miles a year on my car, so for any car I get, I will kill it with miles and it will depreciate quickly. Seems like the smarter financial decision would be to go for an older (06 GS430) or higher mile (08 LS460) car.