Diesel11

I recently posted on the GS forum, but would like to hear people's thoughts on LS430 2001-2004. I have a 2004 GS 300 and I love it, but for size and other reasons, I think I want to upgrade to the LS430. I likely will look at a 2001.

Questions:
1. What is the price range I can expect for a 2001 (base model)?
2. Should I think about a 2004?
3. My car had $8000 of body damage from a deer accident, but had excellent body work done....any thoughts on trade-in value (10,000 miles).
4. Am I crazy for thinking about a LS when I just bought a 2004 GS300?
Thanks in advance

Fred

unrealii

1) When my dad bought his 02 ls 3 months ago, he was mainly looking at 01's. We found many in the $30k range. However he wanted navi so that bumped the price up. We ended buying an 02 with all the options below for $40k with 45k miles on it.

2) Dont know. For the price of the 02, my family is very happy with it.

3) It shouldn't affect trade in value that much unless the car has a salvaged title or if it is obvious that the car has been repaired like non-matching paint, fit an finish issues, etc.

4) It wont be a wise investment since your car just took a big hit on depreciation when you drove it off the lot. However when I was riding around in the saleman's gs to go to the car lot to look at ls's I wasn't happy with the interior room either.

usermel

I feel you should stay in your GS300 until the new LS430 and the new GS models come out. Trading up is not a good business decision. I deal with cars all the time and trust dealers always make a profit no matter what kind of deal you get. The first 2-3 years of a new car is when the value drops the most. Let at least the depreciation go down before trading. If you can't wait, get what ever you feel you really wan't. Car purchases are almost always emotional when were buying for ourselves, so if you wan't the 2004 get it. You don't wan't to make payments or cash out on something you really don't wan't. As far as price, if your firm and research the model you wan't, you can talk a good deal on the LS430 from the years 2001-2003. Being they changed it a bit, deals are more likely on the 2001- 2003 models. I'd suggest checking states you don't mind driving to for a used model, i got my best deal on a car out of state. Even just outside of your metro area might be enough to get a better deal. I owned a few GS', loved them all. The biggest difference i notice is interior room. The luxury is obvious the LS400/430 is a luxury sedan only. The GS models are sport/luxury sedans leaning more toward sport. Price wise for a base model, look to pay between $34,000- $39,000 for base model with good miles on it. Lets say between 30,000 and 50,000 miles. I love business and can say this much, everything is negotiable when dealing with business. Do your research on the car you want before you go to any dealer and stick with what you want. Don't allow the salesman to change your mind for you. Stay in the position of power. Therefore research ultra luxury prices, navigation prices, navigation/mark levinson prices and all types of packages the LS has. You might be surprised how much the car goes for in different regions of the country. Good shopping and furthermore be quick but don't hurry your decision. Remember you already have a car you don't need one, be patient and buy what makes YOU most comfortable. Remember the salesman is not your friend, just your salesman. When your birthday comes you may get a card from the salesman and or dealership. You won't be getting a flat sreen TV though. GODBLESS. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME. AND GOD IS ALWAYS ON TIME. WAIT ON HIM.