indigo6

Update. I went and saw the Lexus dealer last week and they told me I couldn't test drive because it wasn't done with inspection yet. The salesperson was supposed to call me when it was ready to drive. Today I was informed it was sold. I'm disappointed. I drove the one at Toyota and was not impressed with the sport suspension. Not particularly firm but a bit more jarring. The search continues. I can't think of any other cars in the $15k range with this level of refinement and reliability. Any other suggestions? Maybe a newer ES?

warminwisc

What tires where on the sport? I definitely hardly noticed the difference with Michelin tires on both I test drove. I did not notice a jarring difference.

indigo6

Bridgestone potenzas. Definitely not a touring tire. That could be responsible for it.

TriC

Hmmm, those Bridgestones are on my standard suspension 2006 LS and the ride is as smooth as can be given that they are 45 series tires.

caverman

For the $15k range you can look at a '07 or '08 LS460 with about 100k or so miles.They have a couple issues to look out for but I would definitely at least look at that as an option.

BMW7_LS430

+1

OP, Look at this one

2008 Lexus LS 460 L

93K miles
Internet Price: $12,995
https://www.lamesapreowned.com/vehic...3706ab3d45c5b4

plex

iTrader: (11)

Wow didn't realize the prices were at this price point for the 460's.

Bob04

Carfax says it was wrecked with structural damage.

BMW7_LS430

Yeah, sounded too good to be true.

caverman

Still there are LS460 out there in good condition for $15k and by the end of the year I think even more so once the LS500 starts to really hit the streets.

indigo6

I'm not a fan of the 460's personally. The ride and reliability of the 430 appeals to me more.

Now the choice for me is, do I spend about $2k on restoring the suspension in my '98 ES300 to OEM spec and have no car payment? Or buy an '06 LS430 and have a (albeit small) payment for 36 months. I also have a BMW that has to go no matter what I do.

indigo6

I was thinking of downsizing to the 2002 LS430's 16 inch wheels with either Michelin Premier A/S or Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus. It would be the ultimate plush ride!