View Poll Results: Which design is better 2003 ls or 2004 ls
2003 LS430
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36
13.74%
2004 LS430
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226
86.26%
Voters: 262. You may not vote on this poll
2003 Lexus LS430 vs. 2004 Lexus LS430
#5
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Having now seen 2 of the '04 models, I definitely think the styling has improved, and the 18" sport package wheels are the best looking ever on an LS. BUT - a full spec '04 car at sticker is going to be $75K and the local L.A. dealers are selling new '03 base cars at their invoice of $50K. It's hard to justify spending a full one-third more for the '04 car when the core of both cars is essentially the same. Any thoughts?
#6
Lexus Champion
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I think you just compare the price of a base 03 LS with a 04 Ultra Luxury LS. If you compare the UL to UL, then the price won't be 1/3 more.
For the 04 UL get Nav, ML, Laser cruise, Park Assist, bluetooth technology, Smart Key and a 6 speed transmission with E-shift that allow you to manaully shift from 1st to 6th. I drove a couple of them on the Pre Delivery Inspection, in this case inspect the LS before the Grand Opening for my dealership so they can put them on the showroom. I have to said' I love it', and they did a good job on this one.
For the 04 UL get Nav, ML, Laser cruise, Park Assist, bluetooth technology, Smart Key and a 6 speed transmission with E-shift that allow you to manaully shift from 1st to 6th. I drove a couple of them on the Pre Delivery Inspection, in this case inspect the LS before the Grand Opening for my dealership so they can put them on the showroom. I have to said' I love it', and they did a good job on this one.
#7
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VVT-i's comment is well taken; it's unfair to directly compare a base '03 to a UL '04, but it will be a year before we can get a "deal" on an '04 and the invoice cars for '03 still represent a significant savings.
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#8
Driver School Candidate
Join Date: Jan 2004
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It's obvious which one I prefer.
Regarding headlights, I've had a number of folks fascinated by the automated aiming of the articulated headlights on the '04 when you first start it (in low-light conditions, obviously). People aren't used to seeing headlights move unless they're Tucker fans. LOL
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#10
Driver School Candidate
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There's no contest. The difference between the 6 speed transmission and the 5 speed tranmission is huge, enough that I simply wouldn't buy the 2003 model.
#11
Instructor
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I guess 2004 is supposed to look more sporty than 2003. In addition, the rear view camera, updated nav, 18" wheels, and other upgrades make the 2004 the obvious choice imo.
#12
Lexus Test Driver
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I feel the 2004 is the better looking of the 2. I also belive that the average person who doesnt own a LS or is into cars wont notice the changes. But i do belive the 2004 LS 430 has a sharper look to it, the 18" inch wheels are long overdue and the headlights and tailights are much improved. I own the 2001 LS430 by the way and am happy with the 5 speed. I cant imagine what a 6 speed would drive like. The 2003 models come with alot also so dont trade in 2003 owners. Still the LS 430 is great no matter what changes are made. Do you guys pep how they make changes little by little, i feel it is just a trap to get us to trade up for something like headlights,or back-up camera, lets not fall for it fellow Lexus buyers.I know what your thinking there is also bluetooth and those great headlights that turn as you turn the corners of city and country roads. Your right these are great things to pass up so if you like them cool purchase the 2004 model. But remember they will add another feature in 2005 probably a deep fryer. Haha haha.
#13
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Design-wise, the 2004 is more true to the original 1989 2-exposed rear exhaust chambers.
The hoodlines of the 2004 is pronounced (for lower Cd?) not sure for the 2001-03 models.
The hoodlines of the 2004 is pronounced (for lower Cd?) not sure for the 2001-03 models.
#14
Lead Lap
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Originally posted by usermel
I feel the 2004 is the better looking of the 2. I also belive that the average person who doesnt own a LS or is into cars wont notice the changes. But i do belive the 2004 LS 430 has a sharper look to it, the 18" inch wheels are long overdue and the headlights and tailights are much improved. I own the 2001 LS430 by the way and am happy with the 5 speed. I cant imagine what a 6 speed would drive like. The 2003 models come with alot also so dont trade in 2003 owners. Still the LS 430 is great no matter what changes are made. Do you guys pep how they make changes little by little, i feel it is just a trap to get us to trade up for something like headlights,or back-up camera, lets not fall for it fellow Lexus buyers.I know what your thinking there is also bluetooth and those great headlights that turn as you turn the corners of city and country roads. Your right these are great things to pass up so if you like them cool purchase the 2004 model. But remember they will add another feature in 2005 probably a deep fryer. Haha haha.
I feel the 2004 is the better looking of the 2. I also belive that the average person who doesnt own a LS or is into cars wont notice the changes. But i do belive the 2004 LS 430 has a sharper look to it, the 18" inch wheels are long overdue and the headlights and tailights are much improved. I own the 2001 LS430 by the way and am happy with the 5 speed. I cant imagine what a 6 speed would drive like. The 2003 models come with alot also so dont trade in 2003 owners. Still the LS 430 is great no matter what changes are made. Do you guys pep how they make changes little by little, i feel it is just a trap to get us to trade up for something like headlights,or back-up camera, lets not fall for it fellow Lexus buyers.I know what your thinking there is also bluetooth and those great headlights that turn as you turn the corners of city and country roads. Your right these are great things to pass up so if you like them cool purchase the 2004 model. But remember they will add another feature in 2005 probably a deep fryer. Haha haha.