After driving my RX for 5 years I'm beginning to itch for something a little smaller, quicker, and nimble. I have always loved the GS's and recently found a 98 GS300 with 70k miles for $10,500. My RX has 74k and Kelly Blue Book has it listed at around $10,000 for a dealer trade in. The car is in fantastic condition, and so is the GS. Basically it would be an even swap in terms of money. My wife doesn't understand why I would trade my car in for a car 2 years older - even though it has fewer miles on it.

Half of me says lets do it and the other half says just stick with what you've got. I've always loved the GS - but the RX has treated me well. I know that if I were to post this in the GS forum everyone would say go for it, while over here I would imagine most will prob say stick with the RX.

I would appreciate any insight you guys could offer, whatever it may be. You guys always have been an invaluable resource and I'd just like to hear what some of you have to say. Thanks.

 

I personally would make the swap. If it really is an even swap, and the GS is in as good condition as your own car, the GS is a better deal. It is worth more, has less miles, and arguably has a better motor and transmission. If I were a betting man and someone asked me which car when bought brand new and all things being equal would last long, I'd put money on the GS. Now, it may not come out that way, but I just think the 2GS in either 300 or 400 form is a better built car than the RX.

By the way, I had a 2004 RX330 that was my wifes car. We sold it, but she really liked that car. I think your wife just really likes the RX and doesn't want you to get rid of it. I also have never owned a GS myself, but always wanted one. Heck, I just sold my 99 LS400 and I'm keeping my eye out for a GS if a good one pops up.

 

Well it all depends on you and your situations. Like if you go on alot of trips, have alot of people in the family, or move alot of suff. Its up to you if you plan to keep it long term. Just consider the factors of having a GS in the future from an RX.

I mean I would love to get a GS, but I go on trips every year so I need the SUV and the trunk space.

If it's for personal use then get the GS.

 

In terms of value, if you RX is estimated at $10K for trade-in, it means that it could have a sticker sale price of at least $13 or even $14K, easy, and you found the GS for $10K PURCHASE price, which means that the trade-in Value would be around $7-8K?

It's really a personal choice, just keep in mind that some times there will be regrets no matter how good or bad of a deal we make.

Is your RX AWD? if so, remember you see snow up there, if not, then you're evened out. I like both cars, but you're moving back in age as well. Again, personal choice but if you ask me, I would keep the RX. I already know her...

 

If there is something you want in life and can afford it, do it.

 

I don't think anyone with a Lexus should be in the predicament of a "budget", at least that's the way it should be or you're walking with borrowed shoes.

Lex is right, that's the way I think, if I can afford it.

 

Consider the fact that you would be exchanging a known vehicle for an unknown one with two more years on it. It's not so often the mileage, but the age of the vehicle that destroys it. Of course there are exceptions, but given the choice, I wouldn't make the exchange for fear of what you might be walking into.

Your sig indicates you also own a newer LS - if that's the case, you would be trading for a second sedan. From my standpoint, I'd rather have a broad selection of cars in the driveway, differently purposed for the assignment at hand. Giving up a small but comfortable hauler for a sportier sedan to complement your larger luxury sedan might make good sense for your needs, but you need to weigh the real uses you have for each vehicle.

Either way, it's a tough choice. Good luck!

 

Does it snow there? GS=RWD

Other than that get the car you want.

 

Also consider that dealer's aren't giving KBB trade in for cars right now - they're giving a couple of thousand less on a $10k car. So you'll end up out of pocket on this one.

 

Having had a '99 GS300 and RX300, I have to say we liked them both a lot. However, even though we had 4 Blizzak snow tires on the GS, there's no comparison between that and the RX for winter driving. Even if your RX is only FWD (not too many of them out there), it will outperform the GS in bad weather. I've gotten to enjoy my daughter's RX a lot, and I like the driving position and relatively small size. I can't remember the GS's fuel economy, but it was probably better than the RX's. I don't think the GS is any shorter than the RX (not sure, though), but it is more nimble as you say. Good luck!