TomKog

Hi, I am thinking about buying a RX. It would be our car in Florida when we are there two to three times per year (always 4-6 weeks). What would you say which one is the better car and which problems are typical ?
Thanks Tom

salimshah

The newer model will have more features. Would the old model have more miles? In used market, the history of vehicle is lot more important than features and odo reading.

I personally like the shape, seats, switches of first gen over the second. Improvements in the engine/transmission are strong reasons to consider 2nd gen.

Salim,

TomKog

Hi and thanks, my thoughts are about the qualitiy because the newer ones have more features and sometimes the first models have some "children illnesss" ?

salimshah

History of maintenance outweighs what you are talking about.
The quality issue is a mixed bag. Newer models bring new features as well as they try to address the issues and the drive to bring down build cost thus making it a multidimensional issue.

My suggestion would be [maintenance and milage being equal]
Personal preference
Choose the newer model .. [keep in mind the newer model is still an old vehicle ... 2nd gen is almost a decade old model]

Salim

jimbug

I agree that the vehicle's service history is the most important thing here. The insurance cost would be cheaper I believe on the oldest model, and I wouldn't hesitate to purchase a 2001-2003 model RX300. I bought one three years ago and it has been a really dependable, luxurious vehicle.

Check with your insurance agent on the difference between a 2002 RX300 vs a 2005 RX330 or 2006 RX350. It might be a significant cost difference over time as you won't be driving enough for there to be much delta between either model.

Good luck!

Lexmus

One drawback to the RX300 is the turning radius. It is definitely the largest of any vehicle I have owned, vans included.

Turning circle (ft.):
RX300 41.4
RX330 37.4