Opinions! BMW to Lexus SC
12-10-11, 04:35 AM
#16
This is an easy call. Your going from a car that you know every last detail about, how its been driven, whats been changed and is stick, to a car that you dont know how its been driven, what problems your going to face, dont know much about the 2JZ motors and has most likely been driven like a horse. Also the car is a 92 compared to your 00 and its an automatic.
Your car even looks better compared to his and its a 540 we talkin, not a 528. This is a complete steal for him. I love SC's but this is an unbiased opinion. If anything, ask for a couple grand on top with his car if you really really want it.
Your car even looks better compared to his and its a 540 we talkin, not a 528. This is a complete steal for him. I love SC's but this is an unbiased opinion. If anything, ask for a couple grand on top with his car if you really really want it.
12-10-11, 05:00 AM
#17
I would keep your BMW. Most guys I see with aftermarket turbos have all sorts of issues. Also, if the SC has the factory automatic transmission, it won't be able to hold that much power for long. However, if it was swapped to a Supra TT's automatic transmission, you should be fine.
12-10-11, 05:48 AM
#18
Lol, I sold my 2001 540 6 speed and started my sc gte project. It was a love/hate relationship with my Beamer. Cooling system problems, timing chain issues, ccv valve problems. It was the best driving car but gave me nightmares from all of the crap breaking and little electrical glitches. I'd go for the sc and covert it to a 5 or 6 speed. Even if it has been beat it will probably be more reliable than that 540. Your 540 is probably worth around 6k and I would assume the sc would be worth at least 7k depending on mods. I got 10k for my 540 with 90k, 20 inch beyerns, and it was immaculate. People would look at it and pick apart the dumbest stuff like creases in the drivers seat. Sc FTW!
12-10-11, 07:34 AM
#19
1JZ Single SC400
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I have a 3 series that I love to drive as well as my SC. Both have been great cars even with maintenace. I say its a win, win situation, regardless of your choice. If you want something new then trade, if not don't give it up. The choice is yours.
12-10-11, 08:00 AM
#20
I see it's the same over here on CL -- the other guy "beats up" his modded car whereas we would carefully drive our custom creations. Everybody demands a clean slate so they can go do what the other guy has already done.
I would hope that anyone who does a swap like this could be counted on to change their oil, check other fluids, and do regular maintenance moreso than the average owner. A modded car should be in better shape 99% of the time. WOT is a valid operating condition of an engine and does not constitute abuse.
It's been the same situation on every car forum I've ever been on. "Noooo, don't buy the modded vehicle. Wait for a pristine example and thrash it yourself!" You can tell when a project wasn't done properly. If it's held together with spit and duct tape, walk away! If it was done right, buy and enjoy.
I would hope that anyone who does a swap like this could be counted on to change their oil, check other fluids, and do regular maintenance moreso than the average owner. A modded car should be in better shape 99% of the time. WOT is a valid operating condition of an engine and does not constitute abuse.
It's been the same situation on every car forum I've ever been on. "Noooo, don't buy the modded vehicle. Wait for a pristine example and thrash it yourself!" You can tell when a project wasn't done properly. If it's held together with spit and duct tape, walk away! If it was done right, buy and enjoy.
12-10-11, 08:15 AM
#21
Keeper of the light
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So here is my situation. I am a BMW enthusiast, and am currently in a 2000 540i 6SPD. I had it up for sale and have someone with a 92 SC300 with 2JZ-GTE swap with lots done to it. Pushing 416RWHP. Down side its automatic. 54K miles on it. I am in a 2000 540i with 183k miles but rebuilt motor, and entire cooling system is new, clutch and soo much more all OEM. Its a straight trade. What do you guys think?
The only people who get any use out of a boosted 5 speed live at the track.
12-10-11, 01:16 PM
#23
Driver School Candidate
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Thats the thing you guys didn't know.. is how problematic it has been for me. I do know a bit about 2JZ and what I do know is their solid motors. Like vWpride said, their nice cars but its literally a money pit. And the worst part is most new parts fail too. I know owners who replace valve-cover gaskets ever 2 months. I mean as of now I am replacing a brand NEW radiator cause its leaking. Plus mine is at 183K miles but rebuilt motor. Here is the mod list:
Garrett T67
Boost Logic manifold and 3 inch downpipe
550cc injectors
Stock Supra Denso fuel pump 315 LPH
AEM F/IC (fuel / ignition controller)
Stock Supra TT suspension
Full MKIV drivetrain.
LS400 Brakes front and back
Full 3inch exhaust from down pipe to HKS high power exhaust.
MOMO steering wheel.
Garrett T67
Boost Logic manifold and 3 inch downpipe
550cc injectors
Stock Supra Denso fuel pump 315 LPH
AEM F/IC (fuel / ignition controller)
Stock Supra TT suspension
Full MKIV drivetrain.
LS400 Brakes front and back
Full 3inch exhaust from down pipe to HKS high power exhaust.
MOMO steering wheel.
12-10-11, 04:38 PM
#28
I should have added that if you get it, ditch that air filter ASAP. Foam mushroom filters are the worst ever made. You've got plenty of room there for a large cotton cone filter.