TREDLOVER

Hi everyone, I'm new to the forum, so please excuse me if I'm posting about previously discussed topics! I've owned a 2001 IS200 for a number of years, and absolutely adored her. She wanted for nothing. But I always fancied the IS300, mainly because of a nostalgic memory of the J2Z in the first F&F movie (i know, I know!) Anyway, i recently part ex'd her for an 04 IS300 LE. 2 Owners, FSH, confirmed 40K. I dont do a massive amount of miles, and tend to keep my cars for a while, so I figured a few subtle mods here n there might be ok. In an ideal world, I'd do the J2Z GTE transplant...but, I cant bring myself to spend three times the purchase price of the car on that! Are there any 'non-turbo' simple mods I can do to spice her up a bit? I'm not expecting miracles, just a bit more poke! I must confess, I dont know one end of a spanner from the other when it comes to auto repair, so I would have to take her somewhere to be done. ( I've also just put her on 18" RX-7 rims as the standard ones just looked a little small) All suggestions welcome!

Hi folks, I'm a newbie to the Lexus brand (formerly a BWM owner) and recently purchased a 2002 IS 200 SE Auto. I have to say....I adore it already! Only 2 former keepers, 52k with full Lexus history - a steal at a touch over £2000! Only thing letting her down were her rims..what I assume are standard SE 17" five spokes. They are badly corroded and losing air, but after winter is gone, I will have them refurbed. However, in the meantime,I have aquired some toyota 18" seven spokes in pretty good nick, and after reading some articles on here, found they would fit. On the advice of my local tyre agent, I was supplied with 245 40 18 on all four corners. Looked good and drove well....until I had a passenger or shopping in the boot! Rubbing city!! I've been back today and had them replaced...now running 225 40 18's on all corners. No rubbing whatsoever, but the noise is noticeably louder (particularly on smooth tarmac), and steering seems a lot more sensitive. Does anyone know if these are the right size? And should I expect this added noise from a lower profile tyre? Sorry if these sound like daft questions, but the only cars I've mauled the wheels on were 7 series BMW's? I've also tried to find threads on here, but cant find the exact same situation. Thanks in advance guys. :-)