Prospective New Owner

[wsurfa]

I'm in the market for a LS400 but only have about 5k to spend. I've seen a few in the 4.5-5.5 range in autotrader etc, is this a reasonable level for higher mileage early models or is it likely to produce a bit of a dog?

I'm aware of the needs of a fsh and realise servicing won't be cheap - my current car is a 400bhp Skyline GTR - which is going to feed the mortgage :( .

Are there any major things to look for?

Thanks for any help you guys can give.

regards

Iain

[L3X JG]

Regardless of the age if an ls400 is looked after it will run forever fsh is important although if the car is the right price then a full pro inspection my be called for all though i would recomend that on any car you decide to get.

also check up on the milage as it very easy to tamper with on the LS

89-92/93 mrk1

93-95 mrk2

95-98 mrk3

98-2000 mrk4

I have seen some mrk2 at around £3500.00 but they are far & far between.

[wsurfa]

thanks for the info re mileage and versions

Iain

[Paulrwales]

Hello

My parents have just paid £5200 for a L reg 1993 LS400, i don't think it was bad value, its done exactly 100,000 miles with full Lexus SH.

My dad took me out for a drive in the car last night and i can't believe how silent they are. Too me, first look at the LS they don't look quick. I was shocked at the horrendous take-off type acceleration- we were just used to a Mercedes E300 diesel. I love the gadgets, they're great. I am most impressed with the audio.

No doubt we will be shocked at the economy, but hey the Lexus wins hands down for comfort compared to the Mercedes- the 'heated' seats are just perfect.

I think i have heard a few points mentioned about the digital clock so check that out, I don't know alot else but the others here may help.

[JMRussell]

If you are after a big luxury saloon with a good reliability record look no further. Compared with some other big luxury saloons at about 10 years old they start looking a bit dearer compared with some of their competitors such as Jags and Mercs but at that era Lexus were streets aheads in standard spec. Servicing like all cars of this ilk is vital but most owners if they can afford the car in the first place have it done to the book. Running costs I think are pretty good for a car of this class and repairs are rare. At over 7 years old you wont be able to get the full Lexus warranty.

It depends how you drive but on my Mk4 I average about 24.5mpg going upto 30 on a motorway run but dropping to low 20's around town. The big service is at 63,000 (cam belt and plugs etc) which will set you back about £600 at a dealer. brake pads last me about 20-30k on the front and 30-35 on the rear. Tyres last about the same - using the recommended Dunlops.

The biggest problem is if you buy one you'll soon be wanting a later model - ooh for a 430!