If you were buying a depreciated but safe, reliable, and comfortable daily driver...

"Chairman Kaga" (mike-mckinnon)
08/08/2016 at 13:19 • Filed to: None

Seriously, why would you not get a Lexus? I’ve been struggling with this question for the better part of a year now. I’ve brought home for extended test drives everything from a 2006 V70R to a 2009 Maxima SV to a 2012 Mazda6 V6 to a 2008 TL Type-S to a 2006 525i to a 2014 Focus ST. Tried them all, and then some. Lower spec versions of the same cars, higher spec versions, newer versions, older versions.

The problem is, this would be a car I’d !!!error: Indecipherable SUB-paragraph formatting!!! . There’s little to no fun to be had behind the wheel. No using the sporting personality of whatever machine I’m operating. For all practical purposes, there’s no difference between driving a 1983 Rabbit Diesel or a 2016 M2.

EXCEPT for the comfort and the peace of mind that comes with driving a new reliable car that has working AC and a great stereo that truly brings out the subtleties in Jad Abumrad’s diphthongs. Since I can’t afford nor really want a brand new car, I’ve been looking at used. See my opening paragraph.

And I’m REALLY trying to decide why I shouldn’t just get a 2008-ish Lexus IS350 and call it a day. Maybe because I can’t decide between the IS and the GS? As if a bit more space and a few more features wouldn’t be a bad thing, right? And the upgraded Mark Levinson system, of course. So yeah. Let’s set sights on the previous generation Lexus GS350. The LS is out of my price range, and I’m also just not feeling like I’m THAT old just yet.

Look, I’ve read the reviews of the mid-size RWD luxury cars when they were new. All of the comparisons that put the 5-Series, the E-Class, and even the XF ahead of the tarted up Toyota. But ten years on, is steering feel worth more than “will never break” or “won’t cost you $200 for each labor hour when it does break because all cars eventually break”?

Man, I don’t know. What I do know is that a 2008 GS350 with 90k miles can be had for about $13-14k, and it’s almost certainly CLEAN. Because people who drive GS350s park them in garages and don’t eat Whataburger in them and certainly don’t try to “find the limit” whenever the road ahead opens up. And that car is freaking built to last. This we can all agree upon - Lexus screws together cars like no other company. Driving 10k miles a year, a $13k 8-year old Lexus with 90k miles, properly and lovingly maintained, could be my oldest daughter’s first car in 11 years. And I’d be OK with that.

Talk me out of this. And don’t use the argument of “it’s a boring old man’s car” because I really don’t care. I’m friggin 41. I AM an old man. Moreover, I estimate that of the 10-12 hours I spend in the car each week, 90% of it is at an average speed of less than 20MPH. Besides, I have enough “not boring” with my project car. Even when it’s broken, it’s exciting. So there.

DISCUSSION (51)

Ash78, voting early and often > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:22

I have no beef with the GS, never have. I always saw it as having the last laugh in the RWD luxury touring sedan class. It does everything about 90% as well as everyone, but costs about half to own. Unlike the current crop of Lexuses, this will never go out of style. And a well-kept Lexus will bottom out around $3k or so, even after you drive it for 10 more years. Sounds like a winner to me.

dogisbadob > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:23

Lexus is the best luxury car line, hands down. Toyota quality with some more luxury and prestige added to impress your friends :)

sm70- why not Duesenberg? > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:24

I don’t care for the interior on that particular generation of GS, but there’s no reason I wouldn’t recommend one to anyone. My dad had a GS from the generation prior to this and he loved it.

LongbowMkII > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:25

GS sounds good.

TheHondaBro > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:26

I won’t talk you out of it. It’s a Lexus, the most reliable car on the planet.

Chairman Kaga > Ash78, voting early and often
08/08/2016 at 13:26

One of our VPs has quite the collection. A ‘10 Panamera, a ‘13 X5, a ‘98 535, and a ‘94 SC400. Guess which one has the most miles and has NEVER been in the shop for any malfunction or breakage? He’s the one who told me to consider the GS, which I’d previously written off for whatever reason. Maybe Jalop bias against beige Lexus? Probably that.

FTTOHG Has Moved to https://opposite-lock.com > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:27

Well the dashboards in early 2nd-gen IS’s have a tendency to melt. So make sure to have that inspected if you're looking at one.

EL_ULY > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:29

just as long as it’s not the 06 GS. Besides that, these cars are rockin! They go through tires and brakes doe. They took the “Germans” aspect of the competition too literally in that department lol. Besides that, these are rad cars!

Future next gen S2000 owner > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:29

Get a nice floaty Lincoln Towncar?

Not a fleet one though. One from someone who actually bought it new. Those things will run for 200K all day with regular maintenance. Parts are dirt cheap, because Ford & mod motor. MPG isn’t great good is slightly terrible but space!

Acura RL?

You won’t go wrong commuting in a GS. Plus if you hate it you can sell it in a year and not lose your shirt.

Illegitimus Prime > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:30

I’m freaking 25 and I’m looking at IS and GS... so I can see the appeal. I really can’t think of a way to talk you out of it.

Chairman Kaga > FTTOHG Has Moved to https://opposite-lock.com
08/08/2016 at 13:32

Yeah, I also brought home an ‘04 IS300 and really liked it, but felt it was a little small for the family, and also seemed to have some interior quality issues, not the least of which was the melty dash. A friend of mine has an ‘04 SportCross and gave me some links on how to refinish it. Still, I think I’d prefer the newer car. More power, more space, better build quality.

and 100 more > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:32

Nope, not gonna talk you out of it.

I’ve been looking at Austin-friendly commuter cars, and Lexus keeps coming up. My GS would likely be a generation previous to the one you specified. Something comfy to eat up miles in, good for the occasional road trip out of state, and still respectable enough power to have some fun on 130 headed down to S.A.

My only misgiving is the lack of a wagon. I really, really want that extra space, and the RX just doesn’t seem like the proper Rx for my situation.

rb1971 ARGQF+CayenneTurbo+E9+328GTS+R90S > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:34

Funny timing on this. I’ve had German luxury cars almost exclusively (exceptions: an Italian luxury car, and a Lexus beater for Land Cruiser duty) for the past 10 years or so, and I was just saying this weekend that the 200k mile Lexus is in some respects a better car than the German cars. It doesn’t really break, when it does it isn’t expensive, and I don’t care about having to baby it by parking it inside all the time and wiping it with diapers (ok, not really, but almost). Then I went and looked at some IS-F’s and they are way cheaper while I’m sure being a lot more reliable.

I don’t think I’m personally there yet - and the current front design language across all Lexus cars is just terrible - but I think it’s a totally sensible decision to make. When the M6 and i8 leases are done, I might do that. (Or I might make a total left turn and get a Giulia assuming they ever release them in the US.)

Chairman Kaga > Future next gen S2000 owner
08/08/2016 at 13:35

Kinja'd!!!

While I wouldn’t mind living out some Raylan Givens delusions of grandeur, I’ve never loved the Pather as much as other folks. It’s big, it loves mods, it’ll go forever, but I just can’t stand the interiors. Reminds me too much of my grandad’s car. The one from 1982.

Chairman Kaga > and 100 more
08/08/2016 at 13:36

My wife has a 2014 Highlander, so we’re covered when we really need to haul ourselves and a ton o’ shit.

Chairman Kaga > EL_ULY
08/08/2016 at 13:37

Issues with the ‘06? I’ haven’t done much research in the prior generation.

jjhats > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:37

I agree 10000% with you. used luxury cars are a huge gamble UNLESS you buy Japanese. and lets be serious acura isn’t luxury. I love LS GS and IS and would buy any of them any day of the week than a new Toyota.

No Prius Needed > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:37

If its anything like my Lexus, it will probably outlive you. Also, the 2006 model came 3rd and beat the E60 5er, the E350, the Audi A6 4.2, and a Jag in a Car and Driver comparo. The only cars that beat it were the Acura RL (also a good choice) and the Infiniti M45.

Future next gen S2000 owner > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:37

Has the Acura RL crossed your mind?

jjhats > Future next gen S2000 owner
08/08/2016 at 13:37

not even remotely close to a lexus in terms of luxury comfort and tech. The town car is honestly a joke imo and I love crown vics

Funktheduck > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:38

Out of all my previous cars, I only find myself missing my old GS. I've never driven a better car on the highway.

Future next gen S2000 owner > jjhats
08/08/2016 at 13:39

No, it isn’t as luxurious/tech laden but as a cheaper, comfy commuter that will run forever, it isn’t a bad option.

Chairman Kaga > Future next gen S2000 owner
08/08/2016 at 13:39

It has, and I need to comparo-drive it with the GS. Honestly, it’s going to come down to comfort. I have a bad back and chronic sciatica, so whichever one treats my decrepit body the best will win.

and 100 more > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:39

See, I’m the only driver in a one-car household. I can’t justify the cost of owning two cars yet. Utility trumps almost everything else, in my case.

I hope your car shopping goes well! Let us know what you end up with.

Chairman Kaga > Funktheduck
08/08/2016 at 13:39

That’s the kind of endorsement I’m looking for.

415s30 W123TSXWaggoIIIIIIo ( •_•))°) > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:40

Totally would, or a good Acura. I see a few around me, people have kept theirs in good shape and there is nothing wrong with them.

Chairman Kaga > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:43

I mean, read this - http://www.motortrend.com/cars/acura/rl/…

Would you by any but the bottom three USED? Especially today?

Funktheduck > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:44

Seriously, every time someone brings them up on oppo I start looking around for one. I don't know if I'll ever own another luxury car again but unless it comes with a good warranty I'll be looking at Lexus, specifically the GS

C62030 > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:44

“Old man cars.” Old man cars are the greatest. There is absolutely nothing I would rather drive anywhere but a tight B-road than like a Mark V Continental or a Lexus or a Citroen SM.

No Prius Needed > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:47

I haven't gotten to sit in a GS, but the RL's seats are great.

Ash78, voting early and often > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:47

The entire automotive journalism industry is against Japanese luxury in some small way. It's gotten better, but the pro-German bias is always there.

Milky > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:49

Or buy a GS430/460, do some exhaust work and entertain yourself with noise on the commute.

ESSSIX GmbH - Accountant/Wagon Thumper > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:50

Do it, my mom has one. She says that she’s going to keep it forever, but if she doesn’t I’m next.

That car is sexy inside and out.. also ventilated seats.

Steve is equipped with Electronic Fool Injection > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 13:51

+1 for the Jad Abumrad reference.

Chairman Kaga > Milky
08/08/2016 at 13:55

The V8 cars are rare as hen’s teeth around here, and when they turn up seem to command a LARGE premium over the V6. I don’t know if ~30hp and a burbling exhaust is worth $5k!

EL_ULY > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 14:02

06 year 1st year of the 3rd gen and it had a lot of teething issues. They still called it the GS 300 because it used the 3.0 3GR V6 engine. It was the only year they used this engine lol :] 07 and up (GS350, 430, 450h, 460) is what you want.

JRapp: now as good as new again > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 14:21

The only beef I have with Lexii is that I can’t pronounce it with a serious face, without saying “Lexshush”. I don’t know where that really came from, I just have flashbacks of a Top Gear interview where they were making fun of that, and that’s ruined Lexus for me for life.

Other than that, that’s the same reasoning why I ended up with a big Acura as apposed to another big German.

Rico > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 14:37

The GS is definitely a winner and a looker. It looks suprisingly well with newer Lexus wheels on it too as I’ve seen one recently with newer GS wheels and thought it looked great. The Lexus will be far and ahead everything else from that era reliability wise as you already know. I’d prefer it over the IS because of space and with a longer wheelbase it will ride much better. The IS is more sporty than luxury tourer.

Rico > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 14:40

And worse gas mileage!

archie68 > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 14:51

I went through a similar choice about 6 weeks ago. I wanted a cash car that would be a good daily driver. I used an old Jalopnik article about the 10 most reliable cars for $5k and was set on a Lexus IS 300 from the 2000s. My car buddy went shopping with me to check engines, etc and he talked me into buying a 2002 BMW E39 530i instead for the same price. Both had about 136k miles.

On the plus side the 530i is much more of a ‘grown up’ car and has more space for my family when needed. I love the way it drives! However I have already had to replace the water pump, pulley tensioner, front brake pads and rotors (dealership discounted $200 for the brake job as we noted it on our inspection). The driver side window regulator also died about 2 weeks into owning it. We also did an oil and coolant change. All told, after doing all the fluids/repairs/replacements I’ve spent about $500 on parts and $300 on labor (my buddy did the repairs dirt cheap). And I STILL have a coolant leak (we should have replaced the thermostat while we were doing the water pump).

Love my E39 but if I had it to do over I would buy the Lexus and deal with the smaller size.

Chairman Kaga > Steve is equipped with Electronic Fool Injection
08/08/2016 at 14:58

Addicted to More Perfect. I want that one to become a full series!

Schaefft > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 16:11

I can only agree. The 06+ GS definitely is at the top of my list for a nice worry-free daily driver. They never sold the 350 in Europe and the 3oo is a bit slow, so I’d settle with the GS450h which comes with the benefit of being loaded with everything that was available in it most of the time as it was supposed to be the flagship of the GS line. Its also fast! Cons are batteries that seem to fail right around now on the early cars, and the CVT transmission. A clean GS350 sounds like an excellent idea.

Milky > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 18:28

Ah I didn’t realize they went for that much more used. Well damn.

I can say over the weekend I was stuck in Chicago traffic and having my car make noise, made it enjoyable.

E92M3 > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 19:34

I’m not going to talk you out of it. For me though garage/parking space is limited. So, if a car can serve 2 purposes that’s even better. For example: my M3 CAN be driven to work, and it can be used as a weekend car/track car. If you never go on fun mountain/canyon runs then just get a Lexus. Or if you really want to get bang for your buck get a 3 yr old Prius.

jdrgoat - Ponticrack? > Chairman Kaga
08/08/2016 at 20:24

I hate Toyota. I love the Lexus GS (most specifically the GS460). Figure that one out.

Go for it!

Chairman Kaga > Milky
08/09/2016 at 11:25

In fact, I don’t even see one for sale within 250 miles of Austin at the moment. That’s the other problem with Lexus - people keep the damn things forever.

Chairman Kaga > E92M3
08/09/2016 at 11:27

If I want to actually drive just to drive, I spend a week making sure the Alfa isn’t going to explode, then get my 3 hours of fun for the month on Saturday. That’s the standard ratio for Alfa ownership. I’d bet a vintage P51 Mustang has a lower maintenance to seat time ratio!

Nisman > Chairman Kaga
08/09/2016 at 12:47

I agree with all of this. I’m 22 and I lust for an LS 460.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Chairman Kaga
08/10/2016 at 06:43

Can’t talk you out of something like that. I’m the same way, I’d rather have a really luxurious highway cruiser over a race car. It’s why I almost bought a Volvo S80

the Lexus are great cars. Only problem, at least by me is that people don’t really trade em in, so only super high mileage ones or really expensive super low mileage examples exist.

The only other option I’d consider is an Acura. Now, it’ll probably be FWD if that matters to you, but they are also really nice and seem to a little more available (at least by me)

Chairman Kaga > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
08/10/2016 at 10:08

I’m also looking hard at the M35. As far as reliability goes, they’re hard beat. And while not as powerful as the GS350, it seems to be a better handler and also more comfortable (some recorded issues with the Lexus ergonomics).

Chairman Kaga > No Prius Needed
08/10/2016 at 10:09

I’m looking hard at the M35/45 too.