If you had about 35K to spend on a car....what would it be?

I like the 02 LS430 for its reliabilty.....but doesn't really do much for the old excitement factor.

I like the 02 XJR for its power and style, but don't like the navigation system and the lack of head, leg, hip room.

I like the 02 S-430 the most, good space, nice style but reliability and maintenance sounds iffy.

Q45...not a big nissan fan but its got alot of the qualities I am looking for

Any other suggestions?

(I'm probably missing some.....BMW7's too expensive, Audi A8 may be nice but a little plain too)

Looking for RWD, V8 powered Sedan.........(hence no Caddy in the mix)

There are the Chrysler 300C / Dodge Magnum. Both should be available new with a hemi for about that price.

Frankly, I'd go with with I have: a new CTS 3.6 with the sport suspension.

Mustang GT. they are $ 32,000 here!

From your poll I would take the XJ.

Mustang GT. they are $ 32,000 here!

From your poll I would take the XJ.


I love the way the new 'stangs look on the outside but can't stand the interior....cheap hollow plastic brake lever, cheapo center dash area.....live axle.....


Nice Avatar....is that Anna in San Diego!?

I love the way the new 'stangs look on the outside but can't stand the interior....cheap hollow plastic brake lever, cheapo center dash area.....live axle.....


Nice Avatar....is that Anna in San Diego!?

I can't get enough of that new Mustang styling! Considering that a new CTS costs $49K!!

Who's Anna?? It's ALL ABOUT Natty, you know that. :)

LOL!
I thought you'd switched to Ms. Kournikova....she was just in town throwing the ceremonial pitch at the new stadium downtown


I like the 300C but its still a chrysler and am not sold on its qualities.....the CTS is nice but I need something larger....

LOL!
I thought you'd switched to Ms. Kournikova....she was just in town throwing the ceremonial pitch at the new stadium downtown


300's are ok, and I'd be happy with even the Touring edition because we get the 250 hp V6 but the U.S. doesn't for some reason. link below..

Nope, it's Nat at a recent charity baseball game, pitching of course. I think Anna looks like a man. :suspense: esp. in the new Omega watch brochure.

http://www.daimlerchrysler.ca/EN/CHRYSLER/1,,EN-CHRYSLER-300-PERFORMANCE,.html

Nope, it's Nat at a recent charity baseball game, pitching of course. I think Anna looks like a man. :suspense: esp. in the new Omega watch brochure.

LOL! I still think she's hot....although shes probably mean....but I digress...

I really liked the 2002 Q45 but I've read alot of complaints about serious reliabilty issues with that model year.....nice interior and toys though.

I want a reliable quiet long lasting serene car......I will be braving the worst commute in the country...LA!

You would be surprised what 35k will get right now with good negotiating skills...

2003 Jaguar S-Type R
2004 CTS-V
2001 BMW 740iL (probably more like 30 for this one)
2000 BMW M5
2001-02 Mercedes S430

I picked the A8 because of how it looks and the fact that its AWD.

You would be surprised what 35k will get right now with good negotiating skills...

2003 Jaguar S-Type R
2004 CTS-V
2001 BMW 740iL (probably more like 30 for this one)
2000 BMW M5
2001-02 Mercedes S430


Exactly! There's lots to choose from.....don't wanna get the last model 7 series bimmer, looks dated, expensive fix, thinkin of the s430 but looks like its gonna cost big to keep it up and running and insured.....M5 is a choice I hadn't considered...but I wanted the latest models of whatever I choose.

Yeah, Parker Cadillac is having a clearance on the '04 CTS-V's. The BRAND new ones are about $39,000, and the ones with a few thousand miles are down in the $35,000 range.

But Personally, I'd go with the M5 since it has nearly as much HP as the CTS-V and it IS a BMW.

LS 430, hands down.

Brian

One reason, I've noticed, why European luxury cars seem less appealing than their Japanese counterparts is the exchange rates. The Euro is currently much higher than the US Dollar, so the prices of their exports are going up; the Japanese Yen, though, has been kept lower, so that's reflected in the costs of Lexuses and Infinitis, etc.

I'm the lone S430 vote. That's the only one I've driven. It's a sweet ride, and I think it's better looking than the Lexus.

The Q45 is a steal right now thanks to low resale. I voted for the XJR. Jaguar build quality is still better than '00-'04 M-B, minus the blandness of Lexus and the painful long term maintenance costs of Audi.

The A8 though is a rolling work of art.

How about a 2001 BMW X5 V8?

A friend pointed out that these have traded lower....and he's right. Its at around 30K$

For that price, I would probably get a new Mustang. The styling cues from the 64 1/2-66 (front end), and 67-68-69 (rear end), just looks so much better than anything they have made in a long time. Personally, I'm glad they decided to go back to the live rear axle. They may not handle all that well, but how many people these days go autocrossing in their Mustangs, unless it's a vintage race, and they're running a GT350R. I'd rather have the car not handle as well, than snap axle shafts, or suffer from wheel hop. Live rear axles are much stronger than any independent rear setup, and are much better for the 1/4 mile. The mod factor on the Mustang is incredible too. They may not have a nice interior, but anything's a step up from my '66. All it needs is the sequential tail light setup that the old Shelby's and Cougar's used. Someone makes a kit for it I think.

The Lexus LS430 is nice as well, although I always thought they were more than 35k. They are pretty fast too, and handle well also. You can do alot to them as well.

How about a 2001 BMW X5 V8?

A friend pointed out that these have traded lower....and he's right. Its at around 30K$

Theyre not bad, but while they look real nice, theyre not tops on utility (a 3 series wagon has more cargo room), and theyre about to get replaced by a new larger model. Also, they are one of the few BMW's Ive driven that have shakes and rattles, and some body flex.

If you like sitting on a park bench while you drive, then an X5 isn't too bad. They have the worst seats of any vehicle I've every ridden in. I went for a drive with my friend a couple of times when he had his Grandfathers 4.4, and his Father's 4.6. Every turn he made in either one, I ended up planted against the the door, as I slid across the seat. They are very hard, and have almost zero lateral support. The back seats are even worse. They are pretty sporty though for an SUV though, especially the 4.6.

A8s are pretty nice although I'd test drive an 04 V.

If you like sitting on a park bench while you drive, then an X5 isn't too bad. They have the worst seats of any vehicle I've every ridden in. I went for a drive with my friend a couple of times when he had his Grandfathers 4.4, and his Father's 4.6. Every turn he made in either one, I ended up planted against the the door, as I slid across the seat. They are very hard, and have almost zero lateral support. The back seats are even worse. They are pretty sporty though for an SUV though, especially the 4.6.

Yeah I've heard/read about the seats.....also ride's supposed to be on the punishing side with the sport package....

So the search continues....the more I think about the better the LS sounds.
The 2000 LS400 is about 10K$ cheaper than the 2001 LS430.....I'm wondering if I can live with the somewhat dated look of the LS400 (only costs about about $20,000) and stick the difference in an IRA....

I'd go for the Q45 if it were more reliable....some of the reports on that car are unbelievablely bad! (haven't read anything bad about the reliabilty of the Lexus)

I'm a glutton for punishment. I love the A8 and would probably deal with all the problems it brings just to own one. I'd really like an S8 though, but it's obviously out of this price range.

The 2000 LS400 is soooo blah Id rather get something like a Mercury Marauder or older Mercedes S Class. If you get one with Navigation its OK at best, the Navigation system in the 2000 ran off a hard drive so there were no DVDs or CDs to contend with. Of course, nav updates will be expensive if at all possible.

The 2001 LS430 is a far better vehicle, and Ultra Luxury package models with less than 50k miles can be had for about 35k or less and include MOST of the features the STS is making such a big deal about right now...

Heated/Cooled seats

Rear heated seats

Adaptive Cruise Control

Rear AC/Heat Controls and Radio controls in the Armrest

Rear cooler for backseat passengers (STS doesnt have this)

Park Distance Control

Adjustable Air Suspension

Xenon Headlights with Washers

Navigation system with Mark Levinson Audio System

Alot of bang for 35k... just boring as a peanut is all.

New car for 35k I'd have to go with the 300C ( with a good extended bumper to bumper warranty). Used, I might hunt down an 04 CTS V.

The 2000 LS400 is soooo blah Id rather get something like a Mercury Marauder or older Mercedes S Class. If you get one with Navigation its OK at best, the Navigation system in the 2000 ran off a hard drive so there were no DVDs or CDs to contend with. Of course, nav updates will be expensive if at all possible.

The 2001 LS430 is a far better vehicle, and Ultra Luxury package models with less than 50k miles can be had for about 35k or less and include MOST of the features the STS is making such a big deal about right now...

Heated/Cooled seats

Rear heated seats

Adaptive Cruise Control

Rear AC/Heat Controls and Radio controls in the Armrest

Rear cooler for backseat passengers (STS doesnt have this)

Park Distance Control

Adjustable Air Suspension

Xenon Headlights with Washers

Navigation system with Mark Levinson Audio System

Alot of bang for 35k... just boring as a peanut is all.


Playdrv you make some goodpoints....glad to have you weighin in. I totally agree with the blandness of the LS400 and the significant improvement found in the LS430. Theres a price difference of $15,000 between that one year.....justifiable but HUGE! (can't you still the xenon and stuff in a LS400?)

Its happening, the classic problem of "well 35K plus tax is getting close to 40K, but if I was gonna spend 40K then I can get a ......" you know how it goes.

Being straight up with you, I like flash in my cars, but Ive owned an LS430, and its probably the second best car I ever owned, only my 2001 330i was a better car.

The LS400's you will commonly find, most of them have Xenon lights, though it WAS an option IIRC, so you have to make sure and check. Ive seen a couple of that generation body style with Halogen lights.

If you think about it, the LS430 has not changed much except for exterior improvements since 2001 and technologically speaking? Its one of the most advanced cars on the road. In 2001 it WAS THE most advanced car on the road. And the good thing about Lexus is they execute "ADVANCED" without the usual "UNRELIABLE AND FRUSTRATING" so common with MB, Cadillac and BMW. It really is a solidly reliable daily driver that will not leave you stranded, and the only thing really lacking (not anymore) was the trick no-key ignitions all the luxury cars have now.

The Infiniti Q has similar technology and a more rev happy, higher horse engine, but overall leaves more on the table than the LS. Who knows, I really want a Range Rover or an M5/S Type R, but if I can snag a good enough deal I might just do another LS430.

Even if you DID spend 40k on something, your not likely to find the value for dollar the LS gives you in anything south of 45 grand.

Just looking at the pricing on the 01-02 S Class Benzos.....its scary to see the depreciation hit!

01 S430 started at around $80K in 4 years it is now selling for $30K
01 LS430 started at around $60K in 4 years it is now selling for $35K

Mindboggling....I prefer the S430 but these numbers suggest an increasing expensive ownership history.

Have you (or anyone here) Owned one of these? Is it really that unreliable/expensive to own?

Is it really that unreliable/expensive to own?

Leloz has a 1998 S600 AMG and I think he said his last complete tune-up was somewhere in the realm of 2000.00, and the car has about 50k miles on it IIRC.

He will also tell you (and I concur), that after the 1999 they pretty much went south in terms of build quality, reliability and overall headaches. I know few owners of recent MBs that dont have them in for repairs on a regular basis.

Leloz has a 1998 S600 AMG and I think he said his last complete tune-up was somewhere in the realm of 2000.00, and the car has about 50k miles on it IIRC.

Jeez, sure it a 12 cylinder AMG but thats the kinda thing that would make me park the car.......

Between buying a car for me and one for my wife at the same time....I'm thinkin more and more like I should go for a LS400 and drive it for a while and save $ for to buy a house......jeez how old AM I!??

There was a time, not too long ago, where I couldnt understand the folks driving these boring LS.....now it seem like such a decent option. :-(

Chrylser 300C SRT-8 if I could wrangle the deal, the 300C Hemi at least. Might also look at the Ford Crown Victoria, because at 22k to start, it's a decent big sedan, and I can always shove a small blower on it for just a couple k.

Chrylser 300C SRT-8 if I could wrangle the deal, the 300C Hemi at least. Might also look at the Ford Crown Victoria, because at 22k to start, it's a decent big sedan, and I can always shove a small blower on it for just a couple k.

300C maybe but it feels a little pimped IMHO....the crown vic, solid rear axle......really doesnt fit into the Luxo-trouble free theme I am trying for....thanks for the ideas though.

If i had to buy one of what you listed it would be the Q ....

BUT ...4 doors , used , rear drive and a v8 ....why not the linclon LS ?i happen to be a fan of there understaed look ....and the dew98 platform

but for 35 grand for me to play with id have a GTO or a nice used vette

Hmmm Lincoln's....dunno about the reliability of those. Also not as big as I want. Defintley not the GTO, don't like those at all plus its a coupe. No sport cars....although the vette is very tempting.

Interesting facts I found out about Lexus LS, there's a new LS coming out 2007.....that means paying up for LS430 right now isn't such a great deal since it will soon be "last model year" anyways. Also interestingly enought the LS400 has a stronger reliabilty track record than the LS430's. I guess the 2nd gen 400's were built to last forever...more so than the current genereation.

i tell ya i see more of those old big lexus's than any of the others , the german stuff is typicaly mantnence hungry (as others have mentioned) infinitis are typicaly hit and miss ,some of those early q45s had chainguide issues ...but the 2nd and 3rd gen Q ships have done pretty well ...but by and large there is a ton of big LS 4XX cars runnign around to this day with 6 digits on the odo and 15years on the title

also a true story on the big lexus...7 months ago i saw one on my way home from work for sale , decent shape , very low price ....the car was a 96 or so ....had damn near 200k on it , so im talking with the guy , he opens the door and this musty smell rolls out of it ...it was a flood car ..he said "i aint gonna lie to you it was in a flood 6 years ago"......so i asked what all was done ....he did alot but ....that engine and tranny were original ....the damned thing had 200k ont he odo , almost 10 years on the title , and been thru a flood ...and still ran liek brand new

also a true story on the big lexus...7 months ago i saw one on my way home from work for sale , decent shape , very low price ....the car was a 96 or so ....had damn near 200k on it , so im talking with the guy , he opens the door and this musty smell rolls out of it ...it was a flood car ..he said "i aint gonna lie to you it was in a flood 6 years ago"......so i asked what all was done ....he did alot but ....that engine and tranny were original ....the damned thing had 200k ont he odo , almost 10 years on the title , and been thru a flood ...and still ran liek brand new

My Aunts Chrysler Dynasty (1988) has the original tranny with 450,000 kms!! Never torn appart and original. The engine went through new head gaskets though, but that's pretty damn good imo!

yah but having to deal with flood is a diffrent matter with all the silt and other crap that gets into the engine ...

450 miles on a 88 dynasty is amazing , let alone 450,000 KMS ....LOL

yah but having to deal with flood is a diffrent matter with all the silt and other crap that gets into the engine ...

450 miles on a 88 dynasty is amazing , let alone 450,000 KMS ....LOL

LOL!

I think most cars today are built pretty good, but the electronics will be the weak spot. Hell, I still see my Dad's 1960's Chev running around town! And his 1956 Ford tow truck was still running at the service station he had until 1979 with NOTHING other than maintenance.

We also took out my Stop Dad's 1978 Chev Bonanza half tonne and I noticed the mileage was 96,000 kms or almost 65,ooo miles and he has done NOTHING to it other than tires, plugs and shocks!

Dodge Dynasty... damn... theres a nameplate I hadnt heard in ages.

Dodge Dynasty... damn... theres a nameplate I hadnt heard in ages.

For real..... pretty amazing.

Simple mechanicals tend to hold out forever....whats amazing about the LS is how its jam packed with electromechanical gizmos and still keeps on ticking.

Like you said, theres an amazing number of em running around with high miles (above 150K) and still trading on ebay!

Whats the story on the last generation E class?

Specifically 2000 E55 is selling for around $30K.......always had a soft spot for these beasts.

Playdrv, hows the maintenance cost/reliabilty on one of these?

While its of no comparison to the 2003 model, the 2000 E55 is still a good car. I dont really know about the reliability of these overall, but the older body E Class seems to suffer from less problems than the current one, its also got alot less technology to break. They are rated at 349hp so they are still quick on their feet. The interior is very nice as well and pretty much every feature but Nav is standard (xenon lights etc).

Between a 2000 E55 and a 2000 M5 the clear choice for me would still be the BMW though, it really is an icon in the uber-fast car world. For alot of reasons the new V10 M5 is not really as dramatically different from the older M5 as the 2003 E55 was from the 2000 version. The older M5 gives a much more direct and controlled driving experience, where the new model has so much technology in it, it literally has almost a parasitic effect on the driveability of the car. There are still alot of M5 Purists who would rather supercharge the previous gen than deal with the issues (and looks) of the V10.

Jeez....Bretts new thread is putting me to shame.....anyways:

I just got back from the Lexus dealership.....one of the best dealership experiences ever!

Got to drive the LS430 and the SC430. I like em both but that LS430 is out of this world! Black on black LS, sweet as hell.

I really fell in love with the ventilated (AC) seats! Best option ever!
Sadly it doesn't come on the cheaper models and hence out of price range.....I seriously considered a new ES330 because you can get em with vented seats.

As good as they were, I came away with a new found appreciation for how much of a bargain my 98 deville really is! It rides super nice, I like the style, tons of room inside.....and it costs less than half of a 98 LS400.

If it wasn't for the sneaking suspicion that I may be due for some major repairs soon (showing no signs) I figured I should unload it while it still has value and isn't costing me big repair bucks.

Ill say it again, I KNOW a 2001 LS430 Ultra will keep you satisfied for YEARS. If you dont have the mexican jumping bean approach to cars I am cursed with, this is THE under 35k status quo vehicle. Throw in a 13,000.00 option package of toys that would be at home in J-Lo's limo, and it really is a no brainer.

........ the mexican jumping bean approach to cars.......

LOL! I guess I have a quasi "mexican jumpin bean" thing going....I usually end up trading cars every two years or so unless its a true keeper. The only one I kept for 4 years so far is the 1998 Accord V6, truly a good car. I couldn't total the 98 Z28 fast enough....that thing was POS.

Whats bothering me is at 35K there are just so many options.....E55, M5, LS, FX, S, etc etc....but you're right, driving the LS430 clinched it, its a fan-fugu-tastic automobile.....I stilll think paying $20,000 for a LS400 and pocketing the difference is the prudent move......