2001 Lexus Gs 300
The Lexus GS 300 is one of the lesser common used luxury cars on the market. The GS sedans from Lexus pride themselves on "rebellious luxury", basically making them the quickest Lexus sedans (with the exception of any performance Lexus, of course) made by the upper-class division of Toyota Co. Indeed, as many reviewers will testify, the Lexus mid-size power sedan lives up to its name.
The number one item to consider when buying a Lexus is whether you want dependability from your car. If you aren't too interested in reliability, Lexus may not be for you. However, for those of us who enjoy a car starting up when we turn that key, the GS 300 satisfies, delivers, and breaks performance benchmarks. The second generation of the GS (of which the GS 300 is a part of) was in production from 1997 - 2004. An excellent quality GS 300 with about 90,000 miles on it will cost you about 10k (2001 year model). That is a great price for someone who wants luxury on the value. Since its a Lexus, these babies will last you for years, and the mileage is no significant detour because of the company's legendary reliability.
Lexus parts do cost quite a pretty penny, however the low replacement rate as compared to competitors such as Chrysler, Mercedes, and BMW makes it less costly over a period of time. The second generation Lexus styling isn't the most bold (in fact it is supposed to be more subtle of a design). The interior, however, is luxurious and grand. The seats, steering wheel, and shifter are all leather so be careful during the summer months not to get burnt (I have). The sports package, which I was lucky as to own for a year, is an extensive package that includes much from chrome rims with the Lexus marquee to an increased limiter and sports suspension. Also, remember the GS 400 is also available for those who desire more power.
The GS 400 is the powerful twin to the economical GS 300. Expect to spend about a few thousand extra for the upgrade. MPGs will suffer, but you are looking at a massive horsepower increase (from 228 hp to 300 hp). The GS 300 will reach from 0 - 60 in 7.6 seconds while its brother will do that feat in a mere 5.4 seconds. The 400 was upgraded in 2001 to the GS 430, which featured the same specs but with an increased torque.
Other miscellaneous additions to the GS (many of which occurred in the 2nd generation's face lift in 2001) include woodtrim on the inside, paddle shifters on the steering wheel, a clearer (and red-er) upgrade to the taillights, and optional xenon lights.
The Lexus GS 300 is a beautiful sedan that has a smooth ride with the touch of youth. It is quite speedy compared to other Lexus models with modest power. It is for the subtle, intellectual, power-loving car driver. If you are in the market for an inexpensive luxury car, consider Lexus' second generation GS series.
