Faults:

Bought new Yokohomas right after purchase, and that's it. The Yoko's are great for this model.

General Comments:

So, I have the ’97 LS400, but also have the 2001 LS430, and 2009 LS460L. I have also owned a 1991 LS400. I have mostly driven Mercedes and Lexus over the past 20 years. I became very partial to the Mercedes from the 80’s and 90’s for their very responsive handling, as well as low maintenance. However, the time has come where, the suspensions on the older Mercedes need work before driving, and that is more expensive than engine work.

Anyway, this 1997 LS400 is a real joy to drive, because it almost has the same type of road feel as the Mercedes w140 cars I liked so much, and the Lexus brand is very dependable. I had the car about a week and a half, and hit a deer. Had it repaired, and have been driving it since. It had right at 210K miles upon purchase, and is on 214k now. Not a hint of any problems, accelerates extremely well, and a bit more economical on gas than the 2001 LS430. Seats are still in great shape, air conditioning works well, and it is relatively smooth. I say relatively because, having those other two that are “melted butter smooth”, to compare it to, allows me to hear and feel the difference, which is not bad, just a difference in technology. I am 6’4, and have no issue with leg room, or comfort. Space behind me isn’t bad, but a man probably couldn’t sit there. Numerous gadgets either don’t work, or work when they want to. Seat warmers do not work at all; the telescoping steering wheel works when it wants to; the seat controls work perfectly; the antennae does not go up or down; the hood will not stay up without assistance.

All in all, it is a wonderful 23 year old car that absorbs my 140 mile per day commute well. It does not leak any fluids; there is no ticking; no acceleration hesitation; no vibrations from engine or suspension. Really happy with it, and bought it from a gentleman who loved it, and paid way too much keeping it maintained (IMO). He was one of those guys who the garage says, “you need this”, and he says, “do it”. They did, and he paid the price, even after the car was WELL past warranty years. I use an indie, who finds GM parts “prices”, and charges less than half shop price (he’s mobile); the only way to go, in my opinion, for cars outside of warranty.

Faults:

Nothing!!!

General Comments:

I am 67 years old, I have owned sports cars (Corvettes, MGs, Miatas), trucks (F150, Tacoma, Nissan) and more cars than I would believe. I picked up my 1997 Coach edition on the last day of the IoLa Wisconsin car show for $3500 because the owner did not want to transport it home. Thank You Jesus!!!

I own 6 other vehicles, but I now almost exclusively drive the Lexus; it is a quick, smooth ride, comfortable, and cheap to drive.

I looked at a LS460 in Madison WI. But I like the LS400 better (ride and handling etc). I am headed to Florida soon to look at a couple more 400 coaches so I have a back up in case of future problems (none expected). I can't really explain why I like this car so much, I just feel good when I get in and drive it. So I guess if the shoe fits, wear it.