Purchasing A 1997 Or 1999 Es300?

[mspin24]

I currently own a 1996 es300 and I'm looking to step up to the new body style Lexus introduced in 1997. I have done some research on this new model and see that there a lot of good things Lexus did but I did notice one big change in 1999. They introduced a new power train. A VVT motor and new transmission. I have test driven both and I can feel the difference in both but I can also feel a big difference in 96 to 97 in the way they ride.

My question is. I want peoples opinion, weather I should buy a 99 or 97-98? If you recommend the 99, why? And if I decide to go with a 97-98 model is there anything I might need to know about them. Like problems.

Any help

Marc

[melhadri]

I have a black/tan 98' ES300. I am very pleased with its performance and reliability. The only issue I had was with the EGR valve going bad at 80k; causal agent was carbon build-up. Aside from that, it has been great. If I could do it over again, I would have bought the ES with NAV and HID's. Also, I like the taillights on the 97-99 but would rather have the 00-01 taillights.

[mspin24]

I have a black/tan 98' ES300.  I am very pleased with its performance and reliability.  The only issue I had was with the EGR valve going bad at 80k; causal agent was carbon build-up.  Aside from that, it has been great.  If I could do it over again, I would have bought the ES with NAV and HID's.  Also, I like the taillights on the 97-99 but would rather have the 00-01 taillights.

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Thanks for your help. How much was that fix?

[lexusk8]

Marc, if your budget permits, go with the '99 ES. Like you said, some improvements were made to the engine and transmission compared to the '97 predecessor. Even better is the '00-'01 ES model, which includes a newer and cleaner look (front and rear), and more options for the interior like heated seats, HIDs, and wood steering wheel.

[mspin24]

Marc, if your budget permits, go with the '99 ES.  Like you said, some improvements were made to the engine and transmission compared to the '97 predecessor.  Even better is the '00-'01 ES model, which includes a newer and cleaner look (front and rear), and more options for the interior like heated seats, HIDs, and wood steering wheel.

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Thank you for that. I'll keep it in mind.

[Geo]

I have the 2001 ES300... a very classy car. Mine is black with a tan interior. I looked at several before going with the 2001. I liked how clean the tail lights looked and it just seemed to have more elegant lines. I also liked all the chrome on black. George