Hi all!:
I am a brand new member (joined today). I have conducted numerous searches and don't see responses that address my questions. That said, please accept my apologies if this topic and associated questions has been previously addressed.
Background
I am thirty years old and need to replace my current car.
I would like to spend no more than $28K to $29K
I would like a quiet car, but not one that puts me to sleep!
Cars Driven So Far
I have driven an GS 300 (2000 with ~45,000 miles) and an ES 300 (2003 with ~16,000 miles). I drove the ES first and appeared rather sluggish and a tiny bit boring to drive (sorry ES fans). That said, very quiet and nicely equipped inside. The GS was alot more fun to drive, yet I think it was slightly louder than the ES and also 3 years older.
Here are my questions:
1. Given my budget and the information provided, which car would you buy and why? I know this is an entirely subjective decision, but I am really interested in your responses.
2. Does the GS typically have more road noise? If so, is it so noticeable that it becomes annoying?
3. Should I be concerned that the GS typcially come with 30,000 miles versus ES with 16,000 to 20,000 miles?
4. Pricing appears to be all over the place. The ES I drove was in the dealer at $30,900 yet I found it on the web at $27,750. Alternatively, I found a GS on ebay at $25,000 (buy now price). The dealers website showed $29,900 for the same car! Bottom line, how much can I bargain with a dealer on both models?
5. Is there any difference in the cost of tires. Assuming both cars are driven 24,000 per year (95% on freeways) will I have to replace tires more quickly on the GS?
6. Finally, is there a noticeable difference in insurance, maintenance and associated costs between each model?
I hope these questions aren't too dumb
I look forward to any and all answers to my questions above. Thanks in advance for your input!