Think of luxurious modern classic cars, and the usual suspects spring to mind: the incredible Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe, the opulent E38 7-Series BMW, and the awe-inspiring Lincoln Continental. All set a high benchmark, with all being fantastic places to spend time. But, there is one card that trumps them all.
On its arrival, the Lexus LS 400 shook the car world. Here was a car that was so good it made its competitors sit up and take notice. These days Lexus is well-known for its high standards. The breathtaking interior of the new Lexus RZ450e reinforces this point. But back in 1989, the sheer quality of the LS 400 staggered the automotive industry.
Often described as being close to perfect, the LS 400 has built up a solid reputation. Reliable, fast, and luxurious, it can still impress today. For those looking to grab a bargain sedan, it should be at the top of the list. Here's what we still love about the Lexus LS 400.
10 Effortless Excellence
It may not look like much, but the Lexus LS 400 is simply superb. It was painstakingly designed, tested, and redesigned to make it one of the best cars ever sold. Toyota created the Lexus brand specifically to showcase this remarkable car. Now that says it all.
To drive, the Lexus LS 400 feels like no other. As if insulated from the outside world, a driver can just relax. Every inch of the car feels solid and robust. It gives off a quality feel that makes other luxury sedans look like budget commuters. The LS 400 is a prestige vehicle, even today.
9 Luxury Firsts
The development of the Lexus LS 400 ran to over $ 1 billion. During this spending spree, a lot of new executive car toys were earmarked for inclusion. In some cases, these became industry firsts for a production vehicle. Each tempts buyers out of their German sedans.
Never previously seen, the LS 400 featured an electrical tilt and telescoping steering wheel. In addition to this wonder, power-adjustable seat belts and chromatic rearview mirrors were also firsts. The equipment list was massive, as the LS 400 pampered its owners.
8 One Fantastic Engine
All new for the LS 400 the 4.0-liter V8 was an absolute peach. The 32-valve unit initially developed 250 hp. It was capable of getting the LS 400 to hit 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. It would run on to hit 155 mph. On the highway, the LS 400 was notably quieter than the competition.
In later cars, the power output increased to 290 hp. The power hike saw the 0-60 mph sprint time drop to a respectable 7 seconds. Thanks to VVT-i, these engines also generated more torque and provided better fuel economy, solidifying the car's appeal further.
7 Built To Last
Since the release of the Lexus LS 400, not one replacement gearbox has ever been sold by Toyota. Now, that says a lot about the build quality. When someone says an LS 400 is for life, they mean it. The LS 400 will no doubt outlast its owner.
Even beaten and abused, an LS 400 refuses to die. They will pile on high mileage with ease. The LS 400 has won notable awards for being one of the most reliable cars ever crafted. Its engine is almost unbreakable. Even the electrics refuse to fail prematurely.
6 Flagship Vehicle, Giveaway Price
Looking to pull in buyers, the Lexus LS 400 went on sale at the bargain price of $35,000. That was vastly cheaper than its rivals, for a far superior product. The originally intended price had been a ridiculous $25,000. This, however, was increased due to poor change rates.
On the secondhand market today, an LS 400 can be bought for peanuts. Driveable high mileage cars start at just $1,500. Even with these, everything still works. Hand over $5,000 and you will get a car that rivals the best on offer today for comfort. It's a no-brainer.
5 Rival Jealously
To say the Lexus LS 400 ruffled a few feathers is an understatement. The cars of German rivals were left bruised by the luxury and price. American competitors couldn't match the build quality. The LS 400 wiped the floor with everything and redefined the luxury car market.
As a modern classic, it still does the business. Buying anything else just brings about maintenance concerns. No other luxury sedan can offer the reliability or longevity of an LS 400. As investments go, it will not hurt your wallet with repair costs.
4 It's A Generational Thing
It's hard to describe the LS 400 as a pretty car. Its slab-like appearance firmly anchors it as an aged machine. Yet, with the passing of time and fashion, it's still a sought-after car, respected by the older generation, while recognized as retro and cool by the younger.
The Lexus LS 400 has an awesome street presence when modified. Applying modern tuning techniques transforms the car. A straight-through exhaust also makes it sound awesome. This is a classic that, once modded, will still turn heads when it appears at street meets.
3 Just A Smooth Operator
It would have been more fitting for Lexus to have named the LS 400 the Smooth. Every aspect of the car just oozes this characteristic. From the smooth-riding air suspension to the smooth power delivery of the engine. Even the bodywork was aerodynamically smooth.
Living with an LS 400 also underlines its smooth qualities. The trunk is enormous, it swallows luggage without fuss. The seats are some of the most comfortable in the business. Each control, switch, or button is beautifully weighted. A smooth approach, from a smooth brand.
2 Still An Impressive Machine
The final generation of LS 400 had close to 300 hp under the hood. That's still an impressive number today. Very few modern cars can boast about reliability like an LS 400. Combine this with a few off-the-shelf modifications and an LS 400 becomes a beast.
Turbo kits will bestow a reliable 350 hp on the LS 400. However, these engines have been seen to make over 2000 hp. So, depending on the investment potential, power is just a number. Throw a little nitrous into the mix, and you get a demonic sedan that will kill supercars.
1 Surprisingly Sparse Supply
In America, the Lexus LS 400 was one of the top-selling luxury sedans. Its low price and impressive equipment list drew in buyers. Over time, its reputation for quality cemented it as a class leader. It was a car that came from nowhere and rocketed to the top.
In Europe, things were slightly different. A smaller network of dealers and a lower brand image hampered its chances on the market, so secondhand cars are harder to find. Those Europeans who experience the LS 400 tend to remain brand loyal, praising its abilities.