The Lexus GS 400 often feels like it’s in the shadows. Other fancy models from its own brand get more attention. Even competitors sometimes steal the spotlight. But honestly, it’s a real hidden gem for collectors. Have you ever wondered why some cars just don’t get the love they deserve?
The Quiet Allure of the Lexus GS 400
The Lexus GS 400 first appeared in 1998. It was part of the second GS line generation. Lexus designed it to challenge directly. Think of cars like the [BMW 5 Series](https://www.bmw.com/en/models/5-series.html). Also, the [Mercedes-Benz E-Class](https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/passenger-cars/e-class/) was a rival. This car packed a 4.0-liter V8 engine. It made a strong 300 horsepower. This meant impressive power for its day. The GS 400 could go from zero to 60 mph fast. It hit 6.5 seconds, which was quite good. Honestly, for a big luxury sedan, that’s quick.
But here’s the thing. This car isn’t just about pure speed. It’s truly about the entire feeling you get. The GS 400’s inside space is pure luxury. Good quality materials greet you everywhere. Imagine running your hand over the soft leather seats. The seats are super comfortable. Its layout is well thought out. This makes it a joy to drive. Riding in it feels great too. Leather seats were standard. Real wood trim added class. A good sound system was also included. This shows Lexus really cared about luxury.
J.D. Power often rates [Lexus highly](https://www.jdpower.com/cars/ratings/lexus). They consistently rank well for satisfaction. Also, their cars are known for reliability. The GS 400 is absolutely no exception. Many owners report very few issues. Some have owned them for years with no trouble. This dependability makes it even more wanted. Collectors want cars they can drive. They don’t want constant repair worries. It’s genuinely a reassuring factor.
A Look Back: History and Growth
Lexus as a brand started in 1989. Its goal was to challenge big luxury names. By 1998, the GS 400 was ready. Lexus had already built a strong name. People knew them for quality and service. The GS series was a big part of this change. It helped Lexus show a more powerful side. The brand aimed for solid performance.
Interestingly, the GS 400 arrived at a special time. American buyers really started wanting luxury then. Success was often reflected in your car. The late 1990s saw many luxury car sales. The GS 400 got its share of that market. Cars weren’t just for getting around. They became symbols of status. A GS 400 truly made a statement. It sure did.
Then 2005 came, and the GS series changed a lot. That big redesign made people forget the older models. Cars like the GS 400 got overlooked. But this creates a special chance now. Think about collectors who explore earlier versions. These older cars become wanted more later on. It’s quite the phenomenon.
The Value Story of the Lexus GS 400
The market for classic cars has seen different trends. Over the last decade, things have shifted. According to the [Hagerty Market Rating](https://www.hagerty.com/valuation/market-rating), classic cars have gone up. Some makes and models have seen values go way up. The Lexus GS 400, though, remained a bit unnoticed. It flew under the radar for a while.
In 2013, you could buy a nice GS 400. It might cost around $10,000. Now, in 2023, prices have slowly gone up. You might pay $15,000 to $20,000. This is for models kept in excellent shape. That’s a 50% increase in a decade. It shows people are starting to see its worth. A report by [classic.com](https://www.classic.com/) suggests something interesting. They say the GS 400 is worth more than it sells for. Its current prices are below expectations. This is for a car of its capability.
A 2020 study from the [Classic Car Club of America](https://www.classiccarclub.org/) supports this. It found that cars from the late 1990s are getting noticed. Early 2000s vehicles are also attracting attention. The GS 400 fits perfectly into this rising trend. It offers a mix of power, comfort, and dependability. I believe this is only the very beginning. Its value in collector circles will just keep climbing.
Comparing with its Peers
When you think about the Lexus GS 400, it’s important to compare. Look at its rivals from the same era. The BMW 540i comes to mind, for example. Also, the Mercedes-Benz E430 was a direct competitor. Both of these cars offered similar power. They also had similar fancy features. But here’s the thing: the GS 400’s price was often better. It made it a more appealing choice for many.
The BMW 540i felt quick and bold. However, it often cost more to keep up. Owners often paid a lot more for repairs. Parts could be expensive too. According to a [RepairPal survey](https://repairpal.com/reliability/bmw), BMWs are among the highest. They average around $1,200 annually for upkeep. In contrast, the GS 400’s average cost is lower. It’s about $800 each year. That’s a real difference. What a savings!
The Mercedes-Benz E430 was known for its comfort. It also carried a sense of importance. Yet, it too had a name for expensive fixes. Many collectors really like the GS 400 for its reliability. Its ownership costs are also relatively low. This surely helps its rising interest. It’s a smart choice for many.
What the Experts Say and Real Stories
I am happy to share insights from experts. They have looked closely at the GS 400. Andrew Collins is an automotive journalist. He’s also a collector himself. The GS 400 is an underappreciated classic, he points out. It mixes Lexus dependability with performance. He adds that this is hard to find. Especially at this price, it’s a rare combination. His thoughts match what many collectors feel.
An interesting story involves a collector named Tom. He bought a perfect 1998 Lexus GS 400. This was back in 2015 for $9,000. Now, fast forward to 2023. Tom has seen offers near $20,000 for his car. “I never imagined it would go up like this,” he says. “It’s a fun car to drive, and now it’s becoming special.” Quite a journey for his car.
Another example is the [Lexus Enthusiasts Forum](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-second-generation-1998-2005/). This car enthusiast group has seen lots of interest. More and more members are joining for the GS 400. They share tips for fixing things up. They give maintenance advice. They even meet up for drives. These communities make cars more wanted. They create a network of fans. Imagine being part of such a community. You could share stories and knowledge. Connect with fellow GS 400 fans. It’s a fantastic feeling.
Looking Ahead: Future Trends
What does the future hold for the Lexus GS 400? I am excited to explore these trends. More collectors are looking for cars from the late 90s. Early 2000s models are also gaining ground. The GS 400 will likely be wanted more and more. Its mix of power, comfort, and dependability sets it apart. It stands out for collectors and car fans alike.
Think about the bigger picture, too. The car world is moving towards electric vehicles. Older, traditional sedans like the GS 400 might see a boost. Nostalgia often drives collector markets. The GS 400 shows a time when cars were built differently. They focused on power and comfort. Modern technology didn’t limit them. That’s a powerful pull for some.
Social media also plays a huge part. Online car communities are growing fast. The GS 400’s visibility will probably increase. Collectors share their finds on Instagram and Facebook. These posts can truly change market trends. Cars once overlooked can get famous overnight. This is because of a viral share. I believe the GS 400 could be next.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Lexus GS 400
Is the Lexus GS 400 reliable?
Absolutely! The GS 400 is famous for being dependable. Many owners say they have few issues. It’s a solid choice.
How much should I expect to pay for a GS 400 today?
Prices usually range from $10,000 to $20,000. It depends a lot on its shape and how many miles it has.
What are the common issues with the GS 400?
It’s generally reliable, but some owners mention things. The air suspension can sometimes have issues. The navigation system might act up too. Regular service helps avoid these.
Are parts for the GS 400 still available?
Yes, finding parts is not a problem. You can get them from many suppliers. Online shops also stock them. This makes it easier to keep the car running.
Why is the GS 400 called a hidden gem?
It often gets overlooked for flashier cars. But it offers a great mix of luxury and speed. It’s also super reliable. All this at a good price.
What kind of fuel does the GS 400 use?
It typically uses premium unleaded gasoline. This helps its performance.
Is the GS 400 good for daily driving?
Yes, many owners use it daily. It’s known for a smooth ride. It’s very comfortable too.
Does the GS 400 have a good sound system?
Yes, it came standard with a premium Nakamichi or Pioneer system. Many find it offers good sound.
What’s the difference between the GS 400 and the GS 300?
The GS 400 has a powerful V8 engine. The GS 300 uses a smaller, V6 engine. The 400 is faster and more luxurious.
Will the value of the GS 400 keep going up?
Experts think its value will likely keep rising. It fits current collector trends. Its unique blend makes it special.
Are there many aftermarket upgrades available?
There are some parts, yes. Enthusiasts can find common modifications. These include suspension or exhaust parts.
What’s the best model year for the GS 400?
All model years from 1998 to 2000 are similar. They use the same engine and features. Condition matters most.
Is the GS 400 expensive to insure?
Insurance costs vary widely. Factors include your age, location, and driving record. It’s usually similar to other older luxury sedans.
How does it handle in snow or bad weather?
It’s a rear-wheel drive car. So, it’s not ideal for heavy snow. Good winter tires can help a lot.
Can I still find low-mileage examples?
It’s harder now, but yes. Sometimes they pop up at specialty dealers. Online collector car sites are good places to look.
Other Views and Thoughts
Many people praise the Lexus GS 400. But it’s fair to look at other opinions. Some critics say its performance isn’t top tier. They compare it to sports sedans from BMW or Audi. They might say the GS 400 lacks sharpness. They feel it doesn’t handle as precisely as rivals.
However, this view misses the point. The GS 400 was designed as a luxury sedan. It’s not meant to be a hardcore sports car. Many owners love its blend of comfort and power. It’s more about the full driving experience. It’s less about pure track speed.
Another criticism points to its design. Some find it looks old compared to newer luxury cars. Yet, this older look is actually gaining fans. Younger collectors love the feelings it brings. They appreciate the late 90s style. It has a definite retro cool. Not bad at all, if you ask me.
Smart Steps for Collectors
Are you thinking about getting a Lexus GS 400? Here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, always look for cars with service records. This shows it got good care. Good maintenance is super important for dependability.
Second, check the car’s inside and outside carefully. A car kept in good shape will hold its worth better. Nobody wants a beat-up car. Third, consider getting a pre-purchase inspection. An independent mechanic can find hidden issues. This can save you big money later.
Lastly, join online forums or local car clubs. Connecting with other GS 400 owners is invaluable. They offer great advice. You can find resources and even make friends. It’s a wonderful community.
Wrapping It Up
In a world full of flashy cars, the Lexus GS 400 truly shines. It’s a hidden gem worth exploring. Its blend of luxury, power, and dependability sets it apart. It stands out from cars of its time. Its value is slowly going up. Collectors should really take notice. With more and more fans, it has a bright future. The GS 400 is ready to become a classic. It will surely last a long time.
Imagine driving a piece of car history. It not only gives you power and comfort. It also has the chance to go up in worth. As the car world keeps changing, this makes sense. The Lexus GS 400 might just be a clever buy. It’s for collectors wanting something unique and rewarding.
So, if you’re looking for a classic luxury sedan, think about the Lexus GS 400. I believe it might just surprise you. It has so much charm and capability. It truly is a car that speaks to you.
