Cheap Forever Car: 1999 Lexus LS 400 with 117k Miles
For November 30, 2023, our used car find is this clean, two-owner 1999 Lexus LS 400 sedan with 117k miles and lots of recent maintenance. This example is offered by a private seller on Craigslist in Charlotte, North Carolina, for $9,950 or best offer.
Here’s what makes this one special.
Introduction
By now, we all know the story of how Lexus shocked the world in 1989 with its superb S-Class knockoff, the LS 400. What we don’t talk about much is how the automaker kept refining the model throughout its eleven-year production run (1990-2000) before its replacement by the all-new LS 430 in 2001.
Those changes include a substantial reengineering for the 1995 model year, which gave the LS 400 a stiffer body structure, a longer wheelbase, and a quieter and roomier interior. That was followed by a notable 1998 update that added variable valve timing to its legendary 1UZ-FE V8 engine, boosting output to 290 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque; it also swapped the old four-speed automatic transmission for a more responsive and fuel-efficient five-speed unit.
As good as the original car was, the LS 400 from its final three model years (1998-2000) is a vastly superior machine.
The Listing
This particular LS 400, sporting a relatively low 117,000 miles and just two owners from new, is one of the cleaner specimens we’ve seen in some time. Its original Antique Sterling Metallic factory paint still looks sharp. Likewise, its gray leather seats show very little wear. This LS also boasts a host of recent maintenance, including a new battery, power steering pump, shocks, brakes, and a fresh oil service. No need to worry about the timing belt, either, since that was taken care of in 2021 at 98,000 miles.
In the words of the seller:
1999 Lexus LS 400 117k original miles, im the 2nd owner. Selling to finance my daughter’s upcoming wedding. I’ve replaced: shocks/struts, power steering pump, new battery, brakes/rotors, recent oil change. 0 rust Georgia/NC owned. AC is freezing cold, sunroof works. Very clean, non smoker no pets. No trades or online offers. Clean title in hand. Come see it. Asking 9500 or best cash in hand offer. Charlotte NC 28216
Very nice Pre-Certified 1999 Lexus LS 400 (with certificate)
Will come with new wheel speed sensors as needed
Timing belt/water pump at 98k
2 master key fobs, all original manuals
The only niggle we have with this one is the optional factory navigation screen that’s cluttering up the otherwise wonderfully simple and old-school dash. It’s certainly not a dealbreaker, though.
A well-kept example of one of the best-made cars in the world for less than ten grand strikes us as a remarkable bargain. Find it on Craigslist HERE while you still can.
Details & Specs
- 1999 Lexus LS 400 (UCF20)
- 117,200 miles
- 4.0-liter DOHC V8 engine (1UZ-FE)
- 290 horsepower
- 300 lb-ft of torque
- five-speed automatic transmission
- rear-wheel drive
- 3,890 pounds
- Antique Sterling Metallic exterior
- Agate (gray) leather interior
- JT8BH28F6X0164979
Additional Photos
