Lexus LS 400: model overview and owner reviews

Lexus LS 400 is a car that was developed by the Japanese in the middle of the 80s. True, in the series it was released only in 1989. Prior to this, for four years, the project was improved and tested. The machine was successful. She stood in a row with premium sedans, which were produced by BMW and Mercedes-Benz. So, what are the features of this car?

Idea

Lexus LS 400 appeared at the same time, when the brand "Lexus" appeared. In general, this event has a very interesting story. It all began with the fact that in 1983, experts of the concern "Toyota" decided to conduct some research. They wanted to find out which cars are most like and, accordingly, are bought by Americans. It turned out that many US residents, not looking at patriotism, would like to own a sedan of a representative class. It was these cars that were produced by the Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac concerns. Therefore, the management of Toyota decided that it's time to create a new brand. So appeared Lexus. The name was chosen such that it was associated with the word "lux".

In 1989, the world was introduced to the car Lexus LS 400. The car was shown at the Auto Show in Detroit. It's safe to say that the success was overwhelming. For the first year, 64,000 copies of the model were sold. And in 1990, the supply of cars to Europe began.

Design Features

It should be noted that the "Lexus" was offered exclusively in the body sedan. During the whole production period the model was twice restyled. For the first time - in 1993. The second time was in 1999. At the same time, the last restyling brought more changes to the look of the car. The machine lost the oblong orange "turn signals". They replaced the fog lights.

By the way, externally Lexus LS 400, the photo of which is presented above, is similar in profile to the "Mercedes" made in the body of W140 and W126. And it's no accident. After all, designers tried their best to make the image of the Japanese novelty as "European" as possible. And with whom they were to take an example, how not from the most successful manufacturer of business sedans? By the way, if you look closer to the models of recent years, you can see 10 sensors Parktronic.

Interior

What can you tell us about Lexus LS 400 interior? The first thing to note is the attention to the wide doors. They were made so as to facilitate the landing. Looking at the chairs, we can say with confidence - this model is oriented to the US market. In the seats there is no pronounced lateral support. But they are equipped with memory settings, like mirrors and steering wheel. An interesting feature: as soon as a person removes the key from the ignition lock, the steering wheel goes a little deeper and rises, so that the driver's landing becomes more simple.

It should be noted that the model was offered only with one level of equipment. However, it has everything that can come in handy. In addition, you could order, perhaps, a hatch and air conditioning for the rear passengers. So to speak, separate climate control.

Another of the features can be noted that the parking brake is activated by the foot lever, and not by hand. The developers decided to dwell on this option, because they wanted to create a model that the Americans would like.

In 1998, the basic equipment was replenished with four airbags and a Pioner music system. Although, if the potential buyer had a desire, the model was complemented by another, better quality - Nakamichi.

Specifications

For the very first in the history of "Lexus" was offered only one version of the engine. But he was worthy of higher praise. After all, it was a gasoline V-shaped 8-cylinder engine of 4 liters! And he produced 235 horsepower. It is worth recalling that the production of the model started in the late 80's. So many then impressed the Lexus LS 400. The specifications for that time were really impressive.

Thanks to this engine, the car accelerated to "hundreds" in 7.9 seconds. Its maximum speed was 241 km / h. True, in 1993 the motor was decided to improve. The power was brought to 265 liters. S., And acceleration to reduce to 7.5 s.

In 1998, the engine was perfected for the third and last time. After this modernization, the engine began to produce 294 liters. from. And the "Lexus" with this engine under the hood could score 100 km / h in just 6.9 seconds. It is interesting that the power units were equipped with additional hydraulic compensators.

Operation and feedback of motorists

What do people who own a rare car like the Lexus LS 400 say? The feedback of the owners is mostly positive. The main thing is to follow certain rules concerning car care, and then it will serve as much as it has already existed.

People claim that spark plugs are better to change once in 20,000 kilometers. A new timing belt along with the rollers is enough to install once in 100,000 km. The operation together with the spare parts will cost about 300 dollars.

It is recommended to pay special attention to the coolant. We must ensure that it is always clean. Otherwise, the pump will quickly fail. Replacement will cost a lot of money. In fact, almost all the details - whether it's understated springs Lexus LS 400 or pump - are enough. The car is rare, especially in Russia, so it is better to monitor its condition than to look for spare parts afterwards.

The checkpoint of the model is reliable. After every 40,000 kilometers it is necessary to change the oil in them. And in the rear axle gearbox - too. By the way, the above was said about the springs. This applies to the suspension. If a person has a car with a spring structure - good, it is very reliable, unlike the pneumatic, which began to complete the model since 1997.

Wheel bearings, shock absorbers, stabilizer legs, steering rods and rake - all this nurses at 200,000 kilometers. But the brake pads need to be replaced for a new time of 40,000 km. What about the disks? You need to buy new ones after 120 thousand kilometers of run.

Cost

Many people would like to take over such a legendary car. And there is an opportunity, since ads for the sale of the very first "Lexus" exist. The main thing is that the machine itself is in a well-maintained condition. It is quite possible to find a car for about 300 thousand rubles. For such a price, you can buy a mid-90s model with a 4-liter 196-horsepower engine, and even an optional sunroof. Of course, there are more expensive versions. And there are also cheaper ones. In general, the most important thing is to check the car for quality and grooming before buying. This can be done in any service station.