vs Lexus IS300?
 

http://images02.olx.ca/ui/2/85/47/25167847_1.jpg

http://www.autospies.com/images/user...%20Drifter.jpg
215 hp
Curb Weight: 3255 lbs
18-25 mpg

...and the 2JZ.

I'm starting to consider getting one of these guys in 5-spd manual, autocrossing it, and eventually getting a later-model BRZ or FR-S. They run about $10,000 to $15,000 for a 2001-2005 in good shape.

Good idea or bad idea?

I can't wait to see the difference between that and an frs/brz. I've had one, tracked it, was GREAT, very impressive (it's still pretty much a 4 door supra). For autocrossing though, it may be quite heavy. You'll need a very good set of coilovers and a model with the LSD from factory at least.

I loved that car, wish I never sold it and i'm hoping the frsbrz will make me forget it.

If you can find a 5 speed car...

^^ Indeed. I've been looking for a 5 speed for a while. Iv'e only found one that was in good shape but it was red. I hate red.

i stopped my quest for a 5speed IS300 a long time ago. Shit was Unicorn Status

I'm looking to get IS300 5MT or 06-07 WRX 5MT for a while before getting BRZ, but IS300 5MT is super rare and WRX is overpriced in my area.
I used to drive the IS300 AT model many times. Great car, fun ride, but not luxurious as it should be.

mmmm I've always found the IS300 sexy.

:lol: ^^^THIS

I've wanted this car for a couple years, was supposed to be my first car until my cuz who was selling it wrecked it. Oh wells.

I think the RS200 is a better comparison to the 86

The RS200 was the first Toyota car they claimed to be the 'spiritual successor' to the AE86. So perfect comparison?

It was also the car used to compare the weight and/or dynamics of the FT86 in one of the Japanese interviews, too.

Maybe they sold more 5MT's in Canada, because I have quite a few friends with them. Don't seem to be too unicorn to me.

Jeff

I may just look for a cheap auto and do a 1J swap with a 5speed. Ive done auto to manual swaps before and it's not too difficult.

boy do i miss my 01 IS300 :(

Standard IS300 have always been pretty rare from what I understand, as several other posters have noted. I've only seen a handful in person over the years. I think the IS300 would take better to mods than this boxer 4, but that's merely speculation.