Lexus IS300--Any insight?

[Ocean-Grown 86]

Some long and complicated conditions require that I part ways with my FR-S and move on to something else. I'm now looking at the IS300 with a 5-speed manual. For any fellow twin owners who have also owned or own an IS300, I have a few questions:

- How does the IS300 compare with a twin? Handling wise? Driving feel? I know the IS300 won't be as crisp or as rewarding, hence it isn't a sports car. However, I've heard that it is at least fun to drive.
- How was the ownership experience? Maintenance and costs of consumables? Ease to work on? Reliability? Aftermarket support?
- What should I be wary of? Most examples have trekked some 100k miles or more.
- Anything else I should be concerned with? Alternatives?

For the record, I want to do autocross and drift with this car.

Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks much!

[fitcious]

I had a 2002 is300 stick shift. I loved the car and its looks. Very reliable and regular maintenance was just a bit higher than normal. Engine is super robust and the driving feel is fun but you still sit pretty high compare to FRS, but the seats are much better materials. There are lots of after market parts but they are pricey.

The only thing I hated was the mpg....I was on average getting 20 with mix and easy driving.

How much are they going for now? Mine had the navigation and oem sports smoked badges and rims. I sold the car in 2009 with 50000 miles for $14000.

If you can find one, get one. One of the things you have to do with high mileage is the timing belt.

The is300 is prone to have the dash 'melting' in the hot sun. If you google it you will see a lot of ppl have that problem. In addition, as much as the shifter ball looks unique, it will give you 3rd degree burns on a hot summer day.

[SloS14]

I had an IS300 automagic. Wat fitcious said. I hated putting gas in that thing but it was an absolute pleasure to drive. They're a lot of car for the money.

[MokSpeed]

Though it isn't a true "sports car" don't be fooled. Mine has 180,000 miles and is still running strong. As long as you take care of the car and motor, then the car will take care of you and your transportation needs. As @LSxJunkie said it is a very thirsty motor! It actually is a very fun car to drive. Don't be deceived by it's four doors. If you plan on drifting the car then plan on saving up because it sounds like you will either be doing a NA-T build or swapping the motor out all together for a GTE ESPECIALLY since you're getting a 5 speed. That being said who wants to own a NA 2JZ anyways?

[torqdork]

I autocrossed and tracked my IS300 M/T. With a minimal investment in tires, TRD sway bars and race alignment, it becomes well balanced. The low end torque really helps corner exit and at 3,250 lbs. it isn't a lightweight but not bad, either.

The one option you should look for is the Torsen. I think it was only available in '02-'03 MY. It makes a huge difference in autocross, a must-have, really. Only about 10% had that option. I've forgotten the correct code on the build plate but is300.net and google should help.

I got about 16mpg on premium. Maintenance was straightforward and parts reasonable for DIY'ers. Never had a breakdown, the car was bulletproof and about as much fun you can have in a grocery getter.