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Help Me Choose!

1950 messages,  Last post on Nov 23, 2009 at 6:58 PM

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What is this discussion about? Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Maxima, Mazda MAZDA3, Nissan Altima, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Lexus IS 250, Acura TSX, Car Comparisons, Sedan

#1921 of 1950 2001 Lexus LS430 or 2009 Subaru Impreza? by kocho Sep 11, 2009 (9:20 pm)
I have a bit of trouble making up the mind. 2001 Lexus LS430 with 78K miles for 15500 or a brand new 2009 Subaru Impreza sports Wagon for 19500? Which is a better good for price? Lexus is luxury but 2001 model Subaru is standard shift but brandnew. I drive up to 10000 miles a year only. What do you think depending on your experience? I will be using the car only for city driving. Replies to this message: rsholland (Sep 12, 2009 4:39 am) luvfishing (Sep 12, 2009 3:59 pm) kocho (Sep 12, 2009 4:28 pm) kyfdx (Sep 13, 2009 7:15 am) 10years (Sep 13, 2009 9:23 am) luvfishing (Sep 13, 2009 4:52 pm) mrsincere7 (Nov 23, 2009 6:26 am) backy (Sep 13, 2009 6:26 am) kocho (Sep 19, 2009 5:40 am)
#1922 of 1950 Re: 2001 Lexus LS430 or 2009 Subaru Impreza? [kocho] by rsholland Sep 12, 2009 (4:39 am)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 11, 2009 9:20 pm) Wow, I don't think I could ever come up with a stranger vehicle comparison...   In any event, even though it's a Lexus, it's a rather old used one. That being the case, I'd have a mechanic check it over, as you don't know how well the car was maintained. I'd also get a CarFax on it to see if it's been in an accident.   Obviously the Lexus won't get the gas mileage of the Impreza, and it requires premium gas.   The Impreza will be much better in foul weather and bad roads (rain, snow, gravel, potholes, etc.), thanks to the AWD. Lastly, the Impreza will be more fun to drive (although a stick-shift could be a hassle in town), and is far more practical and flexible in terms of hauling stuff thanks to the 5-door configuration.   Bob
#1923 of 1950 How about 06 Lexus 430 vs new '10 Legacy by luvfishing Sep 12, 2009 (3:59 pm)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 11, 2009 9:20 pm) I was looking at a new Subaru Legacy and the dealer nearby was advertising an 06 Lexus 430 (Lexus certified) with 49K mile for $31,000. The Lexus price could probably haggled down a bit but I was surprised that the price was so close to the Legacy. So I started comparing the two. The Lexus has all the premium features (Levinson stereo, navigation, etc.) but no AWD. Lexus also has the 3 year 100K warranty.   Now I'm torn - as the Lexus is in very good condition and has a clean CarFax history report.   Never thought I would be comparing the two. The Subaru has the better handling but the plush, cushy ride (and quiet) of the Lexus is nice.   I must be getting old. Replies to this message: kocho (Sep 12, 2009 4:28 pm) kyfdx (Sep 13, 2009 7:15 am) 10years (Sep 13, 2009 9:23 am) luvfishing (Sep 13, 2009 4:52 pm) mrsincere7 (Nov 23, 2009 6:26 am)
#1924 of 1950 Going with Lexus by kocho Sep 12, 2009 (4:28 pm)
Replying to: luvfishing (Sep 12, 2009 3:59 pm) For me, I am choosing to go with 2001 Lexus although I could not afford as much as you. I prefer it as it will be better in long run for comfort with bells and whistles plus reliability. It's been fun driving Subaru but the thrill run out after a few months. I will miss the handling but will trade for comfort. Replies to this message: kyfdx (Sep 13, 2009 7:15 am) 10years (Sep 13, 2009 9:23 am) luvfishing (Sep 13, 2009 4:52 pm) mrsincere7 (Nov 23, 2009 6:26 am)
#1925 of 1950 Re: 2001 Lexus LS430 or 2009 Subaru Impreza? [kocho] by backy Sep 13, 2009 (6:26 am)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 11, 2009 9:20 pm) First, decide which car you would enjoy driving more. They will drive much differently, esp. auto vs. stick. If that is not a deciding factor for you, then think about whether you have the extra money to pay for repairs for the Lexus. They are reliable, but it's nearly 9 years old and when parts do break, especially the electronics, they can be very expensive to replace. OTOH, the Impreza has a full warranty for 3 years and powertrain for five years, so no worries about unexpected repairs for awhile.   If you live where snow and ice are found, the Impreza offers a huge advantage over the RWD Lexus. Also it has the convenience of a hatchback, which I find comes in very handy. Also easier to park, in all your city driving. (I find some garage spaces are tight even for a compact these days.)
#1926 of 1950 Re: Going with Lexus [kocho] by kyfdx HOST Sep 13, 2009 (7:15 am)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 12, 2009 4:28 pm) Also, consider financing costs..   Unless you are paying cash, I'd guess that a loan on a 9-yr old car that sells in the teens is going to come with a pretty high interest rate..   I have no doubt that the new Subaru will be cheaper to own, over whatever time period that you want to use... But, if you can afford it (meaning payment, maintenance, fuel, etc.. ), then get whatever you like best.
#1927 of 1950 Re: Going with Lexus [kocho] by 10years Sep 13, 2009 (9:23 am)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 12, 2009 4:28 pm) As good as the Lexus is the expense of its Premium fuel requirements shouldn’t be overlooked. Its City MPG is 16 so 10K miles a year at $3.25 is $2,031. For example compare that to the 23 City MPG for a 2010 Subaru Legacy with CVT on Regular at $3.00 is $1,304 per year. The difference is $727 saved each year just in fuel.   All these mechanical contraptions, new and used, have their pluses and minuses.   Good Luck.
#1929 of 1950 Re: Going with Lexus [kocho] by luvfishing Sep 13, 2009 (4:52 pm)
Replying to: kocho (Sep 12, 2009 4:28 pm) You really should be fine going with either vehicle. Both Lexus and Subaru have great reliability. I have had no problems with Subarus and my many friends with Lexus vehicles also swear by their reliability.   It really comes down to what vehicle better serves your needs -- both are great vehicles for their intended use.   I do agree that Subarus are very inexpensive to maintain and repair.   Good luck - both are vehicles that offer above average value for their customers compared to the competition.
#1930 of 1950 press request by kirstie_h HOST Sep 14, 2009 (6:24 am)
A reporter is looking to interview consumers for story who are currently in the market looking for a new vehicle. Please send your daytime phone number to ctalatiedmunds.com by Wednesday, September 16, 2009. Thanks, Chintan Corporate Communications Edmunds.com

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