1992 Lexus ES 300

In 1992, the Lexus entry-level series was re-badged as the ES 300, thanks to a larger engine.  The previous ES 250 was widely criticized for its thorough resemblance to the Toyota Camry, despite its higher sticker price and attempt to compete with European luxury sedans.  Certainly, the first ES was quite similar to the Toyota, save the larger V-6 and some additional interior and exterior adjustments.  However, this second generation ES began the long process of setting the two further apart.  For this new model, driver-side airbag and ABS were now standard.
While the exterior appearance was largely unchanged for the new model, the ES 300 had bulked up a bit.  The 3,362 pound sedan was also now powered by a more potent engine.  The new 3.0 liter V-6 produced 185 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.  This 29 horse boost over the previous V-6 shaved about half a second off the 0-60 time, bringing down to 8.6 seconds.  The ES traveled the quarter mile in 16.6 seconds.  Like before, all ESs were front wheel drive which may have hindered the sports sedan feel a bit through tight turns.  Despite some additional weight and power, fuel efficiency remained in the same range at 19/25 mpg for the manual and 18/24 for the automatic.
Despite the manufacturer's claim that the ES requires premium fuel, many drivers report that it runs fine on regular unleaded.  The ES engine was designed to respond more readily to higher grades, but time has determined that they are not essential.  By now, some drivers have sat behind the wheel of their ES 300 for over a decade, and many are still pushing them beyond 15,000 miles per year.  Do the math.  While the ES got panned for inheriting the Camry's lack of character, drivers of less reliable European options are all too aware that 'character' can have a double meaning.  In addition to its silenced ride and comfortable cabin, the ES is marked by its reliability.