The Lexus LS 400 returned for its second year in 1991. All that had changed from the prior year was a slight adjustment of the brakes to improve the feel of the pedal. According to driver feedback, there was not much room for improvement. Lexus continued to market the LS as competition for the BMW 7-Series and the Mercedes S500-Class. Along with a smooth and quiet ride, the LS 400 also offered abundant power. The 4.0-liter V8 engine provided the 3,900-pound sedan with 250 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Weight and power tugged down on fuel efficiency, with the LS achieving 18 mpg in city driving and 23 on the highway. The 0 to 60 time was considerably fast for a full-size sedan, at 7.9 seconds. Very powerful brakes halted the LS from 60 mph in just under 130 feet. Every LS 400 was rear-wheel drive, and all were available with only a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Many owners have been behind the wheel of their LS 400 for up to 15 years now, with reports of up to 380,000 miles. Most describe the car's maintenance needs as routine (tune-ups, oil change, alignments, brake work), and they also admit some astonishment at finding that level of reliability in a luxury car. Used LS 400 shoppers should note that the optional Nakamichi sound system is a significant upgrade over the mediocre stock stereo, and it is well worth seeking out an LS that is properly equipped.