1998 Lexus LS Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
By 1998, the smooth and quiet ride atop the Lexus reputation for reliability had delivered the LS 400 to the top of US luxury flagship...
By 1998, the smooth and quiet ride atop the Lexus reputation for reliability had delivered the LS 400 to the top of US luxury flagship sales. Still within its second generation, the LS received a new engine and some additional interior features. Also, a navigation system was available for the first time.
The new four cam 4.0 liter V-8 featured Toyota's Variable Valve Timing + intelligence technology. VVT+i boosted engine power, while lowering emissions and improving fuel efficiency. The LS's V-8 now produced 290 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, and it was paired with a new 5-speed automatic transmission. Lexus now claimed a 6.5 second 0-60 time for the LS, which meant that the new engine shaved one second off the prior time. Despite the LS's considerable bulk, it braked from 60 mph to a stop in just 118 feet. A new optional Vehicle Skid Control system provided some compensation for the rear wheel drive layout.
Aside from the new optional navigation system, most interior changes are subtle, like retractable headrests for example. On the outside, the grille, headlights, and taillights are all new. Sporting enthusiasts had occasionally faulted the LS for its seemingly distant relationship with the road. The soft and forgiving suspension and silent cabin limited some of the thrills that may be found in the Lexus GS sedans or SC coupes. However, the LS 400 has been marked by its serene cabin, delicate road manners, and outstanding craftsmanship. It was not a sports sedan, but neither were its more expensive German competitors, which were all being outsold.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1998 Lexus LS love its reliability, smooth ride, and luxurious features. Many appreciate the powerful V8 engine and well-built nature of the car. However, some drivers express concerns about poor fuel economy and high maintenance costs. While it excels in comfort and performance, a few find it lacks excitement in driving experience."
The luxury, features and power this car has for such an older car. Way before it’s time.
November 4, 2020I like the smooth ride and how quiet the car is. When I want to accelerate in a hurry, this LS400 is responsive. I can adjust the seat belt height, headrest, steering wheel position and seat to my individual comfort. Rear seat passengers enjoy the spacious legroom afforded the driver and front seat passenger. The car handles beautifully. I feel like I am enjoying a luxurious ride.
August 25, 2014The LS 400 was the prototype for all luxury cars, American and European, after put out on the market. The Japanese perfected this luxury engine ( cannot tell if it’s running from the cabin! Quietness is key), and accelerates into the horizon with a swiftness never experienced by any other ride. It can go extremely fast and is not recommended for teens for that very reason. Too bad they could not keep up with the expenses of creating this fantasy car ongoing, despite most initial sales going for around $75 K, and they stopped production in 2000. This was my forever car....owned several years and the consistency was unmatched. Despite aging, these cars do not feel it...they remain super smooth and glide as if on water even if they are well past 200K miles. Bring back the LS 400 Lexus!
April 23, 2023What owners say
The luxury, features and power this car has for such an older car. Way before it’s time.
November 4, 2020I like the smooth ride and how quiet the car is. When I want to accelerate in a hurry, this LS400 is responsive. I can adjust the seat belt height, headrest, steering wheel position and seat to my individual comfort. Rear seat passengers enjoy the spacious legroom afforded the driver and front seat passenger. The car handles beautifully. I feel like I am enjoying a luxurious ride.
August 25, 2014The LS 400 was the prototype for all luxury cars, American and European, after put out on the market. The Japanese perfected this luxury engine ( cannot tell if it’s running from the cabin! Quietness is key), and accelerates into the horizon with a swiftness never experienced by any other ride. It can go extremely fast and is not recommended for teens for that very reason. Too bad they could not keep up with the expenses of creating this fantasy car ongoing, despite most initial sales going for around $75 K, and they stopped production in 2000. This was my forever car....owned several years and the consistency was unmatched. Despite aging, these cars do not feel it...they remain super smooth and glide as if on water even if they are well past 200K miles. Bring back the LS 400 Lexus!
April 23, 2023It’s a great car as long as you take care of it it’ll take care of you
October 19, 2021Very smooth, quiet and powerful (V8) and handles very well for a big sedan. Extremely reliable. I always pay attention to the fluids and adhere to the maintenance schedule. Over the long haul, a LOT LESS than I'd spend on a comparable BMW. Best car I've ever had!
May 10, 2012Overall it's a good car fantastically built and engineered and has phenomenal reliability. It doesn't do any one thing exceptional it just does everything good. I have a deal on this car it's my new daily driver. Surprisingly quick 0-60 in 6.1 seconds 1/4 mile in 14.7 seconds so it's not a slouch. Some say it has fairly bland styling but in my opinion it's the best looking of the LS series. Cheap to buy maintenance if you don't do it yourself is fair. Not a fun car as a drivers car but very very relaxing for a daily driver.
July 3, 2010Just a great car that I have owned for 10 years! I wanted a car that I could spend less than $2,000 a year on, and this was it. I paid $13,500 in 2002 and put a paint job $1500 and replaced the starter twice $1500 or so..........and that was it! I have not sold it, but CarGurus say that it has a value of $3,500. $13,500 minus $3,500 is $10,000 for 10 years........I would say that I made my goal of not spending more than $2,000 a year on a car and look at the car that I drove.
October 26, 2012Horrible mileage. Very unreliable. Expensive parts. Very loud. Overall not a good car
February 9, 2022Love the idea of a V8 and yes its a good value... Missing little... IDK a supercharger? Lol. Compare it to a bmw 740iL, or a cadillac DTS
September 4, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $53,395 | Seating 5 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
