New Lexus IS350-You guys see the performance figures for that baby?

There are many modified Lexus cars that will spank a stock AMG, but absolutely none that can do it stock...not even close. I will admit that it is cheaper to modify a Lexus then an AMG specifiaclly because the Japanese are so competitive in the after market arena versus Europeans. You have lots of choices of companies for anything from suspension to transmission to engine versus the AMG...hence the prices.
The IS350 is not in the same category as the C32/C55/M3/S4...they would have to introduce a tuned 1UZ-FE V8 to the IS to make it comparable (much like RMM did with their one-off IS430 for SEMA). I believe they will introduce manual with the car. Also, the car will cost in the mid 40's fully loaded.
Is there another 4-Door, high powered (300+hp), 6-speed manual car available right now other than the M5, S4 and CTS-V? I think this segment has been looked over. I love my C55, but man would I love it with a 6-speed.
M5 - Too Expensive and bulky
S4 - Too slow
CTS-V - Too cheesy, it's a caddilac.
There are many modified Lexus cars that will spank a stock AMG, but absolutely none that can do it stock...not even close. I will admit that it is cheaper to modify a Lexus then an AMG specifiaclly because the Japanese are so competitive in the after market arena versus Europeans. You have lots of choices of companies for anything from suspension to transmission to engine versus the AMG...hence the prices.
The IS350 is not in the same category as the C32/C55/M3/S4...they would have to introduce a tuned 1UZ-FE V8 to the IS to make it comparable (much like RMM did with their one-off IS430 for SEMA). I believe they will introduce manual with the car. Also, the car will cost in the mid 40's fully loaded.
I had the honor to drive a IS350 yesturday, my local lexus dealer had one that was on display for yesturday only (they move this car to all the dealers before it was actually for sale). I knew someone there and they let me go for a drive with them. Qucik car, doesn't feel like my C55, but its quick. The interior is a bit weird and almost cheap to me. As good as it is, i still hate japenese cars.
Last edited by Marktini; Sep 9, 2005 at 03:04 PM.

The new IS could come with the 3UZ used in the current LS/GS but you never know if that will happen (I doubt it)...the biggest hope for Toyota is the launch of the new "Supra" with a possible F1 inspired V10 @ 500HP or the Hybrid GS450 as a direct competitor to the E55 (or similar cars)...which I don't see happening with the launch of the 6.3l engine and possible FI on top of that.
Remember that Lexus's biggest asset is the fact that their cars are "very" reliable and comfortable. I don't think they want to go chasing after BMW's M, MB's AMG, Audi's RS, etc... since they are in this constant horsepower war, especially using their entry-level car...that would eat up sales from the GS300 and 430...especially with an increased price point.
I do think that the '07 car year will be incredible with lot's of performers from many companies besides AMG, M, RS...Nissan is coming out with the new Skyline GT, Toyota's Supra, etc...
The Best of Mercedes & AMG




