Wednesday, November 01, 2006 - 04:59 pm, by: Adam Sanders(Abz)
Hi guys,
I just thought i would write a quick squizz about the differences I have noticed between these cars.
Initially I paid 14000 for an immaculate Celsior. It rode and felt beautiful. I fell in love with the easy going steering and the ride smoothness.
After selling it recently I was on a venture to buy a toyota aristo however that fell through after nearly every example was crap or had problems. The immaculate ones went for big dollars and never had the options I wanted.
After realising I did not want any car I was just browsing and browsing ads and forums. I went from XR6 Turbos to Audis and Mercs. Nothing I was happy with.
After seeing some 1998 LS400s going for about 30-35 grand I was very intrigued. I read up about the differences between these and the series one model.
This can be found on the net but mainly it had a whole new front end, VVTI engine, improved everything and a nice list of options ie HIDS, GPS etc.
After looking at one rather dodgy one (Annandale) I found one in Victoria which seemed perfect.
After negotiations and dealings I finally took ownership.
My initial reaction when I first saw it in person was wow. The looks were amazing. The whole rear end similar to the old ones but the front end still looked current model.
After hopping in and starting her up my first main difference was the steering. I thought this is no way as light and floaty as the 89 cels. Initally i didnt like it but as soon as I got used to it it made me appreciate how tight the car was and the more control I had. The moonroof appears larger and has one touch auto back which is very impressive.
Next was the steering wheel. Half Wood, half leather. seems weird but is amazing. This wood has about 400 layers of laquer on it and is smooth. It is excellent because sometimes you feel like the nice cool smooth wood feel and then you can switch to the soft leather at anytime.
Then turn on the stereo and wow what a difference than the series 1. Perfect sound and bass. It is hard to describe how good it is because the 89 model was still excellent but this is just a step above.
The whole car feels smoother and lighter (probably due to better condition suspension plus technology advancements). The power is on tap at anytime although when you put the foot down it takes off like a rocket. A claimed 0-100 of 6.3 seconds this car flies.
Next is the dash. The tacho are all simiar however the information bar keeps you occupied with heaps of different functions. stuff like Tank average, current average of petrol used measured in ltres per 100kms, Kms remaining in tank, kms since last refuel are all good fiddly features accessed from your steering wheel.
In addition the Self levelling HIDS are really impressive, the GPS is a fun gadget and is very helpful when you actually need to know where your going, spilt airconditioning front / rear and driver/passenger side also.
4 airbags for safety, valet kit, first aid kit, tool kit really makes this car a steal for 25k.
For those thinking how nice the celsiors are do yourself a favor and go test drive a 1998 model ls400. I am a pig and this car IS the
Thursday, November 16, 2006 - 09:30 pm, by: Donald Lum(Don_lum)
I will have to agree. My 1998 LS is a dream to drive and would have to say that it is the best driving car I have ever owned. Very solid feel but still agile. As much power as anyone would need, although, more is always better but that would take the fuel economy below acceptability. I'm getting 7 to 8 l/100ks on the highway and split driving between highway/city is averaging 12. Have now owned it since last March and have had to do nothing but put fuel in the tank and the key in the ignition. Just now due for the next service.
I'm looking forward to someday owning a LS 430 after I'm had this one for a while. I'm hooked.