So, as Shane.Trammal seems to guess as well:



It seems that, while considering an IS300 (Can be had for ~$15k) for a spacey, luxury, yet also fun car with space for my real estate needs (I'm a new agent, woot!) as a good idea...I've had thoughts of getting the (IMO Better looking) Rx-8.



Anyone here with an Rx-8 have a chance to drive an IS? How do they compare handling wise? MPG (what have you been getting?) ? Space?



Also, Ito talked of weak Tranny's in the 8, and I've read of some small problems...are most actually small time problems? Given the idea that my 8 wouldn't be tracked or driven hard (No 1/4 launches, etc)...is it worth the extra $ over the IS?



Any help is greatly appreciated...

 

Well, considering I have wrecked an IS300 and own a rx-8 I would say that I like them both. IS300 will go alot faster than an 8 on the street with the right turbo. RX-8 is a awesome looking car and now has turbo kits So I would say do you want a sporty car or a luxury mobile.



-Ryan





I would get an IS300 if I did it over again

 

If you were to do it over again I would say that you should of just kept your old car..

 

I had the transmission problem you mentioned Phoenix, it was no big deal, fixed under warranty. (Saved my *** $4500)

 

good thread, any more info is appreciated if anyone has it. if you dont have it thanks anyway.

 

i know for me, and i think for phoenix too, these cars wont be getting turbos or performance mods (other than maybe a cai or chip). mine is for my gf to dd and his is for real estate which means hell be carrying around old ladies. in stock form which is the winner>?

 

I've owned both. I actually traded my IS in for an 8 ( a decision which I now regret ) The IS felt quicker to me, probably because of the torque. The ride is smoother, but again its more of a luxury sport sedan so that is expected. The IS has a really good suspension setup, pretty solid tranny, memory seats, a real climate control system, better stereo, gets better gas mileage and a bunch more.



I just loved the look of the 8 and more than anything it was an impulsive decision to buy in the first place. But like I said if I had to do it all over again I would have kept the is as the daily driver along side my FD.

 

Yea, this would be my DD alongside my FD. I am leaning towards the IS because it seems to be more of what I want, for less.



How Good/Bad is the handling of the IS compared to the Rx8? Your impressions?



I just like how the Rx8 looks tons more sporty...kinda odd how BOTH cars come with (Lame) altezza-like factory rear lights...

 

where can you get a IS300 for $15000?



you talking used? Not a fair to compare a used Lexus to a new RX-8..BUT



I will always stand by my comment that a Lexus is a much more reliable and hold its resale value far better.

 

Driven both numerous times and I'd take an IS300 any day over an 8 for all of the above reasons