Cars and Bids Bargain of the Week: 2000 Lexus LX 470
New or used, the Land Cruiser is a well-respected choice of overlanders and off-roaders. But it’s not Toyota’s only reliable off-road SUV—and I’m not talking about the 4Runner. The Lexus LX has the Land Cruiser’s powertrain, platform, and off-road capability. And a 2000 LX 470 model is this week’s Cars and Bids bargain buy.
The 2000 Lexus LX 470 comes from one of the best Toyota Land Cruiser generations
So far, Toyota has released six generations of the Land Cruiser, Autoblog reports. And while they all have their own appeal, some of the best years for the Land Cruiser include the early 100-Series models. Specifically, the 2000-2004 model years, which, despite their age, still feel modern, Autoweek reports. Autotrader refers to the 100-Series models as “one of the most unbreakable SUVs ever made.”
By 2000, the Lexus LX was in its second generation, in the form of the LX 470, Driving.ca and Car and Driver report. The name comes from its 4.7-liter V8, which has 230 hp and 320 lb-ft, FourWheeler reports. That’s connected to a 4-speed automatic and a full-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case, Slee Offroad reports.
Unfortunately, the Lexus LX didn’t receive a 5-speed automatic or the slight horsepower boost until 2002. And by 2000, both the LX 470 and Land Cruiser had stopped offering the optional locking rear differential.
However, compared to earlier 100-Series models, the 2000 LX 470 has a stronger differential. And it has ABS, traction control, stability control, as well as adjustable-height adaptive suspension, The Drive reports. And with the 100-Series’ switch to independent front suspension, the Lexus LX has an impressively comfortable ride, Autoweek reports.
But the 2000 Lexus LX 470 isn’t just about luxury. In its highest suspension mode, the SUV has a 32° approach angle and a 26° departure angle, FW reports. And while it doesn’t have locking front or rear differentials, it does have a locking center differential, Autotrader reports.
The 2000 Lexus LX 470 on Cars and Bids
The 2000 Lexus LX 470 currently listed on Cars and Bids has all those features and more. In addition to leather upholstery and real wood trim, it has a power sunroof, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable heated front seats. It also comes with the optional Nakamichi audio system, which includes a CD changer. But while the roof rack may seem like a modification, that’s factory equipment.
In fact, this 2000 Lexus LX 470 is basically factory-stock. And until 2019, it was owned by the original owner. Said owner also added all but 375 of the 218,000 miles listed on the clock, Cars and Bids reports. While that may seem like a lot of miles, apart from the occasional exhaust manifold crack, the 4.7-liter Toyota V8 is legendarily reliable. And based on the provided service history, this LX 470’s engine hasn’t suffered that problem.
That’s not to say this 2000 Lexus LX 470 is cosmetically perfect. There’s an assortment of small cracks and chips in the exterior panels, as well as some wear in the interior. There’s also a bit of corrosion on the underside. However, the owner recently performed a significant service in preparation of the sale, Cars and Bids reports. The service included replacing the muffler and mid-pipe, the suspension ride height sensors, two hood struts, the radio antenna, and the oil. Plus, it was recently inspected by the state of New York.
What makes this SUV a bargain purchase?
As of this writing, this 2000 Lexus LX 470 is listed on Cars and Bids at $6470 with 3 days left in the auction. And while that’s likely due in part to the mileage, it’s not unusual to see 100-Series Land Cruisers with even more miles.
At that price, this 2000 LX 470 is noticeably cheaper than the average 100-Series model on Bring a Trailer. An LX on BaT typically goes for about $20k, though prices have been rising recently. And while this Lexus LX doesn’t have all the gadgets that a brand-new one does, a 2020 LX costs roughly $95,000.
Plus, with the Land Cruiser dead in the US, older models, including the Lexus versions, might appreciate in value soon. Which means this example could be a great way to get ahead of the curve.
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