Is there any better large luxury car than the LS430 for less than $60-70K?
 

$60K used to sound like a lot of money, but with SUV's (H2 etc...) selling for $50K+ I mean the Lexus sounds like a bargain.

The 745i and the S Class are costing $10-20K more.

If you're looking for best overall luxury car in that price range, the LS430 is a no brainer. Of course, I would spend a few thousand more and get an M5, but that's me as I'm more interested in sport than luxury.

I like the M5 and 540i but they are mid size and like you said they aren't cheap either.

Q45 Maybe?

CAVEAT - I'm biased towards Lexus. I think they build excellent products at fair prices and give the best ownership experience out there. PERIOD.

However, I'd answer your question with another question. How are you defining "best luxury car"?

If your emphasis is on a smooth ride, rich interior, smooth and powerful motor and a kick ass stereo than I think the answer to your question is "no". However, if you put an emphasis on driving dynamics and are willing to go with slightly less impressive interior dimensions and more NVH (but with greater feedback) than there might be better choices. For example, the 5 series BMW and the Q45 come to mind.

If you are looking simply for luxury, and not a great deal of sportiness, the answer is Lexus, without a doubt. Take it from a guy who has had 18 of them.

I'd wait for the new all aluminum XJ8. It should be in the $60-70K as well.

I had a 1992 LS400 which is now being driven by a family member in Florida. It was the most reliable, comfortable car I ever had. It is a softer feel than a mercedes, bmw or jag, but is solid as a rock. I am told the car is still like new and has had no problems except an AC compressor at 165,000 miles and is still rattle free. The sterio sounds great and if you are not careful on the highway you can be going 95mph and you feel you are going 55mph.

The quality of the product is superior to Honda. Lexus service is second to none, free loaners even for oil changes free pickup and delivery in my case for routine maintainence. for the money the car is a bargin.

Yes, be sure to check out the new Q45! 340hp V8, rear camera, 18's, DVD nav, front and rear heated seats, power reclining rear seats, etc. all stock.

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/gatling_2.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/q_side_circ.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/ls_q.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/turn.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/interior_front.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45/tire_pressure.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45..._side_shot.jpg

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/q45...e_4_q_rear.jpg

My personal Q56 website here with tons of high quality pics and videos:

http://get.to/q45

Looks like the contenders are:

LS430
Q45
XJ

You may find that the XJR will be a little pricey but the NA versions will move too thanks to a curb weight in the range of ONLY 3500lb's!!!!

NS2000X