Strangely I haven't found many posts on Lexus. The old ES300 is going for 400K - 600K baht. How much of it is a Camry I'm not sure, but sure it's value for money compared to old European cars.

I'm surprised that the Thais are not so keen on the Lexus brand.

Generally speaking, even though I'm not sure which generation of ES300 you're contemplating, IMO it's a fine car. As you've mentioned, it's essentially a spec'd up Camry. However, that doesn't mean necessarily that key parts are interchangeable. But since it's a Toyota at-heart, the odds are fairly good that it's been well made (recognizing that there are exceptions to every rule). My father's ES has just passed without major trouble its 16th year. Also, I've heard first-hand reports about excellent Lexus dealer service in the Big Mango.

I share the opinion that Asians (not merely Thais) tend to give Lexus less credit than that given to the European luxury marques. But that may mean you'll have an opportunity to get good value for your money.

Generally speaking, even though I'm not sure which generation of ES300 you're contemplating, IMO it's a fine car. As you've mentioned, it's essentially a spec'd up Camry. However, that doesn't mean necessarily that key parts are interchangeable. But since it's a Toyota at-heart, the odds are fairly good that it's been well made (recognizing that there are exceptions to every rule). My father's ES has just passed without major trouble its 16th year. Also, I've heard first-hand reports about excellent Lexus dealer service in the Big Mango.

I share the opinion that Asians (not merely Thais) tend to give Lexus less credit than that given to the European luxury marques. But that may mean you'll have an opportunity to get good value for your money.

I'm referring to the first generation of ES300. I've been told my ex-owners that it's almost a "problem free" car, something which is hard to believe even if it's a Toyota at heart. I've been told that the QC for Lexus is one of the best, if not, the BEST in car making.

Well, your review of your Dad's ES has done me a great favour. Yes, it's value for money because the first generation ES is still cheaper than the second generation Camry, as far as the Thai market is concerned.

I'm a service manager at a Lexus dealership in Florida....The older ES is a great model, just make sure the engine has had it's regular oil changes. The older v-6s are VERY prone to gelling up and will need a rebuild afterward...NOT a cheap option. Just a warning for an otherwise well-built car.

My take is I would rather be driving a Accura Legend.

In Canada I inherited my Father's 1992 Lexus ES 300, he bought it new in October 1991 so almost 17 years old. It is a great car and has very little problems actually other than routine maintenance it has had no problems. It has not been winter driven so the body is like brand new, no rust at all, it is a great car, and I love it, would love to have it here. Since I'm not getting back to Canada like I expected, I let my sister drive it in the summer. Issangeorge.

Thais don't like it cause it looks kinda boring and the styling is outdated. Not too much face to be gained...

Personally I would buy one for the reliability and comfort. I don't buy into that face thing though.

L

Thais don't like it cause it looks kinda boring and the styling is outdated. Not too much face to be gained...

Personally I would buy one for the reliability and comfort. I don't buy into that face thing though.

L

Oh, it seems you've familiarized yourself with the Thai culture Indeed, everything in Thailand is about "gaining face" which is termed "dai-na" in Thai. This is the reason why most Thais are head over heels over Benz and BMs, and the craze has spread to mini coopers as well.

My take is I would rather be driving a Accura Legend.

Legend is nicer loking car, but more troubles to repair.

Generally speaking, even though I'm not sure which generation of ES300 you're contemplating, IMO it's a fine car. As you've mentioned, it's essentially a spec'd up Camry. However, that doesn't mean necessarily that key parts are interchangeable. But since it's a Toyota at-heart, the odds are fairly good that it's been well made (recognizing that there are exceptions to every rule). My father's ES has just passed without major trouble its 16th year. Also, I've heard first-hand reports about excellent Lexus dealer service in the Big Mango.

I share the opinion that Asians (not merely Thais) tend to give Lexus less credit than that given to the European luxury marques. But that may mean you'll have an opportunity to get good value for your money.

I own an ES300 in America. It is not a souped up Camry in any way shape or form. It shares little with the Camry including the body. Why do people say this when it clearly is not true?