When Lexus debuted, more-or-less alongside Infiniti, in 1989, they offered a total of two models, the world-changing LS400 and the ES250. While the LS was a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan with standard V8 power and turned the luxury world on its head, the ES250 was a mildly altered Camry.
The ES has distanced itself further and further from the Camry with each generation, but has remained more of a comfortable cruiser vs. some rivals. That was the recipe in 1989, when the Acura Legend certainly was more of the driver’s car. While the ES isn’t much of an enthusiast car, its existence may be one thing that helped Lexus pull ahead of Infiniti in the early days. This four-door sedan certainly had more mass market appeal than the M30 Coupe (and later Convertible) which sold alongside the Q45 in Infiniti stores.
Today, it’s unusual to see one of these in good shape – they seem to be run into the ground, just like older Camrys. Don’t get too excited about the price, as it sounds like some recent work wasn’t completed or wasn’t done right. This one might be a ‘mechanic special’.
Click for Craigslist ad
Lancaster, CA
$1,550
Ad text:
91 lexus es250 recently built!
this car has fresh heads, new seals, new timing belt, gaskets.
it has a rare 2.0L v6 motor so its has power but also economical.
Clean tittle, pink in hand
The bad is that the tags expired since Jan, so the price is negotiable. I dont know how much is owed.
The power steering went out and the lifters weren’t adjusted correctly that’s why it’s so cheap. But the car starts fine.
body is straight and clean. Must see!!!