LEXUS GS300 (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 175 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Total Tests (2024)
175
Avg Mileage
130,327 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 1997 LEXUS GS300 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 27 years old, 87% of LEXUS GS300s from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 175 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 130,327 miles.
How does the 1997 LEXUS GS300 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 LEXUS GS300 has 130,327 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a LEXUS GS300?
The most reliable year is the 2009 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 72%. The 1997 sits between the two at 87%.
How much does a 1997 LEXUS GS300 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LEXUS GS300 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 88% | 307 | 82,593 mi |
| 2008 | 84% | 290 | 101,726 mi |
| 2007 | 86% | 537 | 113,924 mi |
| 2006 | 82% | 850 | 112,615 mi |
| 2005 | 82% | 1,380 | 113,983 mi |
| 2004 | 82% | 118 | 123,462 mi |
| 2003 | 80% | 235 | 120,543 mi |
| 2002 | 78% | 234 | 126,236 mi |
| 2001 | 86% | 205 | 116,012 mi |
| 2000 | 82% | 158 | 127,322 mi |
| 1999 | 82% | 343 | 120,738 mi |
| 1998 | 86% | 426 | 126,321 mi |
| 1997 | 87% | 175 | 130,327 mi |
| 1996 | 72% | 142 | 119,245 mi |
| 1995 | 96% | 45 | 134,888 mi |
| 1994 | 86% | 42 | 103,430 mi |
Checking a specific LEXUS GS300?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 LEXUS GS300
The 1997 LEXUS GS300 is a premium performance with a 2997cc petrol engine. 175 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 16% of all 1997 cars for reliability.
With an average of 130,327 miles at 27 years old, LEXUS GS300 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 LEXUS GS300 Fuel Costs
The 2997cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1997 LEXUS GS300?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LEXUS GS300 Reliability Trend
The LEXUS GS300 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 LEXUS GS300
At 27 years old, the LEXUS GS300 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2009 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 1997 LEXUS GS300
The LEXUS GS300 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW Z3 (1999) 78% pass rate (-9%) from 8,191 tests
- PORSCHE 911 (1999) 87% pass rate (same) from 3,668 tests
- PORSCHE BOXSTER (1999) 81% pass rate (-6%) from 3,058 tests
- MERCEDES C (1999) 82% pass rate (-5%) from 2,683 tests