The 1995 Lexus ES 300 is a luxury sedan, part of the second generation of the ES line, which ran from 1992 to 1996. Known for its refined ride and upscale interior, it was a popular choice for those seeking reliable luxury without the extravagant price tag of some competitors. The ES 300 was typically offered in a single, well-equipped trim level, making its pricing relatively straightforward for its era. Its popularity stemmed from its blend of Toyota's renowned reliability with Lexus's premium comfort and quiet cabin.
The Good
The 1995 ES 300 excels in its smooth, quiet ride and exceptional reliability, offering peace of mind. Its comfortable interior and elegant design appeal to emotional desires for luxury, while its fuel efficiency and value proposition satisfy practical buyers.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 1995 Lexus ES 300 include aging electronic components like window regulators and climate control systems. Transmission issues can arise if not properly maintained. Interior wear, such as cracked dashboards and worn leather, is also common.
1995 Lexus ES 300: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1995 Lexus ES 300 primarily featured a single engine option: a 3.0-liter V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produced approximately 188 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated EPA ratings for the 1995 ES 300 were around 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. These figures can vary with driving conditions and maintenance.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the mid-to-high 8-second range, offering a respectable performance for its class.
- Towing Capacity: The 1995 Lexus ES 300 was not designed for towing, and therefore, it does not have a specified towing capacity.
- Trim-Level Features: While generally offered in a single, well-appointed trim, the 1995 ES 300 came standard with a generous array of luxury features for its time. These often included:
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Power windows, locks, and mirrors
- Sunroof (often standard or a popular option)
- Premium audio system
- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
- Driver and passenger front airbags
- Cruise control
- Keyless entry system
- Alloy wheels
1995 Lexus ES 300 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1995 |
| Make | Lexus |
| Model | ES 300 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | TOYOTA CITY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3374 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 53.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 187.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.10 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 103.10 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $31,500 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1995 Lexus ES 300 Have?
The 1995 Lexus ES 300, like many vehicles of its age, can exhibit certain common issues. One of the most frequently reported problems concerns the automatic climate control system, where components like the blower motor resistor and control panel can fail, leading to inconsistent or non-functional A/C or heating. Window regulators are another common culprit, with power windows becoming slow or inoperative. The transmission, while generally robust, can develop issues if fluid changes have been neglected, sometimes leading to hard shifts or slippage. Cooling system components, such as radiators and hoses, may require replacement due to age. Interior wear is also to be expected; dashboards can develop cracks from sun exposure, and leather seating can become worn and torn over time. The serpentine belt and its tensioner are wear items that need periodic inspection and replacement. While specific recalls for the 1995 model year ES 300 are not extensively documented, it's always wise to check the NHTSA website for any outstanding safety recalls. Long-term reliability is a strong suit for the ES 300, largely due to its Toyota underpinnings. However, the aforementioned electronic and mechanical wear items are the primary concerns for owners of vehicles of this vintage. Regular and preventative maintenance is key to mitigating these potential problems and ensuring continued longevity. There aren't significant model-year-specific widespread issues that differentiate the 1995 from its close contemporaries within the second generation, but vigilance regarding the listed components is prudent.
How long will the 1995 Lexus ES 300 last?
Based on owner data and anecdotal evidence, the 1995 Lexus ES 300 is capable of achieving well over 200,000 miles, with many examples exceeding 250,000 or even 300,000 miles with diligent maintenance. Its long-term durability is a significant selling point, benefiting from Toyota's engineering prowess. Weaknesses that tend to appear over time, typically after 150,000 miles, include wear on suspension components, aging cooling system parts, and potential electrical gremlins in the climate control or power window systems. However, the core powertrain remains remarkably resilient. Consistent oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timely replacement of wear items are crucial for maximizing its service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1995 Lexus ES 300 offered a respectable suite of technology, entertainment, and safety features for its era, emphasizing comfort and convenience. Standard equipment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, often with a premium sound system that delivered clear audio quality. Power amenities were abundant, such as power windows, power door locks, and power-adjustable side mirrors, controlled via simple, user-friendly buttons. Automatic climate control was a hallmark of its luxury positioning, allowing for precise temperature management without constant manual adjustments. Cruise control was also standard, enhancing the driving experience on longer journeys. In terms of safety, the 1995 ES 300 came equipped with standard front airbags for both the driver and passenger, offering crucial protection in frontal impacts. The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was also standard, improving stability and steering control during hard braking maneuvers. Optional features often included a power tilt/slide sunroof, which added an open and airy feel to the cabin, and sometimes a CD player to complement the cassette system for a more diverse entertainment experience. Regarding crash-test ratings, specific official ratings for the 1995 model year from organizations like the IIHS or NHTSA are not as readily available or detailed as modern standards. However, the ES 300 was built with a reputation for solid construction and safety engineering inherited from its Toyota lineage, generally performing well in common impact scenarios for its time. Its robust chassis and well-designed safety cage contributed to occupant protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1995 Lexus ES 300 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1995 Lexus ES 300 had an original MSRP that typically ranged from the mid-$30,000s to around $40,000, depending on options. As a luxury vehicle from the mid-90s, it experienced significant depreciation over its first decade. Today, used market prices for the 1995 ES 300 vary widely, generally falling between $2,000 and $7,000, with pristine, low-mileage examples commanding higher figures. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, mileage, maintenance history, and the presence of original documentation. Cars with documented regular service and minimal wear tend to hold their value best. Unfortunately, most examples have depreciated considerably due to age and accumulated mileage.
1995 Lexus ES 300 Cost of Ownership
The 1995 Lexus ES 300 is generally economical to own, especially considering its luxury origins. Insurance costs are typically moderate for a vehicle of this age and value. Fuel costs are reasonable with its V6 engine achieving decent MPG. Maintenance is relatively affordable, with many parts being interchangeable with other Toyota models. Repairs can be slightly more costly for Lexus-specific components, but its reliability minimizes frequent trips to the shop. Overall, the ES 300 offers a low-cost entry into luxury ownership, making it an economical choice for those seeking comfort and reliability without breaking the bank.
1995 Lexus ES 300 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
18.50 gallons
City Mileage
20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
28 miles/gallon
1995 Lexus ES 300 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1995 Lexus ES 300 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1995 Lexus ES 300 Insurance
Insurance for a 1995 Lexus ES 300 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1995 Lexus ES 300 Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1995 Lexus ES 300 competed in the entry-luxury sedan segment against rivals like the Acura TL, Infiniti J30, and Cadillac DeVille. In terms of performance, the ES 300's 188-horsepower V6 provided smooth acceleration, comparable to or slightly better than the Infiniti J30, but less potent than some American V8 offerings like the DeVille. The Acura TL offered a sportier driving feel. Features-wise, the ES 300 was lauded for its quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and standard luxury amenities, rivaling or surpassing its Japanese competitors in overall refinement for the price point. The Cadillac DeVille offered more plush interior space but often at the expense of dynamic handling. Reliability is where the ES 300 truly shined. Toyota's reputation for durability meant the ES 300 generally held up better and required fewer costly repairs than its luxury counterparts, especially compared to the more complex European entries or even some American luxury cars of the era. Price-wise, the ES 300 offered excellent value, providing a luxury experience typically at a lower sticker price than comparable European sedans and often more competitive than its direct Japanese rivals when similarly equipped.
Alternatives:
Alternatives:
- Similar: The Acura TL (particularly the first generation from 1996-1998) is a strong alternative, offering a blend of performance and reliability, though potentially with a slightly less plush ride.
- Similar: The Infiniti J30 offers a more distinctive styling and rear-wheel-drive platform but might not match the ES 300's long-term reliability reputation.
- Consider if Budget Allows: For a bit more power and a different style of luxury, a well-maintained Lincoln Continental from the same era could be considered, though reliability can be more of a concern.
Final Verdict: Is the 1995 Lexus ES 300 a Good Sedan?
The 1995 Lexus ES 300 is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable, comfortable, and refined transportation with a touch of luxury. It's an excellent choice for commuters, seniors, or anyone who prioritizes a smooth, quiet ride and dependable performance over cutting-edge technology or sporty handling.
It is absolutely worth buying, particularly on the used market. As a used car, it represents fantastic value, offering premium features and a plush experience at a fraction of its original cost. The key condition for purchase is a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on common wear items like the transmission, climate control, and suspension. Due to its age, it will be a used purchase, as new models are long gone. A well-maintained example, regardless of mileage, is generally a sound investment for reliable, comfortable, and economical motoring.
It is absolutely worth buying, particularly on the used market. As a used car, it represents fantastic value, offering premium features and a plush experience at a fraction of its original cost. The key condition for purchase is a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on common wear items like the transmission, climate control, and suspension. Due to its age, it will be a used purchase, as new models are long gone. A well-maintained example, regardless of mileage, is generally a sound investment for reliable, comfortable, and economical motoring.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.