$3000 different 02 LC & 03 LC, which one would you get?

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2garfields

2garfields

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I find an 02LC in a local Toyota dealer 41K milesage with certified, and a 03 LC in a non toyota dealer with 36K milesage, which one would you get, and the price is $3000 different.

I left a message to the toyota dealer try to upgrade to bumper to bumper warranty from certified that only covers power tran, but they have not call me back in 3 days, has anyone done that?

The only worry I have on 03 is the Navigation system, since I don't have $5G to burn, and it is too late to get Toyota coverage on it.

Any thought:D
 
'03 for sure IMO
 
I'd say the '03 is worth the extra $3k. There are a lot of differences--the biggest ones being the 5-sp, optional side and curtain airbags, improved TPS/drive by wire, slightly more power, and updated dash. I see the Navi on eBay from time to time. Pick one up for cheap and hold as spare.
 
Both are good years. Get the one that is in best condition and/or you like best. Usually the dealer will let you take it home and drive it around for a day - do it with both. Discuss deals with the dealer and see what they will do.

The 03 will drive differently with the 5spd and variable steering. Getting that plus the NAV for $3K is very attractive. They should be able to certify the 03; if not, there may be a reason(s). If you get an extended warranty make sure it is with TFS (Toyota), you may need to go through another dealer - but it is available at a better price if under 36K miles. Check out the Toyota web site for TFS and their warranties - very informative - definitely get the $0 deductible for only $50 more.
 
I was in a similar situation and chose the 02 - I liked the interior better (less chrome, more old fashioned which appealed to me but may not to other folks) and with two little ones in the second row the side airbags were more of a worry than a benefit. Something you might consider if you have children...
 
My 2 cents worth. Nav is a window dressing item. Unless you must have it for daily use. One more item to look after down the road. With the use of all the map programs on the net, I never use my nav in my LS 400. When I need a nav for my cruiser's, for $100 I have a GPS system in my laptop (DeLorme) which works quite well. Plus larger screen for these old eyes.

In design and life more simple the better.
 
I originally thought that the Navsys was a silly gimmick. But I found it to be much more useful than I anticipated. Plus fun too... :) I like having it.


but, yes, the possibilty that it would conk out at great expense to replace (needed for a/c etc) is sobering
 
If the 03 has the side curtain airbags, that's a great way to go. If not, save your money. $3k is a lot of money, especially if you're weird like us and pay cash for everything.
 
IIRC, side air bags are standard on all '02+ LX's while on the '03 LC, it was an $800 option (not sure if it was available on the '02 LC).
 
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