Ok, AK and I met today to test drive each other's cars, my M roadster and his 540/6. I've never driven the 6 speed before and it's amazing how different the car feels from the 540ia. Well anyway, over lunch we were speculating about the GS430 vs. the 540 and AK says, hey let's go drive one. So we hop on up to Tustin Lexus and the place is mobbed, but they had several 430s on the lot. They sticker out at slightly over 50k and have no sport package option. Comes with either 16" or 17" wheels, both of which look too small. Interior impressions: Seats are very cushy and bench like, very little side bolsters. In glove box CD changer was nice as well as center console had 2 levels and was as big as a shoe box, with a electrical outlet inside!!. BMWs excuse for the small console was the rear AC vent, but I looked and sure enough the Lexus had one too. Compass on the rear view mirror was a nice touch. Steering wheel was nice 3 spoke with the dotted leather at 3 and 9 o'clock positions, along with stereo controls. No shifter buttons on the steering wheel anymore though. Driving impressions: I could have sworn I was driving the LS. It felt big and floaty. compared to my 540ia, didn't feel as fast, even in the power mode and had more body roll. Steering was rack and pinion and brakes felt good, but I have a hard time believing that this car could keep up with a 540, much less one with a sport package, especially in the twisties. It was typical Lexus, quiet and solid but not enough road feel and low end torque for me. Stereo sounded better and they have a premium Mark Levenson unit as well. The price point and some of the amenities may give BMW some competition, but if you like spirited driving, I don't think this car even compares to the non sport 540.
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