A 2001 Lexus LX470 SUV did not find a buyer on eBay this week. The auction commenced with a starting bid of $140,000 and reached over $145,000 before concluding on Christmas afternoon, but did not meet the seller’s reserve price.
While many individuals would be ecstatic to receive more than $145,000 for an older SUV, this instance was exceptional. The Lexus in question had a mere 1,000 miles on its odometer and was in pristine condition.
According to the seller, the vehicle was stolen from a dealership in 2001 when it was still new. The thieves kept it hidden in a warehouse with other vehicles for several years before the entire collection was recovered. The seller emphasized, “There was never any accident or damage to this truck, which is confirmed through an inspection. Plus, the truck comes with a clear NJ title.”
In 2001, the LX470 was equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine producing 230 horsepower. It included standard features such as stability control, four-wheel drive, cassette and CD players, leather seating, and a sunroof. This model belongs to the second generation of the LX line, which was available in the U.S. from 1998 to 2007 and is based on the UZJ100-series Toyota Land Cruiser.
Known for its robust construction and longevity, the LX often surpasses a quarter-million miles. However, pricing this not-so-rare luxury SUV above $145,000 appears unreasonable. A brand-new third-generation LX, which is comparably well made, starts at around $90,000. While the 2018 version may lack the analog charm of the older LX models and is less aesthetically appealing, prospective buyers could save considerable money while obtaining a more spacious and efficient vehicle equipped with modern safety features. This appears to be a fair compromise.
Nevertheless, some people might appreciate the novelty of owning a vehicle that is 17 years old yet almost new, or they may simply have a fondness for large Lexuses (or Lexi?) from the early 2000s. Alternatively, interested buyers could seek out a well-maintained 2000-2002 LX with lower mileage, perhaps between 70,000 and 100,000 miles, and replace any worn components. Although this option wouldn’t be completely original, it would allow for the enjoyment of a nearly flawless SUV from the same era while saving some money on that $145,000 price tag.
Garr Larson from Barn Finds pointed out that the vehicle’s intriguing history could attract a “museum or dedicated collector” willing to pay a premium. It will be interesting to see what price it ultimately fetches if it returns to the market.
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