My parents bought one in 2003. We were looking at the GS 300, the BMW 530i, and the Benz E320. The E320 seemed too expensive, and didn't have much more performance or luxury than the Lexus. The 5 Series was nice enough, but it wasn't as family-oriented as the Lexus. Also, the BMW dealership was pretty rude, and not nearly as cooperative on financing (my mom had an average credit score of 825, financing should not have been a problem anywhere). The GS 300 was cheaper the competition, every bit as luxurious and safe, and the dealership experience and service was and has been miles ahead of the haughty Germans. So, we went with it. My mom loves it; I would have preferred the 530i because I need a manual tranny, and the chassis felt more lively than the rather sedate GS 300. But what do you expect? I'm 18.
