How fast is the 1998 GS 400 1 4 mile?
In stock form, the 1998 Lexus GS 400 typically completes a quarter mile in the upper 14-second range, around 14.6 to 14.9 seconds, at roughly 95 to 100 mph. Times vary with conditions such as weather, surface, and the car's mechanical condition.
The GS 400 from 1998 is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 (the 1UZ-FE) producing about 300 horsepower and roughly 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. With a curb weight near 3,700 pounds, it blends luxury refinement with gradual acceleration rather than outright sport-car pace. The quarter-mile figure is a common benchmark used to compare it with contemporaries and later rivals.
Core specs that influence quarter-mile performance
These factors are the most influential when measuring stock quarter-mile times for the GS 400. They determine how quickly the car can move from a standstill to the finish line.
- Power output: about 300 hp and roughly 310 lb-ft of torque from the 4.0L V8 (1UZ-FE).
- Transmission: four-speed automatic; no factory manual option in 1998.
- Drive layout: rear-wheel drive, which affects launch and traction dynamics.
- Weight: curb weight around 3,700 pounds, affecting inertia and acceleration.
- Tire grip and traction control: OEM tires provided adequate grip for daily driving but limited aggressive launches on slick surfaces.
The combination of these elements helps explain why the GS 400's quarter-mile times cluster in the upper end of the 14-second range rather than in the low 14s or faster.
Real-world test results and observed ranges
Independent testing and owner reports show typical stock results in the mid-to-high 14-second bracket. Below is a general summary of what testers have observed across different runs and conditions.
- Typical stock performance: roughly 14.6–14.9 seconds in the quarter-mile, finishing around 95–100 mph.
- Best observed under favorable conditions: times approaching the mid-14-second marks, depending on launch technique and track grip.
- Variability: weather, track surface, tire condition, and driver reaction can push results a few tenths in either direction.
In summary, the GS 400's quarter-mile capability sits in the upper-14-second range for a luxury sedan of its era, reflecting its upscale focus rather than pure performance tuning.
Summary
The 1998 Lexus GS 400's quarter-mile performance generally lands in the upper 14-second range, about 14.6–14.9 seconds at 95–100 mph in stock form. Real-world results vary with traction, surface, and vehicle condition, and enthusiasts seeking faster times may explore modifications—though those come with trade-offs in ride quality and reliability.
