Is the 1996 Lexus LS400 RWD?
Yes. The 1996 Lexus LS400 uses a front-mounted V8 and a four-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. There was no factory all-wheel-drive option for this model year, making it a traditional rear-wheel-drive flagship of its era.
Drivetrain basics
To understand the LS400's drive configuration, here are the core elements that defined its drivetrain.
Engine and transmission specifics
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (F/RWD).
- Engine: 4.0-liter V8 (1UZ-FE).
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic transmission.
- All-wheel drive: Not offered as a factory option for the 1996 LS400.
This setup emphasized smooth highway cruising and refined handling, aligning with Lexus’s luxury-sedan philosophy of the era.
Buyer considerations and ownership notes
Before evaluating or owning a 1996 LS400, it helps to know how the drivetrain influences maintenance, costs, and daily driving.
Maintenance and performance implications
- Maintenance: Rear-wheel-drive architecture relies on a differential and driveshaft; routine fluid changes and inspections are straightforward for an aging luxury sedan.
- Driving characteristics: The RWD layout paired with a powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and cruising comfort, with predictable handling on highways.
- Model context: AWD options appeared in later Lexus generations, but not on the 1996 LS400.
These factors help explain the LS400’s reputation for quiet, long-distance comfort and reliable performance in the 1990s.
Summary
The 1996 Lexus LS400 is indeed rear-wheel drive, featuring a front-mounted 4.0-liter V8 and a four-speed automatic transmission. It did not offer a factory AWD option for that year, reinforcing its status as a classic RWD luxury sedan of its era.
Is a 1996 Lexus LS 400 RWD?
For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive.
Is the LS400 FWD or RWD?
Type: Front engine, rear-wheel drive, five-passenger, luxury sedan.
How much is a 1996 Lexus LS 400 worth?
The 1996 Lexus LS 400's price for a used model is around $9,995 as a nationwide average, but this can vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location. Other factors like the original MSRP of about $54,445 and updated valuation guides (like Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price of around $3,778) also provide context for its value today.
Factors influencing the price
- Mileage: Higher mileage will generally lead to a lower price.
- Condition: The overall mechanical and cosmetic condition of the car plays a major role.
- Location: Prices can differ depending on the state or region.
- Trim and features: Specific options and trim levels can affect the final cost.
- Market fluctuations: Prices are subject to change based on current market demand.
Valuation examples
- Average selling price: Approximately $9,995, based on current listings.
- Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price: Around $3,778, which is an average that may differ based on specific vehicle details.
- Edmunds trade-in value: Ranging from $1,267 to $3,691, depending on condition.
- Example of an auction price: One 1996 LS 400 with 165,000 miles sold for $7,599 on Bring a Trailer.
Are all Lexus LS RWD?
LEXUS SEDANS WITH AWD
On the GS, only rear-wheel drive is available on either trim of the 300, while the 350's two trims have a choice of RWD or AWD. The LS series – base LS 500, the LS 500h (hybrid), and the LS 500 F Sport – all come with a choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
