What is the top speed of a 1995 LS400?
The top-end speed of a stock 1995 Lexus LS400 is typically limited to about 130 mph (210 km/h) in US-market form due to a factory speed governor. This article explains what factors determine that figure and what you can expect in everyday driving.
Technical basics
The 1995 LS400 is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 called the 1UZ-FE, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. While the engine delivers strong highway performance, it is not built for extreme top-end speed. Here are the main factors that cap the speed:
- Engine output: about 250 horsepower and roughly 260 lb-ft of torque in US-spec form, which enables confident acceleration but isn’t aimed at high top speed.
- Gearing and drivetrain: the five-speed automatic uses relatively tall highway gears that favor refinement and fuel economy over hard, high-speed runs.
- Weight and aerodynamics: a full-size luxury sedan weighing around 3,700–3,800 pounds with a drag coefficient near 0.29–0.31 limits top-end speed despite the engine's power.
- Electronic limiter: the ECU typically includes a speed governor around 130 mph for US-market LS400s to protect tires, drivetrain, and occupants.
- Tire and road conditions: tire rating, wear, inflation, and ambient conditions can affect sustained top speed near the limiter.
In summary, these design choices tend to cap the stock 1995 LS400’s top speed at about 130 mph (210 km/h) under normal conditions, with small variations by market and vehicle condition.
Real-world performance and variations
In everyday use, the LS400 prioritizes quiet, confident highway cruising over outright speed. Factory figures emphasize smooth power delivery and refinement rather than top-end sprint. Independent testing and owner reports consistently place the notable top speed near the 130 mph mark, though some markets or modified cars may show slight deviations.
Maintaining peak performance also relies on engine health, proper transmission operation, and correct tire choice. A tired engine or worn transmission could dampen maximum speed, while fresh, correctly specified tires can help sustain high-speed operation more reliably.
Notes by market and model year
US-spec models generally featured a 130 mph speed limit. Some export markets and later revisions may have slight variations, but Lexus did not publish a higher official top speed for the 1995 LS400. If you’re assessing a particular car, verify the ECU software and tire specifications for the exact ceiling in that vehicle.
Summary
The 1995 LS400 typically tops out around 130 mph (about 210 km/h) in stock form with the factory governor engaged. This aligns with the car’s design as a luxury cruiser rather than a speed-focused sedan, offering strong highway capability with an emphasis on refinement and comfort. Real-world top speed can vary by market, maintenance, and tire condition.
What is the 0-60 time for the '95 LS400?
Mileage: 19 mpg city; 25 mpg highway,Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 7.4 seconds. Top speed: 150 mph.
What is the quarter mile time for a 1995 Lexus LS400?
Owners must prefer to keep the spirited V-8 as their own little secret." With 15.5-second quarter-mile times at 92.6 mph, there can be little excuse for being late to a board meeting.
What is the top speed of the 1995 LS400?
The LS 400's 0–100 kilometres per hour (62 mph) time was 8.5 seconds, and its top speed was 250 km/h (155 mph).
How fast is a Lexus LS400?
Again not bad not bad at all. But let's let the traffic through. And do a 0 to 60. Test 3 2 1 Let's.
