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What is the top speed of the 1997 Lexus LS?


The 1997 Lexus LS, part of the LS 400 series, is a luxury sedan that combines elegance, comfort, and performance. Known for its smooth ride and reliable engineering, this vehicle remains a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors. One of the most frequently asked questions about this model is its top speed. Let’s dive into the details.


Performance Specifications of the 1997 Lexus LS


The 1997 Lexus LS 400 is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering a seamless driving experience. The car was designed to offer both luxury and performance, making it a standout in its class during the late 1990s.


Top Speed of the 1997 Lexus LS


The top speed of the 1997 Lexus LS 400 is approximately 149 mph (240 km/h). This impressive figure is a testament to the vehicle's powerful V8 engine and aerodynamic design, which were ahead of their time in the luxury sedan market.


Factors That Influence Top Speed


While the official top speed is 149 mph, several factors can influence a car's ability to reach this limit:



  • Condition of the Vehicle: A well-maintained engine, transmission, and tires are essential for achieving maximum performance.

  • Road Conditions: Smooth, straight roads are ideal for testing top speed, while uneven or winding roads can limit performance.

  • Weather: Wind resistance and temperature can affect the car's aerodynamics and engine efficiency.

  • Driver Skill: The ability to handle the car at high speeds safely is crucial.


Why the 1997 Lexus LS Stands Out


The 1997 Lexus LS 400 is not just about speed; it’s about the complete driving experience. With its luxurious interior, advanced technology for its time, and exceptional build quality, this car set a benchmark for luxury sedans. Even today, it remains a symbol of reliability and sophistication.


If you own a 1997 Lexus LS or are considering purchasing one, regular maintenance is key to preserving its performance and longevity. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in servicing classic and luxury vehicles to ensure they perform at their best.


Frequently Asked Questions

Which LS is the strongest?


The LS9 was the pioneering LS engine to incorporate a supercharger, resulting in an impressive 638 horsepower, making it the most powerful LS engine of its time.



What does LS mean on Lexus?


Luxury Sedan
LS stands for Luxury Sedan. The original LS 400 – the car that launched Lexus back in 1989 – was the work of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers.



How fast does a Lexus LS 400 go?


General performance

Top speed250 kph (155 mph)
18m slalom60.9 kph (37.8 mph)
36m slalom105.8 kph (65.7 mph)
600ft slalom95.6 kph (59.4 mph)
Lateral acceleration0.79 g (8 m/s²)



What is the top speed of the LS engine?


Team Speed Demon owns the title of fastest piston-powered, wheel-driven car on the planet. Their salt-flat streamliner makes upwards of 2,000 horsepower and goes over 400mph.



How fast is the Lexus LS?


How fast is the 2024 Lexus LS? The 2024 LS ranges in power from the LS 500h with 354 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds to the LS 500 F SPORT with 416 horsepower and a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds.



How long do Lexus LS engines last?


The LS460 is overall quite bulletproof. I've seen the 4.6 V8 last as much as 500K miles without issue, so long as the proper maintenance has been done throughout its life. You should not run into anything that's hard to eliminate, it's going to be the standard fluid maintenance, brake, and suspension wear and tear.



What does LS stand for?


Luxury Sport
The LS or Luxury Sport engine began as a V8 gas engine, and the LS name came from the code “LS1” used by Chevrolet to designate the Chevy Corvette's third generation engine. Before the small block appeared in the Corvette, Chevy used the CL or Custom Luxury engine.



What year is the fastest Lexus?


2012
The fastest production Lexus is the Lexus LFA. Although only 500 were produced for the 2012 model year, things like its 4.8-liter V10 engine have made it legendary.



Are 1997 Lexus LS400 reliable?


LEXUS SERVICE RATES IT AS MOST MAINTENANCE FREE
The car has been terrific. Reliable, quiet, comfortable. All maintenance records are available through Hendrix Lexus (I can get them for you). I would recommend this car to any of my friends.



Is the LS400 reliable?


This powertrain is known for being able to achieve extremely high mileage and remain reliable while doing so. The power output is around 260 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. So, while these early Lexus LS400 models may not be as fast as a modern car, they certainly are not underpowered.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.