My wife and I will be looking for a second vehicle in the next few months so I am beginning to look at my options. I would like a pick-up truck or SUV but I would also consider a large highway crusing sedan. Our TSX is our third Acura and my wife likes the look of the RL. Here is a brief list of what I am considering, keep in mind I'm looking to spend about $5,000:

1) Acura RL
2) Lexus LS400
3) Toyota 4Runner
4) Toyota Land Cruiser (It would be old and high mileage, but really like the truck)
5) Ford F150

That being said, I've seen many 96-98 RL's out there with about 150K miles in my price range. Outside of the Timing Belt and water pump, what should I look for? I traded in a 01TL with 106K miles which drove better than any new car from the Big 3 so I know if they are well taken care of they last forever. The issue with the TL was the transmission, didn't want to take the risk.
So what should I know and look for? My wife doesn't like the LS, she much prefers the RL which is fine with me. Are they fairly quiet at highways speeds?

Anything other comments, feel free.

 

Yes the RL is very quiet on the freeway. Get some tires that claim to be quiet and you'll enjoy a smooth and relaxing car.

These RL's are quite reliable and cheap to maintain. The transmission and engine is rock solid.

 

Thanks for the advice and comments. I hear about window switches, etc., is that a common problem?

 

Thats about the only real issue the RL had, weird window switches that would act like some gremlins got in there.

 

Fortunately I have a good friend who's shop specializes in electrical work such as re-wind starters, etc. and has experience doing electrical troubleshooting on vehicles.

Also, the AC is pretty reliable?

 

A/C is very reliable, powerful and COLD.

I've been through some 110 degree days in the car and it performs wonderfully

 

Window switches are not a common problem on RL's. What is common in the early RL's are the rear window regulators breaking due to a poor design.

 

So other than the regulators, they are realiable vehicles. One with 150K miles or so with proper maintenance such as timing belt, water pump, should last a few years with normal maintinance?

 

A couple of questions:

1) Would you consider an older Acura Legend? How is there reliability compared to the RL?

2) What are your thoughts on the LS400? They seem to be bulletproof like the RL's, have more features, more power, more luxury, and cost about the same as the RL's. The RL was actually Acura's attempt at competing with the LS400.

Thoughts?