Fresh Lexus IS200 Owner

[Phony23]

Hello everyone! I'm a first-time poster here, and I'm hoping you can help me out. I recently acquired a 2000 Lexus IS200, but I'm not sure which trim level it is. I've done some research and found that there were three different trims available that year: the S, SE, and Sport. I was wondering if anyone could tell me what the main differences are between these trims, so that I can figure out which one mine is. Specifically, I'm interested in differences in features, performance, and styling. I would really appreciate any information or insights that you can share! Thank you in advance.
Also, I'm curious to know what modifications you would suggest I do to my Lexus IS200, if any at all. I'm not looking to make any major changes, but I'm interested in subtle upgrades that could improve the car's performance or appearance

[J Henderson]

The SE and Sport are very similar in terms of standard equipment.

The Sport can be identified via a number of cosmetic differences; 2-tone steering wheel, metal pedals, scuff plates, dark rear windows. It also has a limited-slip differential and was only available with a manual gearbox.

I believe the "S" model lacks things like electric seat adjustment, heated seats, sunroof, headlamp washers etc.

 

[Phony23]

Great news. That means I have the Sport trim

[scudney]

Does it have a small boot spoiler with the third brake light 🤔 another Sport addition over the SE?

[Phony23]

No it doesn't. That was the main reason why I was wondering if it was Sport or S. I'm also looking to buy one if anyone can help me out.

[javadude]

I lowered mine with Eibach springs, changed the wheels cause mine had rubbish S model ones, added ventilated brake disks, painted the calipers and added some decals I found on eBay. I got a nice smooth sounding sports exhaust that sounded good without being too loud. I can't remember the make but I think it was discontinued. I added an induction kit that I think someone in the club was fabricating. It was a while ago. It didn't make it that much quicker, maybe a little more responsive. The exhaust was probably the best mod. In retrospect I wouldn't have added the induction kit as that was too loud/coarse sounding.

There was a supercharger that people were adding to get about 210bhp for £2k. It only took a few hours. Someone even added it at a meet up at a jap car festival. I think they were TRD and discontinued even then so very few available and they were sometimes sold and moved from car to car.