Overview & Reviews

Shortly after the launch of the Lexus brand in the early '90s, this luxury automaker introduced its SC coupe. The original SC was initially available with a six- (SC 300) or eight- (SC 400) cylinder engine. But even with the debut of these sporty coupes, Lexus still lacked a convertible model. That gap in the model line was filled when the Lexus SC 430 replaced that pair of SC coupes. The SC 430 luxury convertible was one of the first modern production vehicles to popularize a retractable-hardtop design.

A handsome, richly appointed interior, a smooth and sprightly V8 and top-notch build quality were the SC 430's chief attributes. The few downsides include tiny, essentially unusable rear seats and an isolated driving experience. Viewed as a two-passenger luxury car first and a sporty convertible second, the Lexus SC 430 fared reasonably well. But if you're looking for sharper handling and more aggressive performance, most of the offerings from Germany's luxury automakers will serve you better.

Most Recent Lexus SC 430
The Lexus SC 430 had a long production run lasting from 2002-'10. On paper, the SC 430 could be seen as a sports car considering its V8 power, convertible top and essentially two-seater cockpit. But in reality the SC 430 was primarily a luxury tourer that was packed with amenities. The one-touch power-folding hardtop (the SC was one of the first cars to pioneer this technology) made the car ideal for all-season use, as it provided better security and noise reduction than a traditional fabric top.

The SC 430 was long on luxury and features. There was just one trim level, and it came very well equipped with items like leather upholstery, genuine wood trim and a navigation system. Under the hood was a 4.3-liter V8 that produced 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Initially, power flowed to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission.

There were only minor changes throughout the car's run. For 2005, Lexus retuned the suspension for a smoother ride. A new six-speed automatic transmission and adaptive headlights showed up the following year, as did updated exterior styling with new wheels and taillights. Inside, the Lexus SC 430 received a new gauge cluster, shift plate and revised trim. The V8's rated output also dropped slightly, to 288 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, though actual acceleration was unaffected.

For 2007, Lexus added driver and passenger knee airbags and a front passenger seat occupant sensor for airbag deactivation. For the SC's final model year in 2010, the navigation system was upgraded to include real-time traffic and other features, while satellite radio, an iPod interface and Bluetooth streaming audio were added to the standard features list.

In general, we found that despite the smooth V8 and somewhat sporty suspension calibrations, an involving drive and razor-sharp handling weren't a part of the SC's pedigree. Instead, the SC 430 placed plush ride comfort over sporty handling dynamics. The suspension soaked up bumps like a new sponge but the drive just wasn't very entertaining. But as a luxury convertible with a reputation for very good reliability, the SC 430 should serve you well.

User Reviews:

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  What a car! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Phillies40 - April 15 - 3:23 pm

  Just got the car this morning and drove it to work! What a fun drive! Noise is little high but the ride is very smooth! I think I got a great deal for 2002 SC430 with 23000 miles for 25K. Not bad! I love it so far!

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  Very Satisfied! - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By ssides - April 14 - 2:00 am

  The lexus SC430 is an awesome car. Having had a Corvette C5 prior, I am a bit disappointed with the acceleration but it is a minor annoyance when compared with all the amenities and the hard top convertible is awesome. Oh, and did I say that the dealer experience is incredible!

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  BEST CAR I HAVE OWNED - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By David - April 2 - 6:20 am

  I purchased a 03, and it is by far the best car i have ever owned. My previous vehciles were 1994 Porsche 928GT (good car), 2000 Corvette (good acceleration but cheap parts and unreliable), 1999 Porshce 911 (good overall car, but lower quality after nearing bankruptcy in 1996) and 2003 BMW Z4 (good looking, but had it for a year and brought it to the dealership for 8 times for repairs). None of these care compare to the SC. The interior is the best I have seen in any car (my friend owes a Jaguar XK, and he agrees). The ergonomics and quietness of the cockpit is amazing. Great Reliability. This is a perfect car.

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  My toy SC430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Scott K - March 29 - 10:00 am

  After owning 4 previous LS, SC, and ES versions of this now legendary mark, I am pleased to finally have a convertible available in the lineup. I believe Lexus hit their mark with a thoroughly delightful power machine. The quality is obviously Lexus and the design is an eye catcher every time it leaves the driveway. My Indigo pearl with custom lexus wheels seems to be the attention getter of the neighborhood. Power is sufficient but not over the top, handling is solid but lacking against the likes of BMW. Far superior in every way over my previous Jaguar!

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  Lexus SC430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Sheree - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Absolutely fabulous. Have had several Mercedes in the past ... would never go back!

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  JD Power #1 rated car in history - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By DPDretcrd - March 11 - 10:00 am

  If your looking for a smooth running V8 300 hp vehicle with zero defects, this is the one.

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  Perfect with a few mods - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Umbo - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Overall I am thrilled about this car. The stock handling can be improved significantly with new stiffer antisway bars from Daizen. They make cornering much flatter, tighter and more controlled. I have the runflat Dunlops which are jarring when hitting potholes. I will replace with conventional tires when they wear out. One other aftermarket item that makes the car sweeter is Luxlink. It is a remote convertible operating system that uses the unlock button on the key to open and close the top. No more holding the switch on the dash for 30 sec. They are sold at Luxury Motorworks for $230.

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  Love the car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By latona - February 23 - 5:53 am

  I purchased from a lease and will keep this car as long as I am driving. Not my best decision for a primary car to drive my commute to work because I have already had to replace the "run-flat tires" twice! I love driving an almost 4 year old car and the brand new ones look identical !!

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  Almost Perfect! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By therocker - February 16 - 6:13 pm

  Dont be swayed by the low marks some have given to this vehicle. Most are not owners of this car & probably have never been in one, let alone driven one. Few cars on the road that elicit as many stares, thumbs up, cat calls and compliments as this car does. This car is powerful but it is not a true sports car. It has some sports car qualities but it is more of a touring roadster. This car is a super convertible but when the top is up it is a fully functional coupe without any compromising. Ultra luxurious, finest audio system around, 6 cd in-dash changer, best DVD navigation system, ulra-low emissions, smooth ride, quiet and no wind noise with the top down or up.

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  A lexus for a sunny day - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By david - February 15 - 8:46 am

  If you are looking for a 2 door coupe luxury car then this is a great car. Far exceeds the ride of coupes that cost $30,000 more. The interior is 100% Lexus quality from the soft leather to the well appointed controls.