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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  SC430 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Larrry B - July 1 - 6:43 pm

  I have owned lots of cars over the years,the Lexus convert is one of the best cars that I have driven and Lexus is the best Co to deal with . They really stand behind their products.

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  Peeble beach review - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By peeble beach - November 20 - 1:26 pm

  I would like to see this sexy vehicle stay around. I cannot believe the plug is about to be pulled on this work of art. The only change I feel is necessary is the front end design. A couple minor changes could make this car very popular once again. The head lights cover too much space. I feel a change that resembles the front end of of the mercedes SL 550 would greatly improve its appeal. Do that and Ill buy another.

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  They dont make them the way they used to - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By jambo - November 1 - 10:00 am

  Lexus cut corners with The switches and controls. They appear to be straight out of a toyota corolla. I think the steering wheel is too. Ride is harsh on the run flats. They last for about 5000 miles and then start rumbling really bad. Paid $1600 for new tires in less then one year of casual driving. Dealer says this is normal. The seat belt position is to low for taller drivers. The 1991 LS 400 we bought new was a much better car. Clearly, corners were cut on this one. I will be getting rid of this car ASAP. Anyone want to buy a Nieman Marcus Silver Belle Edition SC430 with new tires?

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  RATTLE MOBILE - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By sprete - April 30 - 7:16 pm

  I purchased this car brand new about 1.5 years ago. Ive had lots of annoying problems with it ever since (too many to list). Im lucky to go 2 months before having to bring it back to dealer. The car has more rattles and noises than a 79 corvette. Dealer replaced a roof hinge that was squeaking so loud that the Mark Lev sound system couldnt drown it out! They finally fixed that and the the passenger side started squeaking. The drivers seatback had to be repaired for a clicking noise-- again, once that was fixed the passenger side started acting up. Run flats are terrible! Thank God the car looks so good and the sound system is the best Ive heard otherwise Id junk this mother!

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  ROUGH RIDE - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By LARRY HAND - February 15 - 10:00 am

  CAR RIDES VERY ROUGH IN AS LITTLE AS 12000 MILES WITH THE RUN FLAT TIRES. ALSO PRODUCES A DARTING AND JOLTING FELLING FROM VERY SMALL ROAD BUMPS. BEST TO DRIVE A USED ONE WITH ABOUT 10000 MILES ON THE TIRES BEFOR YOU PURCHASE, YOU MAY DECIDE AGINST IT. ALSO THE RUN FLATS ARE ABOUT $500 EACH AND NEED TO BE RELACED AT ABOUT EVERY 20000 MILES IF YOU CAN TAKE THE RIDE THAT LONG.

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  Close to Perfect - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Lexus_B - August 14 - 12:00 pm

  This Lexus is outstanding. My sc430 handles nice, is comfortable, and is very reliable thus far- all of what you would expect from a Lexus. The hardtop operation is stunning. The luxury appointments are breathtaking. In terms of performance, the car wont blow you away, but the sc430 is adequately powerful and fun to drive. The car also feels very safe and drives very strong in the rain and snow. I immediately changed the run flat tires to Kumo Grand Touring Platinum tires, and the new tires greatly improve the ride, traction, and handling. Even with the new tires, the ride is a bit harsher than I expected for a Lexus. Overall, this car is as close to perfect as you will come for the price.

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  This is a Great Car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Carol McMillan - July 21 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car when it first came out. Felt like a rock star riding around in it for the first three months. Everyone wanted to see it. They loved seeing how the hard top retracted in 39 seconds. I have no complaints. I still have the run flat tires. Its a slightly bumpy ride but no more than my old Porsche & it gives me more trunk space. Its a sports car thats completely reliable -- a miracle in our time. Its fast enough. Love the sound system and the navigation system. If I get a new car it will probably be a newer version of the SC430

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  in 2013 still turns heads - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By mrcongeniality - July 6 - 4:13 pm

  These cars were so ahead of there time in 2002. It is a great car overall and for a used convertible this is the best value you can get for a used convertible under 15k (2002 to 2004 used ones). Do not use in snow at all. Not even once inch it will crash. My friend who had one told me this. It drives smooth and refined and its reliable. If you buy a German used convertible youll spend a lot in repairs. You wont with this. I dont have the run flats but I hear they are a problem. The top is up and down in 25 seconds.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By coolpat - April 16 - 8:26 am

  This car demands attention. The hard top convertible is fabulous. Low end torque not quite as good as I expected, but high end torque is amazing. The ride is a bit harsh as you might expect with a sports car. Sound system is great. Trunk is bigger than expected.

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  FUN to drive, but some fixes are in need - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Drlazor - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Fun to Drive. Get all kinds of good looks in this car. The problem is the car has so many little problem that it gets frustrating. 1. The Window does not meet the roof correctly. Should do an MB does and close the window after the door is closed. 2. The run flat tires SUCK. 3. The space between the tire and the rime is bad, My wife has bent the rim runnnig over simple pot holes. 4. The Tan interior does not clean very well. 5. The preformace off the line is not very good. It has to think for a few seconds before it goes. Do get me wrong I like this car alot, but for the price....