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:

• 

  Lexus SC 430 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Greg - November 24 - 1:33 am

  Ive enjoyed the SC 430 - good power, handling and comfort in a very solid platform. Quality is first rate, and customer support is the best there is. Although small, the availability of 2 seats for small children is a plus.

• 

  Shaimayns opinion - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By shaimayn - November 21 - 8:46 pm

  Ive driven many luxury cars, and this by far is my favorite because it is an affordable sports car with a sophisticated, rich look about it. It drives amazing, with absolutely no road noise, which a lot of the other sports cars had. This is my second SC 430, and thus far have had no issues with anything.

• 

  A great car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By brian1 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  While every auto magazine seems to pan this car for performance, the truth is, this car equals the Mercedes SL 500 on the zero-60 tests, has better build quality and the interior and engine is about as nice and smooth as it gets. I would like to see another 30 h.p. and I like to see Lexus comeout with their own AMG or "M" division so that Lexus can compete with these performance machines.

• 

  Overrated - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By chuck - July 20 - 1:26 pm

  We got this car mostly due to the hardtop convertible feature. The design and comfort are very nice while the performance and drive are lackluster. The car seemed to have been designed for an older driving population who want the look of a convertible in a Lincoln Town Car frame. The technology and nav system is very counter intuitive with the entire system disabled while driving, so youd have to park the car before using your nav system or Bluetooth phone. Be careful of Lexus dealers lying to you about this feature. All in all, this car is somewhat disappointing but if youre looking to have a convertible look that drives like a sedan, then its the right car for you.

• 

  Needs a bigger back seat - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By garbvr - June 18 - 6:56 am

  Mostly positive

• 

  Nice car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By charlyn - November 20 - 8:30 pm

  This car does not have a very good shock absorber system. It is very rough on the road, but it gets about 26mpg, which is better than I expected on highway driving at fast speeds. The car has a lot of power.

• 

  A Boring Convertible - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By mickeyalso - October 12 - 10:00 am

  For a performance convertible this has to be the most boring for the dollar. Our Volvo S60R T5 is more fun, and a better value. It pales in comparison to the Z06 for a performance vehicle.

• 

  The poor mans exotic - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By NOB - August 20 - 2:00 pm

  Despite the recall on the tire valves, and the battery that could never charge, and the broken 6 disc CD changer, this is an awesome car. The closest thing to a lemon that toyota has ever built, but im in love with it.

• 

  Great & its not even summer - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By Bubba - May 23 - 9:36 am

  I think the GPS is very intuitive and Ive never used one. I activated the bluetooth without the manual and it definitely works when the car in moving. Hearing the other party is much better than my other cars bluetooth hook up. I even like the token back seat that holds my son until hell move to the front. I love the headlights that go around the corner and the seats that fit like a glove. Im not thrilled that it asks for premium fuel but thats not a big deal. I cant wait to drop the top this summer but love the fact that the PA winters are not harming a soft top while waiting for summer to come.

• 

  Beware of Snow... - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Looneytuna - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Do not attempt to drive this car with any snow or ice on the road. It has absolutely no traction even in the snow mode. I have owned Benzs with rear wheel drive and they at least held the road. Unfortunately this is a warm climate car only. The new run flat tires are horrible, living in NYC, they continue to lose air and get bubbles with the slightest bumps..