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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  my excellent car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By rich strouse - April 26 - 2:00 am

  best purchase I ever made

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  Close to perfect - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By ELSAS DAD - April 25 - 10:00 am

  Thanks to all who posted their reviews previously. This is a fantastic car that will not disappoint as long as you understand it is not a pure sports car, but instead a GT touring car. I got the saddle interior, which not only looks good but actually smells like leather (unlike most japanese cars).

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  Best of Show - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By fpwmerc - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I have had just about every car in my 40 odd years of driving here and abroad. This car is easily one of the best, if not the best I have owned (That includes 4 MBZs, 3 Porsches, 2 BMW and a host of others) A car that does it all with comfort and a ride like "rolling on ball-bearings". It is quick, fun to drive and all that stuff.....but in the end......it is a convertable. No longer do I drive my weekly 300 mile trip to LA with wind noise of my previous rag top at the same decibal level as a landing small jet. This car is a treat!

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  Mercedes is loosing ground fast - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Concho - April 16 - 10:00 am

  Can not find anything that is not well beyond my expectations. This vehicle is a drivers dream. This vehicle replaces a SL500.

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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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  Not What I Thought - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By sorry4me - April 11 - 10:36 pm

  I must be an idiot !! My girl convinced me to buy this car. I was perfectly content with my Gorgeous 50th anniversarry Corvette. From the day I bought this so called "certified" car I have had nothing but problems. Thank god its still under warranty !! Then my dad said something very true...the SC430 is nothing more that a jazzed up Toyota!! Remember that when you buy this overpriced wanna be sports car. You would expect that they put some thought into the suspension. My Ford F-150 rides smoother than this. Today I brought it in yet again because it keeps eating batteries. Three visits and they cant figure out what the problem is - they are talking about replacing the harness now.

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  carefree top-down - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By flatfoot - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this vehicle after test driving the Jaguar XKR. Not as fast as the Jag, but blew it away in the comfort, value,and ergonomics dept.The peace of mind of the hardtop and the serenity when the top is helped my decision.

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  sc430 review - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By jportala - March 21 - 10:00 am

  What a driving experience! Smooth, high performance and comfort all in one. Great looking interior and exterior design.

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  Very fun car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By brianfuchs - March 17 - 3:56 pm

  Have had my SC430 for three days now. The wife and I love the power, and the comfort. We DID manage to stuff our three year olds in the back seats for a few trips around the block. They loved it, but Im cure child- cruelty laws were being broken... Remember, the rear seats are for insurance-lowering purposes only.

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  SC430...King of the Road - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By nivri - March 17 - 3:16 pm

  Ihave many cars including Ferrari, Rolls, Bentley...Astin Martin..did love my Rolls a lot, but the Lexus SC 430SC is all my dreams wrapped up in one car..its a convertible..its a hardtop..its most comfortable..beautiful interior...not a sleek body style,,but all in all a winner..for the money..a real buy....