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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  A classy ride - 2008 Lexus SC 430
  By Baer - October 23 - 12:46 pm

  Im now 72 years old and have owned many fine nameplates in the past including BMW, Mercedes, Porsche and Audi. This car is an engineering masterpiece and a joy to own in its own right. I love top down cruising in the countryside with that smooth V-8 under my right foot. Turning on the Mark Levinson to my favorite tunes adds to the pleasure. Its a style that grows on you not unlike the new Mercedes SL, and for a lot less money. When it is replaced next year I doubt there will be another quite like it.

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  Im in LOVE... - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Paris Patrick - October 9 - 1:33 pm

  I LOVE this car. Its hard to find an exceptional car these days, especially when it comes to quality, but this is truly an exceptional automobile. The exterior is eye catching and timeless with an almost retro feel. Ive got the ecru/birdseye maple interior, which doesnt sound that great (I wouldve normally gone for the darker leather) but in reality is gorgeous and impresses everyone. It looks perfect with the Egyptian Sand exterior. The feel of quality and comfort is everywhere. I tested the Boxter, the Mercedes C series and the Volvo convertible, but they all seemed "plasticky" compared to the SC 430, especially the Mercedes. One drive and I was hooked.

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  Dream Car - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Venice Beach Pups - October 9 - 10:00 am

  I am still thrilled to hop in, put the top down and rocket down PCH in this car. The open cabin is quiet enough at 80 mph to speak hands-free without raising my voice and the ride is silky smooth nimble handling PLUS not a bit of a breeze ruffles my hair (air dynamics MIRACLE!). The only complaints I have heard regard cargo space and I find sufficient space with the run-flat tire option (no spare.) The rear seats are a visually stunning way of adding stowage. The SC430 is a dream car with Lexus reliability, Bentley luxury, Aston Martin panache and Porsche speed and handling. I plan to keep it FOREVER!!!

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  I LOVE this car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By george thorpe - September 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is a magnificent vehicle. It is a pleasure to drive and very comfortable. It is wonderful on either short hops around town or on the road. I am thankful I have it.

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  My Midlife Dream Car!!! - 2007 Lexus SC 430
  By kid free mom - September 26 - 3:36 am

  Just bought a lightly used 07 with 4000 miles. Just love it! The interior stands up against the Mercedes SL while being $40k less. Wanted a luxurious, smooth ride, with pep when I want it. This car is absolutely perfect! And the reliability of Lexus makes it a real no-brainer!

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  great car rough ride - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By lmst - September 25 - 10:00 am

  A great car. However, I am disappointed with the run flat tires. A bit to harsh

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  A great car! - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By RSA - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I owned 3 Porsches and a Mercedes E55. The SC430 lacks true sports car feel but is the best built. A hardtop convertible was our preference. We could not rationalize or justify the $40,000 price difference of the SL500. The Mercedes CLK500.It felt cheap and plastic-filled - ditto the new Cadilac. As for the back seat and small trunk the SC430 has more than my Porsches, the SL500 or Cadilac. With the top up we have room for both sets of golf clubs and luggage - meaning we can travel with this car where we could not with the SL500 or Caddy.

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  Dream car - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By vicki - September 14 - 11:13 pm

  I owned a GS 300 a few yrs. ago and sold it to drive a practical car. I bought a Yukon. Every time I saw a sporty Lexus I longed for another one. I stopped by to check out what Lexus had in the way of sporty and fell absolutely in love with the sexy looks of the SC 430. I knew I was in love! I bought it after only 1 test drive and have loved it every day since.

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  Best Ever - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Sandra Saxman - August 28 - 3:23 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. It is far far better than either my Mercedes SL or Cabriolet. It is beautiful and fun to drive.

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  Fun drive - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Dennis - August 24 - 11:16 pm

  Its a fun vehicle to drive around town and just as comfort for longer journey. Impressive pick-up and go too.