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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  Just the best car Ive ever driven... - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By stockdoc9999 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  After many years of self-denial I finally gave in and bought an impractical car. WOW! This car is the most fun and highest quality automobile I could imagine. Sheer perfection.

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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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  Outstanding - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By D Wofford - February 7 - 4:30 am

  A fun and reliable vehicle that I have had almost no problems with. When the speakers were damaged by my son, the dealership replaced them at no costs. Lexus service is outstanding.

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  The best ever - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Darren Mclean - February 1 - 3:40 pm

  It is very comfortable to drive. If I was to sell it I would make sure that it is in the best conditions that it could be in. It is so comfortable that you could sleep in as soon as you sit in it. It drives very smoothly. The interior design is very beautiful to my eyes. The exterior design is wonderful to my eyes. It is fun to drive.

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  SC 430 - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By The Haz - January 24 - 11:30 pm

  Comfortable, quiet luxury grand-touring convertible. Combined city/highway mileage 21.5 mpg. Solid body, no squeaks or rattles. Excellent performance from V-8. Bulletproof reliability. Handling good, but not true sports car handling. Very safe handling and crash protection. Overall a delightful and enjoyable automobile!

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  My current love - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By ED - January 12 - 8:00 pm

  Ive been driving for 60 years, have had at least 20 different cars and the same no of different makes. This is the best..

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  We love the SC430 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Marshall Craig - January 1 - 3:23 pm

  Great driving, beautiful automobile. This car is so much fun, we will keep it for years. Yes, the backseat is too small. Yes the cup holders need improvement. But who cares! This is one great car!

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  Wow!! A dream to dtive!! - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By SBLocal - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I love this car!! Cant go anywheer and not get noticed. A true joy to drive and great on long road trips. Very nice design and very fast! I would recommend this car to anyone who needs luxury but has to had performance and looks. This car is a 12.5 out of 10. I wasnt even able to test drive it before I bought it, doesnt that tell you something?

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  Love it, Love it, Love it - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Liz in Louisiana - December 16 - 5:30 pm

  I was driving on the interstate one day when a SC430 passed me up. I didnt know what kind of car it was but was immediately drawn to the shape - I sped up to get closer and took a really long look. My love affair with my current vehicle was all over from that point on! Within 3 months, I was a proud owner of a crystal gold with saddle leather SC430 and I have never regretted it. Not a day goes by that I dont get at least one compliment on my car, thumbs up signs from people in their cars next to me at red lights or people speeding up to get next to me on the interstate. I find the backseat perfect for my purse and my umbrella and the trunk holds plenty of groceries. Dont wait...

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  A prodigious achievement! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By toyotas1 - December 8 - 4:40 am

  Thank you, Lexus, for bringing 21st century style and luxury to the FULL-SIZE luxury convertible class. The one who compared this to the Audi TT needs to drive BOTH cars before making a fool of himself. Just wish that instead of the fake back seat, we could get a parcel shelf, more front egroom, and a pop-up rollover bar, like the SL. But this car is a stunner, and an incredible value, at over $25k less than an SL, its onlt real competition.