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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  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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  .best car Ive had to date - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By zzzzzzz - August 5 - 4:53 pm

  Ive tried about 29 cars and trucks in the last 40 years... the 66 427 vette and the 2000 MB kompressor SLK were the very worst, the 2002 Lexus SC430 and the 2004 Lexus LX470 have been the way-out-ahead-BEST vehicles...no matter what the cost. The worst dealers by far were the Acura (dishonest,& poor service) and MB (arrogant and deceptive and not up to par quality with others of the same cost levels) too many come-backs, baloney, and re-dos! AWFUL!

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  Dream Car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By DKF - July 30 - 9:50 pm

  I bought this car knowing less than 1/3 of its capabilities. The more I drive it the more I am amazed I am at what it can do. This is a FUN car.

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  My Blue Lex - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By MyBluLex - July 23 - 7:20 am

  I waited a long time to buy the car of my dreams, and this car has proven to be beyond my dreams. I get comments all the time about the car. Driving with the top down and my long blonde hair blowing in the wind really gets some stares. Love it.. love it.. love it.

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  Fabulous!!! - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Victorian - July 21 - 2:00 am

  This car has only been a pleasure to drive and the compliments I constantly get prove that the exterior design is eye-catching. I would highly recommend this vehicle to all.

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  Lexus 430 SC - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By John Burns - July 21 - 2:00 am

  After 7 convertables owned this by far the best. Great retractable top. Great interior with the exception of the back seat.

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  sc430 great second car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By T4321 - July 21 - 2:00 am

  great second carto drive in the city but on a trip the trunk is small and it is only a two seater

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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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  New Owner D Lite - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By Lexie - July 10 - 8:56 pm

  I love this car its everything a convertible could be and exactly what I wanted. Large enough to be comfortable, sporty enough to be the talk of the parking lot. Interior detail is lavished with all that is lovely, outside is curvaceous and innovative. The top feature is intriguing to all who witness it, its truly convertible in every sense of the word. Sporting 20" Chromes with run flat Toyos it drives like a dream, all on-lookers drool. Some convertibles are made for the regular drivers - they neednt be speed demons, corner huggin, fastest off the line to enjoy -for those of you who always wanted a convertible - this car is for you. Its BODACIOUS Fun Drivin Fun To Own

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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.