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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  Love It! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By sTRIDER - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I have always wanted a retractable hardtop vehicle with a great stereo system that was fun to drive. I have achieved my dream come true.

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  Fabulous - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By g clements - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is a fabulous, fun car. I dont care for the cupholders. Doesnt hold bottled water very good. My only critizism.

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  Wow the Neighbors, but Watch the Bumps - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By I ERNDIT - September 30 - 10:00 am

  SC430 offers the luxury car owner an uplifting experience. Make sure you wont be driving in a snowstorm or on a road surface that has not been recently repaved. The run-flats are poor performers on any surface other then what is shown in the alluring Lexus brochure. Solve this and it could be one of my all time favorites and I have been fortunate to have owned a 911C4, SC400, Delorean (well thats another story) Have a spare SUV in the garage, then wait for the great spring or fall day, crank up your favorite tunes on a sound system that is as good with the top off at 75 mph as when its up, and enjoy what very few others will ever know.

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  Simply WOW - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Jim B - September 20 - 2:00 am

  Took a while for me to decide on the Mercedes or the Lexus. Am I glad I purchased the Lexus. I am amazed by the build quality, everything works with quiet percision. Great Acceleration, can drive in 50degree weather with the windows up in comfort, great sound system, and wonderful dealer support.

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  Amazing - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Dr.J - September 19 - 12:50 am

  Ive always love to drive at night with the sunroof open. This car blows a sunroof away. Amazing power. Dead silent cabin with top down at high speed. Completely exhilarating. I look forward to the commute to work.

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  Lexius sc 430 zero to sixty in 5.9 sec. - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Leslie F. Hulnick - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Having owned several exotics inclusice of Porshe Jag and mercedes the Lexus Sc430 has been an incredible experience. The elctronic hard top and the fit makes for two seperate and distinct vehicles. The custom sound systim compensates for top up or down driving. The V-8 and structure makes for a solid driving experiance. Zero to sixty in 5.9 seconds is exilerating!

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  2002 SC 430 - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By jon - August 28 - 12:56 am

  Great car, fun to drive, lots of looks. Car has 132,000 miles now. All maintenance preformed by dealer. Drives like a new one. Ave mpg 22 city 26 hwy. Great nav system, stereo.

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  Looks arent everything - 2007 Lexus SC 430
  By GeorgiaGirl - August 21 - 7:26 am

  I had recently bought the Lexus SC430 and I truly hate this car. I have the rare pebble beach edition too. The first problem was that my left headlamp fell off while I was driving on the highway. Lexus said that it was due to driver neglegance. Then my power top got stuck halfway closed they did replace it. Then my alternator went bad Ive been through six already. Then three days ago my brakes let go coming up my driveway. The car is nice looking yes but its very unrealiable. Then my whole instrument panel stopped working. That cost me $1,100 dollars because it wasnt covered. I also have a Cadillac STS-V and that gets better mpg than the Lexus. Im trading this in for a most likely a Cadillac.

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  Quit Staring ! - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By senrveep - August 8 - 10:06 am

  One week old, but this car has the wow factor of my carrera cabriolet (when IT was new). The fit and finish is awesome, the exterior lines are distinctive and elegant and the interior is simply the finest. The car is very good with the top up, but only really struts its stuff when the top is down and mechanically loaded into the trunk. If you are seriously considering this car, make sure you live in an area where you can drive with the top down 8 - 10 months of the year because you will NOT want to drive it any other way. Sweeter ride than Benz or Beemer rodies, although not as fast as an M3 or SL500, but what it lacks in off-the- line performance, it makes up for it in every other way.

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  I Love This Car! - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Julieerick - August 2 - 5:40 am

  I test drove the BMW, Mercedes, and the Lexus convertibles before choosing the SC 430. This was an easy choice after comparing the comfort, ride, and noise levels. The SC 430 has smooth and quick acceleration, has a quieter engine, and has little road noise due to the hard top. The car handles corners and speed beautifully. Its fun to drive, is a comfortable ride with the heated seats, and the sound system is awesome. The GPS and bluetooth systems are amazing and easy to use. I think I am a Lexus driver for life.