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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  2004 SC430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By dpm - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Enjoy the outdoors while driving is an amazing experience. Enjoy the completely automatic retractable roof - no manual latching or fighting with the top. Pick-up is good. Very comfortable to drive. Although the backseat and trunk space are limited, I didnt purchase the vehicle for space. I purchased it for the experience!

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  Does it get any better than this? - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By aldog - June 21 - 2:03 pm

  After owning a CLK 430 and an SL500 I cannot imagine buying anything else.This car is better than the new SL..faster from 0-60,smoother ride..more wood..bigger tires and $25,000 less. Lexus has found a way to take the very best of Jag and Mercedes and make it better.After driving my SC430 now for 3 months,I like it more now than the day I bought it.

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  New Car Review - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By WEM - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Very quiet and rides well. With the top down, you can hear the passenger talking at normal voice levels. Stereo system is very nice and GPS works very well. Seating and climate controls are very good. Accelerates well once it is moving, but has a distinct hesitation before shifting that can get you into trouble while merging into traffic.

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  The best - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By jetbell - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I have own many different sport cars and hands down by far this is the best yet. The quality and reliability of lexus is 1st class.

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  The Best of the Best - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By scubadoc - May 17 - 10:00 am

  This is my second SC. Replaced a MB SEC 500 AMG and will continue with the Lexus nameplate because of reliability and quality.

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  My dream come true! - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By MASalvio - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I love cars, buy one every 2-3 years, and have always wanted a sports car. The Lexus 430 SC is truly the car of my dreams. It handles beautifully (except in the snow), feels comfortable as well as luxurious, and I can put the top down in less than one minute. I tell people Im not buying another car until I cant get in this one any longer. There is nothing bad to say; even the gas mileage is acceptable.

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  Great car for a tall person - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By vinterv - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Tried all the sports cars and for the tall person-this is the car. A lot of thumbs up on the highway. You wont be incognito. Just fun to drive.

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  snow - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By beebas1 - April 28 - 2:00 am

  very bad in the snow

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  Papas 43 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Richard - April 23 - 12:10 am

  Vehicle rides like a luxury sedan, but has wonderful pickup and handling ability.

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  FUN, FUN, FUN - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By LEXUS MAN - April 17 - 10:00 am

  POWER, LUXURY, AND THE ADDED BONUS OF OF TOP DOWN MOTORING. TYPICAL LEXUS QUALITY IN FIT, FINISH, AND DRIVABILITY. GETS THUMBS UP AND "WOWS" WHEREVER WE GO!