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:

• 

  Tired out. - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Alebowitz - March 30 - 1:56 pm

  With top up, it is difficult to look backward to park because of the hump. Run flat tires are a very hard ride, and not suitable for winter- pothole/cracked streets. When tire hits pothole, you will need to replace tire and rim for approximately $1,000 each. I replaced three tires at a cost of $3,000 in one year.

• 

  Over Rated Toyota - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Don Hollywood - November 6 - 2:00 am

  I have never been so disappointed in a vehicle!!! My 2003 Lincoln LS V8 out performs the Lexus, hands down. As far as luxury features are concerned, there are non, other than a great navigation system. The seats are hard, the accelaration is fair, at best. The styling is unique but, you cant see the front, much less the rear, of the car from the drivers seat making parking a nightmare. I was considering a Vette but, went for the Lexus SC for a better ride, boy was I wrong! Handling and ride are both far less than my Lincoln. Overall, I find the car to be a real ripoff and Im about to loss $10,000.00 + just to get rid of it!

• 

  Not a great car. - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Tom Nault - September 22 - 6:53 am

  Ive owned one for a year and Ive nothing but annoying problems. Most are loud rattles and squeaks that the dealer cant seem to fix even though they hear them. The passenger seat shudders with every bump if unloaded. The car has been a complete nightmare and I dont recommend it to anyone unless you dont mind constant loud squeaks and other unwelcome noises. The car had more minor problems than most Ive owned. As an example, the left headlight washer didnt retract, grease kept smearing along the passenger side window, and the carpet had to be replaces just because of missing ring for the rug anchor. Im very disappointed in Lexus for their failure to find a solution.

• 

  Lexus `SC430 engine blew up - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Ronald Sage - August 21 - 10:00 am

  In about nine inches of water on the road the car stalled and the engine blew. Lexus could not explain it and refused to cover it. Apparantly in any situation where there is water over the lowest point of the bumper it scoops into the engine compartment. This appears to be a serious design defect.

• 

  EXCESSIVE RUSTING - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By ONTHE BCH2001 - April 28 - 10:00 am

  since purchasing the car ive had rust problems. it first started on the door and then moved to the retractable roof. i had the rust removed from the roof 4 times to date.to top that off i was told on my last schedulled visit that my whole undercarriage is rusted out.for the last 9 months my lawyers are fighting lexus to buy the car back. i would not recommend buying any product from lexus.

• 

  RUSTMOBILE - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By JOHNSONB - January 23 - 1:30 pm

  THIS CAR HAS HAD NUMEROUS DEFECTS SINCE PURCHASING. THE MAIN PROBLEM IS BODY RUST. I CHECKED FLORIDA LEMON LAW CASES AND FOUND MANY DISPUTES WITH THIS MODEL.TOO BAD I DIDNT DO MY RESEARCH BEFORE PURCHASING.