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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  Lexus SC430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Sheree - March 29 - 10:00 am

  Absolutely fabulous. Have had several Mercedes in the past ... would never go back!

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  JD Power #1 rated car in history - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By DPDretcrd - March 11 - 10:00 am

  If your looking for a smooth running V8 300 hp vehicle with zero defects, this is the one.

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  Perfect with a few mods - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Umbo - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Overall I am thrilled about this car. The stock handling can be improved significantly with new stiffer antisway bars from Daizen. They make cornering much flatter, tighter and more controlled. I have the runflat Dunlops which are jarring when hitting potholes. I will replace with conventional tires when they wear out. One other aftermarket item that makes the car sweeter is Luxlink. It is a remote convertible operating system that uses the unlock button on the key to open and close the top. No more holding the switch on the dash for 30 sec. They are sold at Luxury Motorworks for $230.

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  Love the car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By latona - February 23 - 5:53 am

  I purchased from a lease and will keep this car as long as I am driving. Not my best decision for a primary car to drive my commute to work because I have already had to replace the "run-flat tires" twice! I love driving an almost 4 year old car and the brand new ones look identical !!

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  Almost Perfect! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By therocker - February 16 - 6:13 pm

  Dont be swayed by the low marks some have given to this vehicle. Most are not owners of this car & probably have never been in one, let alone driven one. Few cars on the road that elicit as many stares, thumbs up, cat calls and compliments as this car does. This car is powerful but it is not a true sports car. It has some sports car qualities but it is more of a touring roadster. This car is a super convertible but when the top is up it is a fully functional coupe without any compromising. Ultra luxurious, finest audio system around, 6 cd in-dash changer, best DVD navigation system, ulra-low emissions, smooth ride, quiet and no wind noise with the top down or up.

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  A lexus for a sunny day - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By david - February 15 - 8:46 am

  If you are looking for a 2 door coupe luxury car then this is a great car. Far exceeds the ride of coupes that cost $30,000 more. The interior is 100% Lexus quality from the soft leather to the well appointed controls.

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  The Perfect Drive - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By P. Mac - January 28 - 10:00 am

  This is as close to the perfect car as I have ever driven. The driver and passenger are left to want for nothing - - all accessories are provided. Comfort, luxury, excellent ride and power are provided in large measures

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  A head turner - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By eaglesteve43 - December 19 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. It is extremely comforable, quick and with the exception of the noise from the run flat tires, it is quiet. Top is amazing and the heads continually turn. Not good for the self conscious driver. Had people chase me to get a better look. Great car for the GT drive who is tired of making compromises and excuses for the discomfort of his sports car. Great mid life crisis toy, with Lexus fabulous quality

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  Timeless Classic - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Timeless Classic - December 18 - 7:33 pm

  When a car doesnt change its shape for the first 10 years it tells you something. They got it right the first time. This car gets the same admiring looks as it did in the fall of 2001 when introduced. Its the perfect combo of luxury, style and performance. Its not a pocket rocket but it is a luxury cruiser. You can take a 10 hour trip and not feel fatigued. That cannot be said about too many two seaters. This is one of the sexiest looking cars on the planet. The darker colors like Indigo Blue with saddle are the best looking color combos.

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  Fabulous car for a 60th birthday gift - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Molly Garofalo - December 10 - 10:00 am

  This car makes me feel fabulous every time I get into it. If you are having a bad day just put the top down and drive your cares away. I have also had a Lexus GS and traded a new LS on this car. I have been so surprized about the amount of trunk space when the top is up. I have traveled for 3 to 4 weeks and had plenty of room for all my luggage, dog crate and everything else. It also holds tons of groceries. Even with the top down I have enough room for a weeks groceries in the trunk. But, the best thing about the car is the smiles on my face when I approach the car, and slide into the seat. Put the top down and the day turns into sunshine.