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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  Number One Convertible On The Market - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Barton Simon - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I believe this car to be superior to the Mercedes SL500 (Ive owned 3)and BMW convertible (owned 1). Just a fantastic automobile at 2/3rds the price of an SL.

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  Cosmo - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Leslie Crawford - July 2 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Lexus automobile and I considered no other vehicles at the time I purchased my 2002 SC430. As much as I admired the Lexus SC430, the fact that it was a Lexus and that I had had two very good previous experiences with Lexus automobiles was a big factor in my decision. The only problem I have experienced with the vehicle was a faulty "window regulator", which manifested itself by a rattling sound. The problem was corrected when the dealership installed a new regulator. Otherwise, I have continued to enjoy this vehicle since taking delivery in August 2002.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Happy in SF - June 15 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car on the market in my book. I was initially looking for a small sedan (BMW 530i or Lexus GS model). Instead, ended up going home with this model 2 weeks later. I love it. Its perfect as long as there are only 2 riders. I have my top down whenever possible--this is made easy by the fact that it only takes a button to drop the top.

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  MAGNIFICANT - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By TAXLAWYER - June 15 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY 2ND SC....SIMPLY THE BEST!!!!

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  Lexus a hit - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By jerfilm - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This car is a winner

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  great car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By rafter44 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  terrific car. dont know what Id change.

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  Super Cool SC430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Nursey - May 19 - 2:00 am

  Great car for those who seek impractical, but fun transportation. Top down, superior sound system up, gets lots of attention.

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  Love this Car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Jonnyjmp - May 17 - 2:13 am

  I have to say this has been the best car I have ever owned. The only problem is people want to talk to tell you how nice the car looks when you have the top down and are stopped at a light.

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  What a beautiful car - 2007 Lexus SC 430
  By Starstruck - April 30 - 8:40 pm

  It is the car that you cannot keep your eyes off of. Perfect in almost every aspect.

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  its wonderful to drive an sc430 daily - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By kay - April 26 - 2:00 am

  This car is wonderful to drive and gives you much comfort if you are a busy, hardworking person. It is especially lovely to drive with the top down. Nothing has gone wrong at all.