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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go this puppy on valentines day - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By dietmarLasVegas - July 22 - 10:00 amwell having never driven a car before this is a wonderfuel car and a great ride
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Best most satisfying car ever owned - 2002 Lexus SC 430
By david - June 21 - 2:56 amOur SC 430 is the best most satisfying car weve ever owned. Reliable, still gets comments EVERY time it goes out in public. A great ego tripper as well as a driving trip. Although it has less than 25,000 miles, it is used every day. A joy to own and drive.
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Top Convertible Sports Car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By edmagc2001 - June 20 - 2:00 amNo other convertibles in the U.S. car market today can rival the quietness (top up or down)& interior quality of this Lexus SC430. And the rumble sound from the exhaust with top down will remind you this is a sports car. By the way, I also own MBZ 500SL with less quality, more noise & higher price. Its my last MBZ.
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An SC for Me - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By rightmove2004 - June 20 - 2:00 amGreat Car! It needs help with some...any luggage space. No Bike racks, Roof Racks and not enough cup holders. Its great for picking up milk at 7-11 but dont even think of stopping at Sams Club. Why fo I have to go to Best Buy to hook up XM?
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Awesome Beuty One of a kind Monster - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By DannyO - June 20 - 2:00 amI love my SC430 it is Purple with white interior and my wife and I just think that this is a one of a kind true out of this world tranportation mechine. the only thing to keep in mind is children!!! they will hate sitting in the back seat and when they do the driver will have to drive very close to the steering wheel and that is not fun. so over all this is a true beauty
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You gotta drive one to understand - 2002 Lexus SC 430
By Cant Believe It - June 19 - 10:00 amThis car is unbelievable. Bottomless silky power. Shifts are invisible and the ride is top notch. I find it is quieter than the GS 430. Car is a real head turner. What a sound system! Simply a pleasure to drive.
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Best convertable? - 2005 Lexus SC 430
By peter john - June 4 - 1:36 pmI used to have a Mazda Miata back in 1990 and belonged to the Miata Club of America. Then went to a Mercedes 190 evo. loved the car but the fun factor was not there. Now this Lexus is a dream come true! Power, style, and reliability! Wow! By far the best car in the world for me. I love to just hop in and drive with no destination in mind. Looking to go from Toronto to Vancouver next summer. What other car would be as awesome?
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Pebble Beach - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By Roy Young - May 26 - 5:46 amI love the ride , even with the run flat tires . It is a lot of fun to drive , the power , the smoothness on good roads , the looks . It will be a hard car to trade in when the time comes.
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the best - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By ronnie21748 - May 9 - 2:00 amTraded slk...no comparison...lexus quality more bells and whistles. A true joy to drive.
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FUN IS BACK - 2004 Lexus SC 430
By TPAFL - May 9 - 2:00 amI have had several nice cars in the past, including Acura, BMW, and a two previous Lexus coupes. None of my previous cars matched the fun and excitement of driving the SC430. And if the fun and excitement arent enough, the unsolicited comments from people about what a looker the car is , or the wanting stares of people in cars around you while stopped at a red light are enough to bring a smile to your face!
