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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  My baby blue bullet - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Magali - April 21 - 10:47 pm

  Safe. Classic. Its feels like an airplane cockpit.

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  My SC 430 - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Gary Goltz - April 8 - 10:00 am

  This is my 4th Lexus and the most fun one Ive owned. I have a LX 470 and had a GS 400 and a LS 400 so I know the cars well. This one is fast, sporty, and quiet. It is a 2 seater. Forget about using the back seat for anything but storage or midgets!

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  Best car ever! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By empty nest momma. - April 5 - 11:40 am

  I had to drive this car in a massive rain storm while 18 wheelers were pulled over, this car hug the road and never once did i think it would lose control. This car is a head turner and also extremely reliable. I feel certain I can get a couple of hundred thousand miles on it like my other Lexus.

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  Luxury Sports Vehicle - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Denise Frias - April 1 - 3:50 am

  I purchased the crystalized white metallic with ecru interior. I have compliments on my vehicle daily. Driving this car is like having the luxury of a sedan with the ride of a high end performance vehicle. The hard top convertible and style is what sets it apart from other cars in its class. It comes with Navigation and other options are standard with this vehicle. The competitors in the same class list prices that are much higher and only come with a basic package. I strongly recommend this car to anyone in the market for a high end sports car who appreciate more car for their dollar.

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  great machine - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Joe lexus - March 16 - 10:00 am

  Smooth as silk with a quiet ride and great extra features. The sound system that you can listen to with the top down and the compartment that you can hear your passenger talk with top down.

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  Fun in the Sun - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By George Pannell - February 21 - 9:36 am

  This is the best vehicle we have ever owned,married 37 years and we have owned quite a few! Living in Las Vegas provides the enjoyment of maximum use of a convertible that turns heads with unbelievable performance and Luxury. We are approaching retirement and this is a keeper along with our RX 330. Couldnt be more satisfied with this beautiful automobile.

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  My Pebble Beach Edition - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By John Northen - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I chose the "Azure Pearl" (sky blue metallic) 2004 "Pebble Beach Edition" over the SL 500 and XLR. Only 400 will be made. The trunk and "rear seat" space was nominal, at best. No problem. Actually, the so-called rear seat is perfect for my dog and light luggage. I ordered the appropriate Michelin tires rather than the "run-flats". I paid the full MSRP. Luxury abounds. A real head-turner. The Mark Levinson stereo system in without peer. The illuminated blue "Lexus" scuff plates, the buttery ecru leather and black birds eye maple trim couldnt be sexier. Surveys by J.D. Power rate this car as tops for quality and reliability.

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  Lexus SC430 is awesome - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By ckearney - February 5 - 10:00 am

  After testing the BMW & Mercedes, I drove the SC430 and never looked back. Incredible feel to it and the interior luxury is unmatched.

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  pocket rocket - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By moy - January 27 - 10:00 am

  great fun. good looking. great technology on the retractable top. noise level in cabin could be quieter with improvements on wheel-roll noise. all in all a dream.

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  feels like flying a plane ! - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By tamiami - January 24 - 2:00 am

  This car is absolutely a dream ! Would never go back to a porshe after driving this !