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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  True Happiness - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Howie - December 5 - 6:10 am

  I purchased this vehicle used and sold my 1999 Mercedes SL 500. This car is a pleasure to drive in every sense. I wish that they would take out the back seat and place a self like Mercedes. Otherwise outstanding.

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  This car is amazing. - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By B2003LexusOwner - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car and the Mercedes SL500. What that car has in style, this car has in comfort and driving. This car drives better and is just more reliable. The Mercedes had a lot of trouble and often broke down.

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  Outstanding - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By leffen - October 30 - 2:00 am

  So far only 500 miles. Best car ever made in the segment. Outstanding quality, superior design, excellent owner support, max driver satisfaction.

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  a product that does what it says it will - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By ab - October 9 - 7:13 am

  it wont every be your only car but it will always be your best car. it is more fun to drive than i could have expected and it does just what an 8 cylinder sports car in this class ought to do-lift you out of your socks flawlessly.

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  Love my Lexus - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Black Beauty - September 21 - 5:53 pm

  I have owned my SC 430 for over a year now and love it. You mentioned your editors size, well Im 6 ft 4 inches and weigh in over 350 and have plenty of room. I have driven it 2000 miles on some trips and never feel cramped. The only addition I added was a set of custom chrome rims and low profile high speed rated tires and the proformance and handling is outstanding.So overall the style, performance, handling and luxury features are GREAT!! Rich

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  SC 430 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By jesslvaudio - August 27 - 11:43 pm

  What can be said, other than the fact that I test drove the rest, and bought the best. Lexus quality cannot be surpassed.

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  First 2004 SC430 in Seattle - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By mike70m - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Met and exceeded all expectations.

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  perfect choice - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By traumadoc - August 18 - 10:00 am

  I compared many cars and came to the conclusion not only was it a geat buy for the price but that it needed very little if any upgrades or customizing everything came standard and out of all the dealerships I visited ( some which I walked away from even though they had my car there due to rudeness and unwillingness to bend on the cost) Tustin was profesional courtious and a down right pleasure to purchase from both the sales manager (Mike) and my salesman(Eddie)went out of there way to make me happy including driving to palm springs himself to pick up my car so I could have it sooner

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  The Pleasure of Its Company - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By David Becker - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Flawless. Wonderful handling and acceleration coupled with the most elegant in design and execution, both interior and exterior. Unusually quiet with the top down, and strikingly so with top up. This car is a real pleasure to drive and enjoy. This car is significantly superior to my former BMW M3 convertible with far better reliability and dealer support.

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  love my lexus - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Big Dog Daddy - August 9 - 10:00 am

  I love the handling of it I owened a 1993 corvette b4 this and I like the SC better. As far as people complaining about the room in the back ,This car is a 2 seater not a family car t6hey only put 4 seats for insurance purpose, Wake up and smell the roses people the car is great.Even with roof down in trunk I still have room for my wifes and my weekend bags.