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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  erterr - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By dan p - May 30 - 10:00 am

  this car is really good

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  Fun Car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Lynda Deuble - May 24 - 9:26 am

  This car has incredible brakes! It will stop on a dime! It corners well and handles well and is a dream to drive. The steering is quite sensitive compared to other cars.

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  Run Flat Nighmare - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By localred - May 21 - 10:00 am

  A wonderful car if you dont mind bone rattling jolts hitting potholes. Run flat tires are a nightmare: I have two new tires and two new wheels on a car with less than 10K mileage. Two other tires have bubbles meaning replacement soon. My wife hates to be a passenger unless we are on perfectly paved road. Avoid this car unless you only do highway driving!

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  One fine machine! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By bagman - May 12 - 2:00 am

  This is a very fun car to drive. It is extremely comfortable for both driver and passenger, possesses every amenity one could desire including a very functional GPS and a marvelous sound system from Mark Levinson. Added to that you get Lexus service which I have found to far above and beyond any other brand. My vehichle is silver with black leather interior and I do have the run flat tires on it to conserve trunk space.

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  Finally.. - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By PerfectLid - May 7 - 2:00 am

  It is the pinnacle we are all trying to reach, and Lexus has firmly taken you there with the SC430. A precisely built efficiently amusing and amazingly comfortable convertible that outclasses anything before or since. The seats provide the type of comfort you would only expect in a sedan and the leather is more luxurious than most Ferragamo supple coats. The steering is tight and responsive while the ride hugs the road but remains responsive. If it appeals to your visual senses, it will embrace your need for speed and exceed your demands for the utmost in luxury. Yes, Lexus, we have arrived.

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  Lexus SC430 Review - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Elaine the one - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Repeat Lexus SC customer--Also owns SC400. Excellent car in town--month ago took vehicle on 1500 mile(one way) trip. Nothing on road could perform with it. Rate SC430 10 for comfort but just a little short of my SC400. If only Lexus could place performance of 430 in body of SC400 size vehicle.

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  Awesome Car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Dr. Bob - April 7 - 5:46 am

  The best car Ive ever owned, and Ive owned 14 over the years including a corvette. Build quality and reliablity is the best of any car maker regardless of price. Beautiful looking, very fun to drive, top down is a breeze, comfortable, incredible sound system. Im getting 25 mpg on highway. Not one problem in 2 years. Nav system is fun to use on trips. Plenty of go power, less than the vette, but as to build quality and reliability, no comparison. Rides smooth and quiet, yet screams if I step on it. This ones a keeper.

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  Excellent Car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By James F. Peterson - March 28 - 10:00 am

  Looks great, drives great and is super quiet.

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  best car out there - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By marguerite Sensoli - March 16 - 10:56 am

  I have loved my Lexus SC 430, it handles great, and is so fun to drive. I have had not one problem with it. I will buy another one soon, but, for now, its amazing how new and beautiful it still is! Go for it, its a great car!

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  Mixed Reviews - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Meow - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE the look of this car. I have gotten so many compliments on it. Ive always had BMWs and find this ride to be worse than the BMW. It has more horsepower than my BMWs, but it doesnt drive like a fast car. The interior is luxurious but a little tight. Stereo system rocks! Now the negatives, the seatbelts flap in the back when the top is down. The trunk never opens easily... you have to keep pushing the buttons and then you have to push the trunk down and finally it will click open. You cant put ANYTHING in it when the top is down. On the good side, there is nothing like cruising in the sunshine with the top down and tunes blaring.