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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  Attention getting car brings happiness - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Dimples - May 1 - 2:00 am

  For my 25th wedding anniversary present, my husband asked me if I would like the cute little Lexus as a present. It has been a total joy of a car! Everyone wants to see it, and see the inside, even though it is almost two years old. It has saddle-brown leather inside (a darker color than I have seen any where else), and dark brown tortoise colored wood covering the radio and map area. Still to this day, I get extra attention and waves everywhere I go, while driving around the Pensacola, Florida area. It is smooth handeling, and fun to drive at the same time.

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  Best car ever owned - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By alpollack2 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Smooth ride, easy to handle especially at higher speeds. Envy of everyone. Top mechanism allows retraction in 25 seconds..quick enough to retract at redlights. Very fine car..will buy another in 2 years.

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  SC430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By aquaregia2001 - April 27 - 10:00 am

  this is my 6th lexus. its reliable, smooth, and a real head turner. fun to drive, fast, and safe. the top is convenient and looks as good down, as it does up.

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  best convertable in its class - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By mhz40 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  very nice iterior design,exellant navegation system.

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  A Feel Young Again Car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Kevin Sabian - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I just got my SC430 about a month ago, and I look for excuses to leave the house and drive around. I get tons of looks, and it feels great to sit behind the wheel. Every thing about the car is pretty much perfect, and it is so smooth and quiet..thats why I would trade it for my wife in a minute!

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  Wow - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By wilkslaw - March 19 - 2:00 am

  only draw backs are the run flat tires I hated that they came as standard with the car. I had to replace with michelins at the cost of 1,200.00. Not fair!I got the car 10/2001 and there is no explaining the endless compliments and stares to date!

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  SC 430 Lexus - 2007 Lexus SC 430
  By Jim Green - February 4 - 4:23 am

  Great car!I am very happy with features and quality of this car. Keep up the quality.

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  Awesome car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Mike111 - February 3 - 10:00 am

  All I can say is awesome. What a fun car to drive. I have only had it a few days, but I absolutely love it! A little more room in the back seat would be the only thing I would change..

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  Great Car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Julie Davis - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Rides very well.Convertable top is a joy to operate. looks and drives great

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  sc430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By les16 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  fun, fun , fun to drive