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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  Lexus SC 430 - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By willson - September 10 - 10:26 am

  This vehicle draws a lot of attention with its great interior and beautiful design. The performance is smooth.

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  The Best in Luxury Convertible cars - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By Dino - September 10 - 1:10 am

  Don’t compare it with Porsche or MB, they are different animals. If you want to feel the engine, the road and handling of a real sport car go with a Porsche or SL500 or if you have the bucks go with a Ferrari but if you want to have a quasi Sporty convertible car with real luxury, the best reliability in the market, good power (60MPH in 5.8sec.), excellent comfort, outstanding stereo sound, premium amenities and you want to keep the best value in a car the SC430 is the car! Some people, disapprove the back seat, but to me its a good thing, why? Because my insurance is not considering my SC like a Sport Car that normally is 50% more expensive expensive than a regular car because the 4 seats.

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  Best little convertible in Pasadena - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By SoSherrie - August 6 - 10:00 am

  The most wonderful car Ive ever owned. And so much fun!!!

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  A great car - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By brian1 - August 6 - 10:00 am

  While every auto magazine seems to pan this car for performance, the truth is, this car equals the Mercedes SL 500 on the zero-60 tests, has better build quality and the interior and engine is about as nice and smooth as it gets. I would like to see another 30 h.p. and I like to see Lexus comeout with their own AMG or "M" division so that Lexus can compete with these performance machines.

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  Overrated - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By chuck - July 20 - 1:26 pm

  We got this car mostly due to the hardtop convertible feature. The design and comfort are very nice while the performance and drive are lackluster. The car seemed to have been designed for an older driving population who want the look of a convertible in a Lincoln Town Car frame. The technology and nav system is very counter intuitive with the entire system disabled while driving, so youd have to park the car before using your nav system or Bluetooth phone. Be careful of Lexus dealers lying to you about this feature. All in all, this car is somewhat disappointing but if youre looking to have a convertible look that drives like a sedan, then its the right car for you.

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  SC 430 Excellence - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By arabesque - July 16 - 4:23 am

  Having owned two SC 400s the purchase of a 2005 SC 430 was a natural and welcome happening. The car is so much fun to own and drive! Exceptional quality in comfort and style, power and dependability, the Lexus SC 430 fits our needs for sport and travel. Sure, its a bit short on rear seat room and luggage space but we consider it a sports car with a strong engine and smooth ride. The safety features and treatment of options are Lexus quality through and through. We are truely satisfied with this premium automobile. Wish they still made them!

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  Love my SC 430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Lank - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but good things to say. I would buy another one.

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  Needs a bigger back seat - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By garbvr - June 18 - 6:56 am

  Mostly positive

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  My classy convertible - 2007 Lexus SC 430
  By bunnie - June 13 - 2:06 pm

  I really love my Lexus sc 430, it handles beautifully and I enjoy driving it. I have no problems with it at all. I purchased the car new and have replaced the tires at 25,000 miles which is to be expected. I hope they do not change the style, it is just a great looking vehicle.

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  Very nice car - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By alexj123 - June 12 - 9:10 pm

  This car is as fun to drive as it is attractive. I love this car as it appeals to the right side of my brain. It is seductive, with nice lines and curves, and beauty to abound.