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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  Linda Loves her Lexus - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Linda - June 6 - 8:10 pm

  I love my Lexus. Its more fun then my corvette. I started driving a Lexus in 1994 and I get a new one every 3 years. This last year I got a SC 430 it is by far the most fun to drive. Besides my grandchildren think its a cool car.

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  LOVE IT! - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Amar - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Unlike many drivers, I am a 23-year-old single male, but like everyone else I love it! The thing is like a portable amusement park. Also, I live in Georgetown and love getting eyed by all the hot girls-- their eyes light up. Though its not as good as my baby bulldog, the attention is incredible. But the best moments are when you are all alone, driving fast on the highway.

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  My SC - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Cu - June 2 - 10:00 am

  I have owned 2 SCs. I have loved them both. The new, retractable hard top gives me the best of both worlds. There is little road noise with the top up. The stereo is high quality. The car is the ultimate if you want a convertable. I didnt look for a car with big back seats and a huge trunk. It fits me perfectly, as all the instruments are within reach. Wow. What a ride! Everyone who drives it, loves it!

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  Awesome luxury in a Sports car - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By Myers - May 19 - 9:16 pm

  Awesome drive. Comfort and luxury in a sports car! Not a commonly seen vehicle that turns heads. Good gas mileage for its type. Attention to detail is spectacular. Hard-top convertible is unique and works flawlessly.

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  Maui cruiser - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By chrisinmaui - May 9 - 1:23 pm

  Unbelievable ride, grace and class. Run flat tires are silent even with the top down. I have never owned or driven anything like this. Looked at all other options but there is no equal for the money in elegance ride and overall feel. This car is made for running tropical moonlight nights with the top down. Top up it is not recognizable as a convertable. My only wish is gas mileage was a littee better, getting 19mpg @ 2000 on the odometer.

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  Dream Car - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By Harry55 - May 1 - 6:36 pm

  Super vehicle. Amazingly quiet even with top down. Acceleration and braking are great, as billed in the literature. A real lux sport coupe on winding roads. A fantastic ride.

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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.