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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  Head turning traffic stopper - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Hyflyer - September 11 - 10:00 am

  When we purchased the sc430 we had to almost wrestle another couple for the keys . People beg for rides,whistle often and generaly thumbs up this curvaciously styled auto. It is a Fine car, well built, solid and QUIET; that does everyday driving with a graciousness, good manners and slippery fast acceleration. We fabricate excuses to take the car for a ride-this one is a keeper .

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  Best Car Ever - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Mike Hintz - August 30 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car on the road today. The sound system is second to none. The top is great. It is more roomy than you would think.

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  My 3rd Lexus Vehicle - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Candace - August 19 - 10:00 am

  This was by far the best car Ive purchased yet. It is a real head turner. I have even had people follow me nerve rackingly too close, just so they could get a good look at the car. The car has a smooth engine that just purrs like a huge jungle cat. The hardtop that folds into the trunk is very convenient. When my husband took the top down one day while sitting in the parking lot of our sons school, the kids who were suppose to be awed by the lecturing firemen who came for an outdoor assembly, turned their heads at our car instead and began shouting oohs and aahs. We were embarassed we disrupted their lesson.

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  The best luxury sports car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By evilgem - August 19 - 10:00 am

  A great car for a long trip with just the 2 of you. Im looking forward to the improvements coming in the next model change.

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  Luxury, Style, Speed - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Car Lover - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Purchased this car a year ago and still loving it. The engine is silky smooth and quiet and will give you awesome acceleration when you want it. The interior is the best around with an awesome sound system and navigation system. The materials used in this car is second to none and the fit and finish is superb. Anyone that thinks a V8 lincoln can out accelerate this Lex is dreaming. The interior is a million times better than any Corvette. Anyone that thinks Lexus uses corolla parts in this car has obviously never driven an SC. The SC430 draws a crowd unlike the outdated vette.

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  Love It - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By joallen - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Performs great. Style is beautiful. It is good to know when I need the power it is there. Most fun Ive had in a car since my 58 TBird.

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  lexuslover - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By momota - July 14 - 1:03 pm

  Despite some saying the back seat is useless, I find it perfect for storage ... golf clubs fit, groceries, small travel bags, etc. This is in addition to extra space in the trunk even with the top retracted. I find it has more room than the z3, z4, audi tt, mercedes slk, etc. Also it has absolutely THE BEST stereo. And it is tons of fun to drive in luxury!

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  I LOVE THIS CAR - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Marie38126 - July 14 - 10:00 am

  This is the second Lexus SC that I have owned, and I have loved both. This one is especially sharp because of its convertible status. I feel safe in the car and have not had any problems with either cars other than the required maintenance...how many others can say this? I looked around when deciding to buy a new car(especially Mercedes-Benz) and couldnt find anything else with almost every luxury amenity that there is,for the price. I would do it all over again. It is definitely a HEAD- TURNER.

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  SC430 thoughts & wishlist - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By oeo - June 18 - 10:00 am

  Overall I no-longer consider the SC430 a sports car. It is a very fine, very reliable, high quality, innovative, high value SPORTY car. It is not a sports car like a Porsche, etc.

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  Lexus - Perfection - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By JerryL3515 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is absolutely wonderful. Could not be better.