Lexus SC 430 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.77/5 Average
469 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 361 through 370 of 469.00
  • The Lexus Dream SC430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    This is a LUXURY sports car. Dont be fooled by reviews that think this needs to be a Ferrari in the corners, but it certainly holds its own. There is so much automation in this car, you have to do very little to drive down the road. Everyone I show the car and give rides to is in awe of the fantastic look, feel, ride, and comfort provided. I have the run-flat tires, but only 1000 miles so far with no complaints so far. It is as fun with the top up as it is down. If you need to move 3 or 4 our people a lot, this is not your car. It is good for the occasional short run to lunch with 3.

  • a must - 2002 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    a must for high rollers. the car has a smooth ride and it is better than the bmw radster(I know because I own a new one)

  • JFs review - 2005 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    The car is fun to drive. Smooth, yet powerful. You cant feel the trans shift up or down. The cabin is quiet, and the sounf system is impressive with the speakers placed juast right. The top folds quickly and queitly into the trunk. Road noise is not a problem when talking with the top down. One drawback is that the runflat tires are somewhat noisy. Occasionally you can feel the pull from one side to the other.

  • Fun to drive - 2005 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    This sports coupe is so much fun to drive. From the minute I get behind the wheel my heart starts to race. This SC is a real winner, whether on the highway or just driving local. If youre looking for a convertible this is it.

  • SC430 A GREAT, FUN CAR - 2003 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    Ive owned several sports cars and other fun cars, but none compares to the fun and exhillaration of driving the SC430. The quality of this car is the defining trait---from design of interior and exterior to the engine and transmission. Then there is the aspect of it being a hardtop coupe changing to a convertible in 25 seconds. Give it a try when shopping for porsches, bmws, mercedes, etc!

  • An oustanding car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    I highly recommned this car it is one of the few cars that you dont serve, it serves you, making sure you are as comfotable as possible at all times. Get one.

  • SC 430 - 2008 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    This is a great reliable car. Workmanship is excellent. Our last car was a 2005 Corvette and it spent many days at the repair shop. This car has never had any repair problems and it has 36,000 miles on it. I would strongly recommend this car.

  • My 2003 SC 430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    I love this car, my 4th Lexus. The style is sharp, the interior comfortable and very classy looking. Holds the road great.

  • Great & its not even summer - 2006 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    I think the GPS is very intuitive and Ive never used one. I activated the bluetooth without the manual and it definitely works when the car in moving. Hearing the other party is much better than my other cars bluetooth hook up. I even like the token back seat that holds my son until hell move to the front. I love the headlights that go around the corner and the seats that fit like a glove. Im not thrilled that it asks for premium fuel but thats not a big deal. I cant wait to drop the top this summer but love the fact that the PA winters are not harming a soft top while waiting for summer to come.

  • Hands Down the Best Convertible availble - 2002 Lexus SC 430
    By -

    Ive been driving my car for the past couple of months and i love it!!! ive driven various convertibles and couples before and the acceleration and handling on the SC430 is phenomenal, and the styling inside and out is just breath taking... RETRACTABLE HARD TOP and Navigation System makes this car even more awesome... and with my bad back run flats are an absolute heaven sent.

Lexus SC 430 Reviews By Year:
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