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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  Underrated - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Bones - February 23 - 4:20 pm

  Very classy car. Interior is wonderful. Car has every option plus many extras. The sound system is one of the best I have ever heard. Engine is crisp and sharp. This is more for cruising than rip roaring performance. Storage is big enough for golf clubs with top down (perfect) Convertible top is a work of art. Looks like hardtop then wham its open air. Take a test ride before you buy something else.

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  Lexus SC 430-2008 - 2008 Lexus SC 430
  By GMorgan - February 9 - 9:26 pm

  I have owned as many as 50 cars in my time. My lexus sc 430 convertible out wins them all. The leather is so soft and inviting that I can ride in the car all day. The sound system is tops, and the driving experience is like none other. The paint on the car is beautiful and I am trying to preserve this car because I do not think that there will be another like it. The body style commands attention, what can I say except that this car has earned the number one place from me!

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  Simply the best - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By XTRMLY Satisfied - January 27 - 7:06 am

  Have two lexus cars in our household. Both cars are an exceptional value. Test drove all german imports and by far, the Lexus has proven to be superior in design, reliablity and price. Being able to afford any traditional vehicle under a 150k we have chosen to picked the Lexus as the clear winner when comparing to other cars in the same price range and even above. I was formally an S class owner and will NEVER go back to Benz after all the problems we had with a 90k dollar vehicle. So my advice to you is to compare wisely, and if I had to pick a second choice it would clearely be the Audi A-8 in the W12 configuration. No the BMW doesnt even come close. Have fun in any purchase.

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  Great Drive - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By fmario - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Its the quiet that gets you. It is a driving experience. Great Product!! It could use a bit more power.

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  Lexus convertible experience - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By C. Bennett - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Lexus SC430 in 2002 and have enjoyed every minute I get to drive it. I consider myself a auto enthusist and have had many fine cars over my life time and rate the Lexus SC430 as one of the best and one of the neatest vehicles to travel in. Love it.

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  macks review - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By the mack - January 22 - 2:00 am

  great car that i have enjoyed driving

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  VERY VERY VERY VERY VERY HAPPY!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Swissair MD-11 - January 21 - 10:00 am

  FROM: tntjackson "A toyota is a toyota is a toyota. Im not fooled here." I WANT TO SPEAK TO THAT YOUNG MAN. DONT YOU DARE LISTEN TO HIM. HE IS WRONG. THE SC430 IS BY FAR THE BEST CAR LEXUS HAS EVER MADE. IT SHARES THE LEGENDARY LEXUS VALUE AND RELIABILITY, WHILE SPORTING AVANT GARDE LOOKS AND POWER.

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  Second SC430 after owning a Mercedes - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By harry h horning - December 23 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Lexus SC430 I liked the first one so much I bought another one even the same color. The quality is better than any car I have ever owned. The drive and performance are different than a German car, not quite the feel for the road or the handling however the relaiblity far makes up for any performance differences. I owned a 2000 Mercedes which was a service nightmare. Am very happy with the Lexus would not consider buying another Mercedes.

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  How to look at the SC430 - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By INDY500atAOL - December 23 - 10:00 am

  The "back seats" are for luggage, not people. (actually for insurance). Its basically a 2 seater, with dummy back seats so insurance costs are lower. You can do 4 people, but its awfully tight...ok for short disdances in a pinch. Ive done it, even rode in the back. Other than that, it is a luxuious 300HP go cart. If you like to get racy, fill the tires to near the limit (44 psi?) It has The Best factory Stereo Ever made.. period.

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  My favorite car ever - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Radford - November 27 - 2:00 am

  The kids are educated and I deserved to the treat for ME! This car is the most fun I have ever had with a vehicle including SL Mercedes and 7 series BMW. Nothing else compares with it.