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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  Fun to drive and be in with top down - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Marvin Roffman - April 11 - 4:30 pm

  I just love this car. Fun to drive and is one of the best looking cars on the road. Very high quality.

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  Love driving my car! - 2006 Lexus SC 430
  By robochis - March 24 - 11:23 pm

  We were blessed to buy a Lexus SC430 four weeks ago. I love driving it, and I especially love the looks and stares that I get from the special color of the Pebble Beach version! Its wonderful on the road; it handles beautifully! I cant wait until the temperatures are warm enough for me to put the top down!! Way to go Lexus!

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  Lexus quality slipping? - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By pgret88 - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I owned a 1997 Lexus SC 400 for six years No problems except a new battery because I left the trunk open. This new 2002 SC 430 has a rattle in the passengers side. The dealer has been trying to fix it for the last year. The last effort two days ago is uncertain.

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  GRRREAT!!! - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By brittany - March 18 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS A GREAT CAR...IT LOOKS GREAT....FEELS GREAT....AND DRIVES GREAT

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  Mostly positives, a few negatives - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By carl lee - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a silver w/ black interior. I have about 1000 mi on it. The negatives are the cup holder is to shallow and drinks can spill out or tip over on turns. I here a metal on metal clink when I go over speed bumps from under the car, dealer said they will fix but thay have not as of yet. Run flat tires are stiff and all road imperfections are transmited to driver and so you feel every bump, pot hole. Otherwise I love the car and am happy I bought it. Very comfortable/

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  Luxury with Style - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Southwest Roadrunner - March 7 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven my car over a year now. There is not much I can say other than this is a sports car with Luxury features. It rides tight yet it is as smooth as a luxury sedan. The more features the better.

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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.