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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  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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  Avoid the run-flats - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By cameron durrant - December 17 - 2:00 am

  You will pay more to get run-flat tires. You will get scared when cornering or traveling over uneven toads with these tires. This will change to a feeling of being both terified to drive faster than 30 MPH, expscially in the wet, and annoyance that you will then have to pay even more to change these tires to something like Michelin Pilots which do hold the road. You will be irritated that Lexus chooses to ignore customers who suggest the run-flats do not hold the road. Happy driving, or happy sliding, if you have the run-flats and cant afford to pay more to change them.

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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.

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  Practical, Fun car - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Bill - November 24 - 12:33 am

  Had this car for 12 years, trouble free, fun. Best car we have ever had. Moving to snow country, not practical, so with sadness, it must go!

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  My Perspective - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By frozenSC - November 13 - 2:23 pm

  Overall a wonderful car! Sleek styling and Lexus quality to match. Obviously its nothing more than a two-seater as the back seats arent good for much beyond the briefcase or a bag of groceries. Performance comes alive in the midrange... dont look for fast acceleration off the line but others will soon fear you at about 40mph+

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  Jewel of Lexus - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By jimyboy - November 10 - 10:00 am

  I can tell you that the SC has been the car I have enjoyed, it is fun! Comming from an LS430 I was used to a very soft ride. I would say the SCs suspension is the equivielent to most German cars, and wonderful!! If you are coming from a Porsche or BMW you will think the ride is a bit softer than what you are used to, if comming from a cruiser then you may think its a bit tight, either way 24 hours and you will be in love with the SC. Seats are much more comfortable the German competitors, and engine is quiet which is nice during long drives. The car has personality and carisma that few cars have. Love it!