Jeremy Clarkson memorably referred to the Lexus SC430 as “the worst automobile in the history of the planet” in the Top Gear evaluation of the Japanese grand tourer. The car’s inadequate power, uncomfortable ride, and dowdy styling were criticized by the hosts. We examine Toyota’s large coupe from 2001 twenty years later to determine whether or not time truly does heal all wounds.
My father owns this same SC430, which I’ve had the pleasure of driving every day for the past two weeks while I fixed a few small problems it was experiencing. I’ve commuted for the majority of that time over modest distances, but I’ve also had to relocate a bass guitar equipment several times and had a few drives that lasted over an hour. I know firsthand what it’s like to share a home with this large coupe.
First, the SC430’s exterior has held up well over time. When it was first introduced at the turn of the century, the styling caused controversy; yet, today, the curvy body largely blends in with other more traditional Lexus models of the time. In contrast to the austere lines of the SC430, contemporary Lexus designs appear overdone and complex. There isn’t even a hint of hostility, and the automobile makes no such promises to the driver either.
The body’s slightly unusual curve caused by the retractable roof is lost when the top is down, but even then, it isn’t so irritating that non-enthusiasts would notice or even assume that it wasn’t a coupe. It is simple to choose between the two choices thanks to the automatic mechanism, which operates without a hitch.
The SC430 feels acceptable in terms of power in 2021. The SC430’s 288hp in 2010, its final year, was unimpressive, especially for a vehicle that was clearly capable of crossing the $70,000 threshold. The Mustang GT, meanwhile, only had 260 horsepower in 2001. Only 290 horsepower were available in the NSX. The SC430 wasn’t intended to be a performance vehicle, but it also wasn’t wholly outside of the realm of modern automobiles. In the end, this is still a V8-powered coupe, so when cruising, passing power is never an issue for those lengthy miles.
This automobile excels on lengthy highway stretches. This car was designed largely for comfort, and it excels in that regard. While the Lexus marketing team must have made the suggestion that this car could seat four with a smile on its face, it is a very comfortable journey for two adults. The craftsmanship of Lexus was unmatched in its greatest automobiles during these years, and that shines through in the comfortable seats and pleasant touch points. On extended rides, I’ve felt at ease despite being 6’5″.
In This Article...
When did Lexus cease production of the SC 430?
The Lexus SC430 is a fantastic car with amazing features like a retractable aluminum hardtop, among others. It was a worldwide hit.
The first SC models to include six- and eight-cylinder engines, respectively, were the Lexus SC300 and SC400. However, Lexus still required a convertible despite the arrival of these chic coupes. With the introduction of the SC430, which replaced the previous two SC coupe models, this gap was filled. In April 2000, the SC430 made its debut at the New York International Auto Show.
The Lexus SC430 was produced between 2002 and 2010. The SC430 may theoretically be categorized as a sports car due to its V8 engine, convertible top, and two-seat cockpit, but in practice it was more of a high-end luxury tourer. The car was fantastic for all-season driving because of the one-touch power-folding hardtop, which offered more safety and noise reduction than a normal cloth top.
The SC430’s magnificent, opulently built interior, its smooth V8 engine, and its robust body were among its best qualities. As a dynamic convertible and two-seat luxury car, the Lexus SC430 performed admirably. However, German luxury manufacturers’ models were a better choice for better handling and more powerful performance. The Lexus SC430 had a difficult beginning in the early 2000s, culminating with the Top Gear guys calling it “the worst automobile in the world.” In this article, we’ll find out if that is accurate or not.
What was the Lexus SC 430’s successor?
For the 2014 model year, Lexus intends to expand its inventory with a new performance coupe. The 2010-discontinued SC 430 coupe will be replaced by the two-door performance vehicle.
Can you still buy a Lexus SC 430?
For some time, we have been hearing the rumors and making our own assumptions, but Lexus has officially confirmed it. After July of this year, the SC 430 premium hardtop convertible will no longer be available. The second-generation SC’s exit from the market is long overdue as having endured for nearly ten years largely unmodified (apart from a few special edition variants).
The second half of the previous decade saw a steady decline in demand for the SC430. With 14,462 vehicles at the highwater peak in 2002, 2009 witnessed the sale of slightly under 1000 SC430s, with 720 of those sales being in the United States. About 300 automobiles will be produced by Lexus in this, their final year of manufacture.
The SC430 was no slouch either; with a 4.3-liter V-8 engine producing 288 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, it could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and on to an electronically regulated top speed of 149 mph. Even yet, the SC430 required regular updates to keep current, something the exclusive Pebble Beach Edition cars couldn’t do on their own.
Those who already miss the SC430 might not have to wait long until the rumored 2014 debut of the entire new next-generation SC. The new vehicle, rumored to be called the SC 600h, is expected to have a 5.0-liter V-8 paired with a hybrid electric drivetrain. Follow us for more information.
When did Lexus stop manufacturing the SC?
The Toyota Calty Design Research center in California, USA, was tasked with developing the exterior because coupe types were especially popular in the North American market. Using organically curved plaster moulds that were then scanned and stretched into coupe-like shapes on a three-dimensional computer imaging tool, the work was started back in 1987 and approached in a novel method. At the conclusion of 1989, the final design received approval.
Almost all of the first-generation SC’s surfaces were curved, with the exception of a single sweeping swage line running down the side. It was immediately recognized as having a significant design, predating many other automobiles that later followed similar organic designs. With a mere Cd 0.31 drag coefficiency, it also cut a clean path through the air.
The new Lexus SC had a front engine, rear-wheel drive architecture, as is common for the class, but it also provided room for up to four passengers.
All four sides were suspended using a newly invented double wishbone system, while higher-end models came fitted with an electronically controlled air suspension. An active chassis package that might lessen changes in the vehicle’s attitude when cornering was furthermore offered. This technology included active four-wheel steering, which managed how the back wheels turned and stabilized the vehicle’s attitude.
The third-generation Toyota Soarer had its introduction in Japan at the same time as the new Lexus SC, which made its US debut in June 1991 as a 1992 model. The launch engine on both sides of the Pacific was the highly praised 4.0-litre V8 powerplant already present in the LS. Engine selections varied significantly depending on the market.
Only automatic transmissions with four or five speeds were ever used with the V8. In Japan, a normally aspirated 3.0-litre straight six joined a smaller but more potent twin-turbo 2.5-litre straight six that was initially available. In 1992, the 3.0 liter straight six made its debut in the US lineup.
The first-generation SC underwent only minimal aesthetic changes throughout its outstanding nine-year production run, a tribute to the durable original design. The implementation of variable valve timing across the board in 1997 (the car shown above is from the 1998 model year) actually represented the most significant modification because it increased the power and torque ratings of all engines. Although the model was never formally offered to the UK market, it is well-known on British roads since many were privately imported.
Lexus SC430 dependability
The SC430’s quality is undeniable because of the superb fit and finish both inside and out. It should also prove to be a highly dependable vehicle to own. Despite being relatively new in comparison to its competitors, the Lexus badge is regarded for its high caliber reputation. This helps the SC430’s image as well, despite the fact that, like many of its competitors, it may be seen as more of a cruiser than a sports vehicle due to the curvaceous than dramatic appearance.
What Does SC Stand For?
The letter SC stands for “Sports Coupe” in the Lexus lexicon. It might be difficult to recall because it is one of the only models made by the manufacturer without a S or an X at the end.
What Does GS Stand For?
Grand Sedan is intended to stand for “GS” in order to accommodate the numerous varied sizes of Lexus sedans. The GS is a larger sedan for individuals who value space, even though it is smaller than the LS.
Is Lexus a Toyota brand?
Although it is owned by the Toyota Motor Corporation and has its own headquarters there, the Lexus brand also operates independently.
Lexus SC400 dependability
This is my most dependable vehicle to date. It is very dependable and rather uncommon. Every time, everything is ready to go. I’ve never had this thing leave me stranded on the road. It is also really cozy and makes a fantastic road trip vehicle.
Is the Lexus SC430’s maintenance pricey?
Costs of Lexus SC430 auto maintenance and repairs A Lexus SC430 is predicted to cost between $95 and $5739 for maintenance and repairs, with an average cost of $390.
Which motor powers the SC430?
engine kind (3UZ-FE) displacement V8 3.43 liters (4293 cc) Valvetrain DOHC with 32 valves, Intelligent Electronic Throttle Control System (ETCS-i), Intelligent Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS), and Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (U-LEV) 3.6 x 3.2 inches) Bore x Stroke: 91.0 x 82.5 mm
The quickest Lexus model: which one?
Lexus performance vehicles with the highest power ratings
- 2020 Lexus RC F: 168 MPH.
- Lexus GS F 2020: 168 mph.
- 168 MPH for the 2020 Lexus LC.
- 155 MPH for the 2020 Lexus LC Hybrid.
- The quickest Lexus performance vehicles for the 2020 model year are the Lexus RC F, GS F, and LC models.
Which Lexus, ES or GS, is superior?
Both vehicles use a six-cylinder engine and a six-speed automated transmission. The 2018 Lexus GS boasts 311 horsepower, higher torque, and worse gas consumption than the 2018 Lexus ES, which has 268 horsepower. Unlike the ES, which only comes with front-wheel drive, the GS also comes with all-wheel drive.
What hues were available for the Lexus sc430?
Outside Colors:
- Definitely Red
- Grey Onyx
- Egyptian Pearl Sand
- Blue Ink Pearl
- Pearly Midnight Pine
- Metallic Millennium Silver
- Pearl of Twilight Amethyst
- Gold Crystal White