Lexus SC 430 Review (2001 to date)

Quick Summary

The Lexus SC430 remains an expensive acquired taste but the sting of the big upfront price is removed by buying used. The problem here is that in order to maximise your saving, you'll be looking at one of the less desirable early cars that rode on US specification suspension. If you have got your heart set on a used SC430, there's probably little that will prevent you taking the plunge but if you can wait a year or two for the later cars to start commanding reasonable used prices then you'll snap up a better deal.

Overall:

Models Covered: SCS430: March 2001 to date (4.3-litre petrol 2dr coupe/convertible)

OPEN TOPPED BUT NOT COPPER BOTTOMED

Despite their forays into the compact executive and luxury 4x4 markets most still associate Lexus with the production of big, technologically advanced luxury saloons. When Toyota's luxury division announced that they were planning on bringing an open topped car to market that would rival the Mercedes SL most took the threat seriously. Unfortunately the Sc430 never really proved itself up to the task of taking the fight to the big Mercedes and as a result used values for the few that did sell are distinctly reasonable.There are many cars that seem a bit of a duffer when new but make interesting used cars second time around and the SC430 fits into this category with a significant caveat. Although you'll save a packet on the car's new [price, used values are still falling fast., making a used SC430 a pretty pricey companion on a pence per mile basis. As long as that's clear upfront and you know the nature of this vehicle there's no reason why you shouldn't find a well looked after example rather enjoyable.
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale

History of the SC 430

The SC430 arrived amid a blaze of publicity in March 2001 but initial test drives proved that Lexus had one eye firmly on their biggest market – the US. With its comfy seats, enormous stereo, prodigious thirst and lazy power delivery, the SC430 didn't translate too well to the UK market. One of the criticisms of the original version of this car was that it was too soft for European tastes and remedial action came at the tail end of 2002 with a package of handling changes. The suspension was re-tuned and incorporated different springs and dampers: as a result, say the engineers, the car responded more crisply, yet ride quality and refinement were as good if not better than before. These changes failed to turn the SC430's fortunes around and they remain a rare sight on our roads.In mid 2004, further changes to the suspension were introduced in a bid to boost UK sales and at the same time there were various hi-tech specification upgrades. Then late 2005 saw a very mild facelift, so mild that the layman would be extremely hard-pushed to tell the pre and post facelift cars apart. Look for a set of revised 18" alloys along with slight modifications to the grill, bumper and headlamps.
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale

Lexus SC 430 Road Test

The engine, as we'd expect from Lexus, is electric motor quiet. It's the same 4.3-litre engine we find in the GS and LS430 models, a V8 that's good for 281bhp and that will reach 60mph in just over six seconds. Although hardly slow, you won't feel the need to lean hard on the Lexus, the car preferring to make more serene progress. You never feel shy of engine but the handling is markedly better in later models where the ride suspension has been fettled for European tastes. The earlier cars were baggier round corners and added insult to injury by being rather harsh riding to boot. This ride quality suffered over pockmarked surfaces or tram tracks. Given the tranquility base that is the LS430's ride, this came as something of a surprise. Rabbit punches to the kidneys when riding over expansion joints were an unwelcome novelty in a Lexus.
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale

Buying a Lexus SC 430

There is, amazingly, almost nothing to report. Lexus were determined to make these cars as faultless and long-lasting as possible and it seems they've succeeded. Even the hideously complicated folding hard top has escaped the teething problems that plagued early examples of the Mercedes SLK and Peugeot 206 CC. The main worry with an SC430 will be accident damage or mileage clocking. If you can, check the car's service records and cross-reference mileage with the dealers who carried out the scheduled maintenance. That way, you'll have peace of mind that the immaculate, low-mileage car you're looking at really is just that. Any car imported privately or unofficially from Japan will give you grounds for serious negotiation on price.
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale

Lexus SC 430 Typical Pricing

Prices start from around £28,200 for the first of the 2001 Y plate cars, with a 2003 52 plated example being priced at around £34,775. Considering that car cost £50,670 new, that's quite a fair saving on a car that's barely run in. Insurance for the SC430- is rated at Group 19.
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale

Lexus SC 430 Parts

(approx based on '01 SC430) A new radiator is around £850. An alternator should be close to £710, a starter motor around £450 and rear brake pads would be around £65. A headlamp will be around £375, and expect to pay close to £970 for a full exhaust system (inc Catalyst).
Used Lexus SC 430 for sale