The Lexus SC coupe received a total redesign and a larger engine for 2002. The first-generation SC ended after the 2000 model year, in preparation for a long overdue update. The new SC was also available as a hardtop convertible, which was a first for Lexus. The SC was again classified as a 2+2, but the back seats were less spacious than the previous ones, which were not very spacious either.
The SC now featured a more powerful engine. The new 300-horsepower 4.3 liter V8 was the same used by LS sedan. The 5-speed automatic transmission would be replaced with a 6-speed later in this generation.
The new SC utilized an advanced antiskid/traction system, which gave the SC a bit more control on slick surfaces than its predecessor.
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It is a fair value. I have seen cars with less miles for same price. The car drove good but had a tire light on. The driver seat was a little damaged. May 27, 2025
by Brent P
Dec 18, 2022
Build quality, V8 engine, interior materials, operable hardtop are superior. Not a 911 in handling but if you want reliable grand touring at a fair price the SC430 is it. Dec 18, 2022
by Tim L
Nov 06, 2022
This is a premium gas well built Lexus with subpar mileage ratings. The car is heavy but because of the “40” series tires will not be a good candidate for winter driving. Leaving that aside the car has the excellent Lexus fit and finish . At 20 years of age these cars will likely be good for many miles with age related repairs being a part of the equation.Nov 06, 2022
User rating:
by Darryl I
May 27, 2025
It is a fair value. I have seen cars with less miles for same price. The car drove good but had a tire light on. The driver seat was a little damaged. May 27, 2025
by Brent P
Dec 18, 2022
Build quality, V8 engine, interior materials, operable hardtop are superior. Not a 911 in handling but if you want reliable grand touring at a fair price the SC430 is it. Dec 18, 2022
by Tim L
Nov 06, 2022
This is a premium gas well built Lexus with subpar mileage ratings. The car is heavy but because of the “40” series tires will not be a good candidate for winter driving. Leaving that aside the car has the excellent Lexus fit and finish . At 20 years of age these cars will likely be good for many miles with age related repairs being a part of the equation.Nov 06, 2022
by Robert P
May 10, 2022
This car is really unbelievable. I just purchased mine after a lot of reservation,, many hours of reading questionable posts and you tube videos on design issues even one where worst car ever was the reviewer consensus. I have had so many cars and only a day in, but I cannot express the pleasure you experience sitting in the 430. This is a car for anyone that does not want to race but enjoys a spirited car with comfort. The category for this car is not defined, and that makes it mid understood. It has power and performance, brakes and aero package to easily say your buying a sports car, but step inside the beast and you lose thought of power with lots of space and driver/passenger (def only 2 seater) comfort. The ride then confused you with planting a smile on your face you cannot explain, feel of duffle roar when you take off drifts to near complete silence as you drive the highway at speed or country roads. You are confused with just how is it possible to be almost sitting on the road and yet feel like your riding a cloud at high/low speed.. the car does not care .. providing exact same incredible experience. It is as unique and rare as any car you will ever come across. The color combos Lexus chose are a bit dated now, but grow on you …. Again, those things you lose when top up or down your riding with a uncontrollable smile. May 10, 2022
by Robert P
Jan 05, 2022
Avoid high mileage models with obvious deferred maintenance. Look for pride in ownershipJan 05, 2022
by Mike J
Nov 11, 2021
I love the Lexus SC430 -- PERIOD. Simply Awesome car! This 02 in rare Midnight Pine Pearl (dark green) color with Saddle leather and Dark Maple wood is stunning. Its my 6th SC430. 5 are very low mileage and driven sparingly on a regimen. But my new Greenie will be my daily driver. So smooth, quiet, luxurious, and fast upon command! Ya gotta have your own! From years 02 to 10 ... all are GREAT!Nov 11, 2021
by Scott C
Aug 22, 2021
This car is fun And being a Lexus I expected to be very reliableAug 22, 2021
by Terry P
Jul 31, 2021
Great hard top convertible. Great for long cruises.. Time lasting shape.Jul 31, 2021
by Mike N
Jan 31, 2021
Smooth ride. Well centered on turns. Seat is comfortable. Plenty of leg room for tall people.Jan 31, 2021
by James O
Jan 20, 2021
A reliable car. If youre buying used, Japanese is a much better bet than German. A bit overpriced though...Jan 20, 2021
by Wendel H
Oct 26, 2020
I wanted a weekend car. The SC430 is comfortable, fun to drive, has all the Lexus features. With the convertible hardtop it’s a year round fun car! Oct 26, 2020
by robert f
Aug 13, 2020
nice car right color no mechanical problems with Lexus
put brakes and tires thats allAug 13, 2020
by Anthony Y
May 19, 2020
Great vehicle. Refined interior. Virtually maintenance free with proper service intervals.May 19, 2020
by Anonymous
Aug 03, 2014
It's hard not to rave about this car! It is awesome…with the hard top convertible it is very quiet on the road, it drives smoothly and is extremely comfortable! Because it is a Lexus, it is incredibly reliable and mechanically sound. We have not had one problem with this car! Aug 03, 2014
by Ladsasiphon P
Aug 18, 2009
Good to own. Own for 7 years with no major repair. 4.3L Engine: Powerful but quiet. Topless by 28 Sec, fastest at that year. Silver colour of Lexus. 2+2 seaters sound like 2 pp + 1 golf bag. Lexus is the best brand.Aug 18, 2009
My SC430 2002 has 15.000 miles and Lexus has put 7 batteries in it. I have heard every excuse you can imagine but no resolution. Now, they have dragged it past warranty and the 'sneak drain' is still there. Who else has this problem? Austin Texas
The remote for my 2002 Lexus SC430 would not unlock the doors today. A new battery for the remote was replaced a month ago. How can this be fixed? Is it a fuse?