1997 Lexus SC Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$39,495 to $51,295

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.9

avg user rating

(14 reviews)
1997 Lexus SC Preview summaryImage

The acclaimed Lexus sports coupe received some minor exterior styling revisions for 1997. The SC 300 now had a more aggressive appearance to match its on-road demeanor. A trip computer was also added. The SC had been a very successful endeavor for the Japanese luxury automaker, packaging luxury and performance into a tightly constructed and sleek looking package. Unfortunately, 1997 saw the production of the last manual transmission SC 300s. The 5-speed would only be available in the 400 for 1998 and beyond.

The Sc 300's ride was a bit of a departure from what one might expect from a Lexus. While the suspension still retained some forgiveness, it was tuned a bit stiffer for a better feel of the road. The handling was more Lexus-like, and the rear wheel drive helped the SC hug tight turns at higher speeds. The engine was a 3.0 liter inline six, which made 225 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque. The SC 300 had a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds, and an acceptable sports car fuel economy of 18/23 mpg.

Drivers who follow a regular maintenance schedule report hardly any problems with their SCs. By 1997, many buyers of the original SC had come back for a new model, and they were pleased to see that not much had changed. Lexus had relied on the same same interior styling throughout the SCs run, which featured user-friendly ergonomics and a snug wrap-around layout for the driver. The SC 300's quiet ride and responsive steering are also frequently praised.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 1997 Lexus SC

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User rating:
by Bez H
Jan 08, 2022
Japanese workmanship and quality rivaling any German marque. Sublime ride quality and superior sound isolation. Timeless styling. Major drawback is mediocre fuel economy from its silky V8Jan 08, 2022
by Ty G
Jan 04, 2021
I love this car. Its underrated for what it is. Comfortable quick an handles excellent. Jan 04, 2021
by Anonymous
Sep 06, 2012
classic, one of the best styling, easy to give it go, low maintenance, fun to drive, gets plenty of attention, inspiration, and thumps up from the car gurus who understands the history of the great imports of the 90s, ie Supra, Skyline R34, 300zx, 3000gt, rx7, Silvia (240sx) and of course SC!Sep 06, 2012

1997 Lexus SC Pricing

Original MSRP
$39,495 to $51,295
Price range
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Average price on CG
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YoY price change
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Trims & specs

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · Premium Brand: Nakamichi Audio · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: chrome

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Air Conditioning

Automatic climate control front air conditioning

Airbags

Dual front airbags

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · Premium Brand: Nakamichi Audio · AM/FM radio

Brakes

ABS: 4-wheel

Comfort Features

Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather

Convenience Features

Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: power tilt and telescopic

Lights

Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: heated

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy · Wheels: chrome

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (2)