1997 Lexus SC Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The acclaimed Lexus sports coupe received some minor exterior styling revisions for 1997. The SC 300 now had a more aggressive appearance...
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.
What owners say
"Owners of the 1997 Lexus SC generally have a strong appreciation for its combination of comfort, style, and reliability. They love its timeless design and solid performance, especially enjoying the potential for modifications. However, many noted that the fuel economy could be better and the stock performance isn't overly impressive. Overall, it's viewed as a great option for both daily driving and a performance project."
The perfect blend of sports and luxury, perfect for the refined enthusiast... This car, as many other Lexus', is equipped with virtually every ammenity standard. It both looks and performs near perfect, and for the amount of options, luxury, performance and styling you get when you purchase this vehicle, the price cannot be beat. The power, tele-scoping, tilt steering, and the stock stereo are just two of the fine points that will remind you every day that you are driving a Lexus.
September 25, 2007Japanese 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 V8
January 8, 2022awesome with everything, if i were to buy another car it would be the same exact car, it looks great, handles great, has a lot of potential of being way better with mods too, it is fun to drive, gets 30 mpg at 70 mph, best car ever pretty much
April 4, 2012What owners say
The perfect blend of sports and luxury, perfect for the refined enthusiast... This car, as many other Lexus', is equipped with virtually every ammenity standard. It both looks and performs near perfect, and for the amount of options, luxury, performance and styling you get when you purchase this vehicle, the price cannot be beat. The power, tele-scoping, tilt steering, and the stock stereo are just two of the fine points that will remind you every day that you are driving a Lexus.
September 25, 2007Japanese 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 V8
January 8, 2022awesome with everything, if i were to buy another car it would be the same exact car, it looks great, handles great, has a lot of potential of being way better with mods too, it is fun to drive, gets 30 mpg at 70 mph, best car ever pretty much
April 4, 2012I bought this car only a few months ago, but I've been obsessing about it for years. I love almost everything about it from its timeless styling to its quality. One drawback is its somewhat average power (260 HP). It's fast, but not rediculously fast (0-60 in just under 7 sec). Its a luxury coupe, not entirely a sports car. If you are buying this car for performance, get ready to mod. Then again, most car enthusaists like myself enjoy modding so its no problem for us.
March 27, 2008The best review for the 1997 lexus sc 300 is its reliability, style, quality, performance, cargo capacity, gas mileage, comfortable back seating, realistically seats 4 adults, plenty of head room and leg room for tall driver. Car handles great around turns and straight aways.
July 1, 2012I love this car. Its underrated for what it is. Comfortable quick an handles excellent.
January 4, 2021Bullet proof reliability with great potential for more. Great car to own, even better to modify.
February 17, 2008I've wanted one ever since I was little. I've always loved the design of the car, it's a timeless classic. Great, reliable car to use as a performance project. If I could I would own more of them. I may try to get one more at least.
October 19, 2010love the car although the stock performace isnt anything to brag about but i love the platform and the possibilities. the look is timeless toyota was way ahead of there time when they released this car in 92. i use this car as my daily driver and have had no issues at all.
October 19, 2011sticker price is $62k in 1997. only 2048 made. premium fuel only. in 1997 they changed the body style a little to make it more modernized. has real 23k gold badges, antenna trim, and muffler tips that got refurbished at Lexus in the kings auto mall. need i say more?
June 30, 2009
