5 Things We “HATE” (and LOVE) About the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible (ClubLexus Review!!!)

“HATE”

2. Six-Figure Pricing

The ClubLexus LC 500 Convertible loaner vehicle stickered for just under $112,000, which puts it in line with the BMW 8 Series Convertible as well as the Mercedes E Series Cabriolet. To be fair, the LC’s engine (more on this in a moment) stands out above those models, but those cars also have useable rear seats and trunks. And because of things like the weight and lack-of-space and the wonky infotainment system, the LC 500 feels hard to justify at this price. Sure, most LC 500 buyers aren’t going to cross-shop American cars, but Mustang, Camaro, or Corvette convertibles cost a lot less and they’re genuine sports cars.

As such, I’d personally argue that the LC 500 convertible is an amazing $85,000 car, but a little overpriced now. I’d much rather pick one up on the used market in a few years.

LOVE

2. Glorious 5.0-Liter Engine

While it would be nice to see something pushing past 500hp, I adore the LC’s 471hp V8 engine. 5.0-liters. Dual overhead cam. 32-valves. 398 ft-lbs. of torque. This thing drives smooth and quiet down low. But mash the pedal all the way past 7,000 RPM to unleash a glorious cacophony. In a tunnel, it becomes a symphony of internal combustion. Less guttural than American V8s, it almost sounds like something out of a Lamborghini or Ferrari and, quite honestly, Lexus-Toyota needs to put this engine into more cars. (Looking at you, Supra.)

Michael S. Palmer

Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.