A Classic Lexus SC is Still an Excellent Deal in 2023(Here’s Why)

If you’re looking for reliable budget luxury with a quiet reputation, here are a few reasons why the Lexus SC’s something not to be overlooked!

The Lexus SC’s built up somewhat of a reputation as Lexus’s black sheep for the past decade or so. The Z30 was designed to fill a void in Toyota’s model range, and played second-fiddle to the LS400 when Lexus debuted. And we all know about rather infamous talking points regarding the Z40, such as its handling and lack of driving feel. And let’s not forget when Top Gear named the SC430 as their “Worst Car in the World.”

This notoriety should, in theory, dissuade all but the most dedicated Lexus enthusiasts. Prices don’t paint a good picture, either; used SC300s and SC430s often command far less than German contemporaries. So why on Earth would someone settle for such a pedestrian, mundane vehicle when they could get a modern, better-equipped Toyota that’s likely to last just as long? Well, here are a few reasons for each of the SC models that may help sway your opinion.

The Z30 SC: Lexus SC300 and SC400

Starting life in 1988 and seeing the light of day in 1991, the first-gen Lexus SC remained a quiet staple of Lexus dealerships through nine glorious model years. Known as the third-gen Toyota Soarer in Japan, Lexus equipped the SC300 with the 3.0L 2JZ-GE which undoubtedly needs no introduction. Optionally, the SC400 model boasted a proper V8, the 1UZ-FE, with automatic transmission only. This started something of a trend with SC models. Namely, the engines tend to be absolute units. No matter your opinions of the company, there’s simply no debating that 1980s-1990s Toyotas will outlast the heat death of the Universe if routinely maintained. And a major factor of this reputation rests in the engine bay.

Not that the rest of an SC300/400 is anything to shy away from. The car’s timeless design remains gorgeous to this day. And with early SCs dwindling in number, heads are turning for these curvy vehicles. Their form comes with function as well; its low drag coefficient greatly aids in efficiency and acceleration. The 2JZ’s transmission offerings are likewise bulletproof, with a W58 5-speed manual for the enthusiasts and a 4- and later 5-speed automatic for the cruisers. That’s not even mentioning the fact that, well, it’s a Lexus. Therefore the SC comes standard with state-of-the-art luxury (for the 1990s) and is extremely comfortable on long journeys. From the trademark supple leather seats to premium quality (again, by 1990s standards) sound, the Z30 wears like a contemporary business suit. Functional, with enough luxuries to satisfy, and just flashy enough to look good without drawing unwanted attention.

The Z40 SC: Lexus SC430

At first glance, this vehicle looks like a far more difficult sell. After all, the SC430 holds the illustrious title of Worst Car in the World for a reason, surely. But let’s step back for two seconds and have an honest, pragmatic look at this underdog. The SC430 first debuted in 2001 and, admittedly, it had some mighty big shoes to fill. Especially now that the venerable 2JZ and 5-speed manual was dropped. Coupled with that, the SC430’s handling and response are mediocre at best. As a result, ride feel tends to leave much to be desired. So what’s so good about an SC430 that an enthusiast should choose it over other options for mid-2000s luxury?

Actually, quite a lot, as it turns out.

Firstly, we head back to the notoriously overbuilt engines. In this case, the SC430’s lucky enough to be grandfathered-in to Toyota’s Golden Age. Its 4.3L 3UZ-FE is a modernized rendition of the original LS400 engine – yes, the one that went a million miles and barely noticed. In fact, this engine proved so reliable that Toyota wound up using it in SuperGT, tuned to GT500-spec, through 2008. So, okay, reliability isn’t an issue here, what about luxuries? Well, right away we already have a one-up on the Z30. That being, the SC430’s a convertible. And especially with some good exhaust, that top’s likely to stay down in the summer. The interior’s also generously appointed, of course, with those same plump leather seats, satnav, wood trim, and other very modern features. That’s what makes older luxury cars so desirable – their level of comfort depreciates far slower than their price.

Speaking of Price…

That brings us to the all-important question. If you’re on a budget and want a nice used SC, which do you go for?

Well, on the one hand, we have the Z30. It’s by any metric a very beautiful car, and looks correct for any occasion. This is coupled with a fantastic engine and gearbox selection, plus just enough luxury to lend it a sense of quiet dignity. And let’s not forget that Toyota designed the Z30 as a proper GT car. As such, its handling and ride quality fit perfectly for longer road trips. The car’s no slouch, either, producing sub-7 second 0-60 times from the factory with 5-speed manual. Although with a 2JZ under the hood, the temptation for modification’s an ever-present reality with the Z30. But considering how readily the straight-six accepts frankly ludicrous amounts of power while still being drivable, who would blame you for improving those times a little?

Otherwise, we have the Z30’s far more understated little brother. Let’s say that you’re looking for something more luxurious and well-appointed without sacrificing that reliability. That’s where the Z40 comes in. The SC430’s ride quality remains forever in the shadow of its former self, sure. But let’s say you’re not looking for the ultimate driving experience and want something premium-quality without the premium price. In addition, the fact remains that convertibles provide a unique driving experience all on their own. And let’s not forget that the SC430’s no slouch, either. Certainly not with a 288-horsepower V8 (which can just as easily be improved). And for some, coupled with pedestrian looks and an open top, this makes for an excellent sleeper recipe.

Ultimately, the choice resides in what you’re asking the car to do. Because prices between them often overlap, generally in the high 4-digits. And considering what you’re getting, that’s incredibly reasonable. One thing’s for sure, though. With all the luxury but none of the reliability concerns of older German offerings, an older SC makes for one of the best value-for-money coupes on the market today. Worst Car in the World, they say? We say, keep calling it that. It helps keep the prices down.

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M.C. Cuccio

I've been an automotive aficionado since I had baby teeth. My path was set when I first leaned on my grandfather's classic Porsche as I learned how to walk. One of my first memories was my mother sitting me behind the wheel of her Pontiac and talking me through the instrumentation and controls. Even though I was a mere three or four years old, I was instantly sold, and filled notebooks with technical drawings, sketches, and collections of manuals of all sorts of cars. I've actively tracked developments in automotive and motorsport technology for well over 20 years, and pride myself on being intimately familiar with the functions and history of a wide range of vehicles.

My primary goal as a writer and enthusiast is to equally learn and share what I've learned in a constructive and interesting way. I maintain connections with people from around the world and can read technical manuals in Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, granting me access to a wide array of resources. My primary focuses are deep-dives into historical topics, motorsport discussion, and learning about the complex mechanical elements of such vehicles. As such, my research is never perfect; as anyone into cars will attest, the more you learn about cars, the more you realize how little you actually know. Therefore, I always welcome fresh knowledge and corrections to help me better my work in the future.