Carpe Diem

I don't have the production numbers close at hand but I think saying the the SC300/400s sold well is arguable. I'm sure there are lots of reasons why they weren't a raging success. Maybe through that experience, Toyota learned that if you want to sell a high-end SC you sell only a high-end SC.

George

LexusPride

The SC300/400 didn't sell well because the market for sports coupes died quite a few years ago, hence the discontinuation of the Camaro/Firebird. MB doesn't sell alot of CLs and BMW sells more 3 -series sedans than coupes (although they have a real backseat). Lexus was one of the last luxury car companies to make a convertible so the decision was obvious. Also, you have to wonder what percentage of former SC owners are now current SC owners, as both the look and the price have changed considerably. As it stands, the GS is the only dual engine platform (maybe the IS soon), and the engine upgrade at $8k is the only discernible difference, so an SC330wouldn't be that bad. I know my wife refuses to get one because she's concerned about the gas usage and the additional power, and let's be honest here, an SC330 would most likely cost around $52, not exactly at everyone's affordable price point nationwide.