Wolfhouse

I'm writing this because the only thing I see online is the negative press about the "useless" second row seating. For me, if it hadn't have had that second row, my only option would have been the Volvo C70. And it really only boils down to 2 main reasons.

1) This is the only coup-vertible that I could fit my 6' 4" frame in comfortably. I tried literally every other in the class including the Nissan 350/370 Z's, Porsche Boxter, BMW Z4... etc. In addition there are VERY few which have a hard top with this configuration. The extra room behind the driver's seat allows more driving leg room, instead of being pressed up against the rear of the car.

2) Given that most convertibles have very limited trunk space (especially with a hardtop), the second row is perfect for storing extra luggage, groceries, etc. that cannot fit in the trunk and you would otherwise have to put in the passenger seat or leave behind.

As a coupe, this second row is just perfect for extra storage and legroom, granted, not for anybody who wants to sit back there, but really, you bought a two-door for a reason.

Just my 2¢. Would love to hear other reasons people have found to utilize this extra space over a traditional coupe. Probably wouldn't have considered this car without the second row, tbh.

Prasha

With the top down, I have put in huge/big things (light) for short distances (no freeway driving)....

kevin3344

Great space for a dog or other animal. We have a large dog and she has the tendency to wander around so we haven't taken her in the SC yet but we could if needed!

JohnnyCake

You mean like a 50 inch television set?

Prasha

jzdulexus

Actually, the second row can be useful for seating people in short distance. One person can sit sideways comfortably and two kids or small size people can also squeeze in for half an hour or less.

Prasha

Once, Me 5'6" my friend 5'7 (FR) his wife 5'2" (RR) and their daughter 4'7" (RL) for 15 min restaurant drive....enjoyed with top down. (freeway +city)

jzdulexus

Yes, I forgot to add that when you put people in the back the top must be down too

rlp1949

I've read postings here that refer to it as the "leather shelf". However, my younger grandchildren could only experience my SC in the back seat. We made it work and they loved it.

Kira X

iTrader: (24)

That's good to hear that you fit in the SC430 comfortably. I inherited a 350Z convertible years ago and it wasn't very comfortable to ride in. I was thinking the SC430 would be pretty comfortable.

I always hear negative things about cars like the SC430 having rear seats and people thinking it's stupid but I feel like most two seaters I have been in weren't that comfortable if you're tall. People said the same thing about the first generation SC, Supra, RC-F, and the LC500 but I've found all of those cars to be quite comfortable.

Lesly1

Before purchasing the Sc for my Wife, I was looking at a Mercedes Sports. The 2 main reasons why I did get the Sc, (1) better reliability, (2) because of the backseat. Not for adults, but for the Grand-kids, although an Adult can sit behind the passenger side with the front seat moved forward.

Chris......From OZ.

Wolfhouse

Re: part (1), having one with a reliable engine was the other half of the easy-sell. Doesn't get much more reliable than a mid 00's Toyota engine! Saw some Solara's for sale and thought there would be no way I could upgrade to a Lexus, based on price, I was pleasantly surprised. Further, when comparison shopping, Mercedes resale value are TERRIBLE, especially compared to a Lexus'. I saw a Craigslist posting for an SC w/ 300k miles for $7K, whether he had to settle for less, idk, but even if someone would consider that says something of it's quality.