With 2 early cars and 2 later cars under our belt the "bumpy" ride in these is par for the course, more so on the early cars and much worse on run-flats. Facelift 6 speed had their shocks softened which helped the ride, imho the wheelbase length is too short. So the model is neither a handling sports car nor a palatial cushy ride got from air suspension Toyota models like the LS430 from same period. And yes the cars do roll a little in faster corners, but overall still represent great value for money for a convertible that gives very little trouble compared with BMW and Mercedes of similar age. In 9 years we have spent nothing other than cam belts, batteries and tires.

 

It doesn't make much sense to compare our SC430's to BMW's or MB's, and if one is having heartburn over the SC's handling, they bought the wrong car! SC's are grand touring cars, which give up handling points to gain comfort points.

That's why I couldn't understand the use of run-flats. In this model's time period, run-flats were harsh as rag-weed, and didn't handle all that great either (on my SC). I was so displeased, not only did I dump the run-flats, but I went with 17" aftermarket, lightweight racing wheels (vs the heavy, 18" OEM's) to get more cush out of the taller sidewalls. I was worried at first I went too far, but the comfort gain was so great, I'm glad I did. I was also worried about giving up cornering prowess, but this was offset by the performance gains of running lightweight wheels. My SC doesn't handle as well on super fast corners, but again, that's not what I bought it for.

 

Driving to Las Vegas with my stock 08 s 430 was a scary experience at high speeds. Big rolling bumps in the road. Do not attempt this.

shock valving is too stiff on high speed compression dampening(sharp bumps) and too soft on low speed compression dampening(big rolling bumps).

springs are too long. Not enough sway bar. Leans on turns from too little sway bar diameter and the long springs compress easily.

my opinion is the poor driving characteristics are why so many of these are around with low miles.

Barely safe at extreme high speed on large rolling bumps.

I went a bit bigger diameter Michelin tires to correct the speedo being off 3%.

‘MeisterR fixed the shock issues sway bars reduced the barge like body roll.

it’s fixable for an application of your cash. See my signature

 

‘Factory rims are DOT approved as far as I know