Top Gear LIED To You About The Lexus SC430... It's Perfect

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Thank you to Walser Lexus Of Wichita for letting me borrow this! www.lexusofwichita.com/
When you think of the ultimate Lexus you might think of the LFA... but you can buy this V8 super luxury "sports" car for the price of one wheel off the LFA. The Lexus SC430 was an absolute triumph. It had unheard of technology for the time in a package that kept it all out of the way and understated. It has one of the best factory audio systems you'll hear in your life, it was designed by Mark Levinson and can play at outrageous levels. It has an excellent convertible hardtop that's aluminum to keep the weight down (especially up high where it matters). That's all powered by the one of the worlds smoothest 4.3L V8 engines and a 5 speed automatic transmission that does everything it can to make the shifts disappear.
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#Lexus #SC430 #04Rich

[@WatchJRGo]

Correction: The Crown Vic/Towncar kept the cassette player one year longer... until 2011.

[@toyota420xp]

If that was a bmw/merc the top would be broken

[@AzTurboMini]

There are a couple in AZ that look pretty darn good (in the pictures) both asking $7900 and both have clean titles. One is in Scottsdale and the other is in Phoenix. Both are on craigslist. I can look at either if needed. ✌️

[@Blackinterceptor999]

Yup, sure did! my '99 has one as well, though I will eventually upgrade to a modern unit after my engine and suspension upgrades are sorted.

[@tonyneves1388]

They copy Mercedes SLK from 1996!!!

[@randyarock]

Yep, I was coming in here to say the very same thing. My Crown Vic had that cassette in it from the factory far longer than 06.

[@JackDonatello-dp1lx]

My grandfather passed recently, and I am currently flying down to visit w/ my grandmother. She’s giving me his car, and it’s this exact model and color. Excited to see such good reviews, will keep this baby in pristine shape in memory of him. Great video

[@whattheworld5980]

How you like the car bro?

[@captaininsano6693]

Back in mid 2000s my uncle won one of these through a company raffle. His was black with peanut butter interior, I remember the stereo was awesome too. Keep up the awesome content man

[@WatchJRGo]

Black/saddle looked incredible too! It was that super deep triple black 🔥

[@user-sf7kl9uh7k]

Did he swap it for a bag of peanuts and a satchel full of old newspapers?

[@mxm5757]

​@user-sf7kl9uh7k I remember the gas cap and sun visors being truly amazing

[@ChristianBoday]

Love my absolutely red with acru leather. Still in awesome condition with 129k on the odometer.

[@justcollectingdust]

@@ChristianBoday Seriously, it is not even broke in yet.

[@Kingwboxing]

Top Gear always hated on Lexus. They said this car had no soul. The cars they said had soul had all types of reliability issues.

[@rob5944]

Possibly because they don't have to foot the bill, overgrown schoolboys that they are.

[@1968roadrunnerred]

You are bold and not afraid of your opinions. Keep it up sir.

[@DESTRAKON]

Right, why change your views to impress people you don’t even know lol

[@davidmagen415]

I have a 2002 SC430 . No it’s not a sports car, was never supposed to be. It’s a GT. A super high quality build. In my minds eye it’s a collectible in the future. I love it. Mine is gold and saddle interior too🏖️

[@jonor3370]

As a Dealer Principal of a Lexus dealership in the UK, I used to run them as demos, I had 3 (red and 2 blue) amazing build quality, way better than a SL at the time.

[@ChristianBoday]

Love my absolutely red

[@mrpoohbearlvr]

It's guaranteed that there isn't a single Mercedes hardtop convertible still working at this age without hosing you down with hydraulic fluids squirting out everywhere, and costing up to $10,000 to replace all the hydraulic lines etc ....WHEN they break! This is a real quality hardtop convertible, bulletproof.

[@P.Galore]

If you want an SC430, they are ALL in Sarasota FL. Literally. Everywhere.

[@WatchJRGo]

Facts, in close proximity to old folks homes 😂

[@grinner68]

I live up the road in St. Pete, and the same is true here. Until I bought mine, I never noticed them. Now I see them everywhere!

[@joescanlon939]

Thank you for the report on the Lexus SC 430. I learned a lot. I bought my 2002 in March of 2022 and loving every min. It is Red with the saddle interior and 150,000 mi., with a few minor problems. A previous owner replaced the radio with an aftermarket one, so I don't have use of the GPS panel. That and a few other minor glitches but i still drive it almost every day. It is in such good shape when i ask people what year do they think it is they usually reply 2019 or newer. Thanks again, One happy old guy in Surprise, AZ💕

[@danielchristopherdc]

The styling is timeless, it can still pass for a new model

[@robertmiller1442]

I had a 2002 SC 430 Blk / Egg Crew for 7 years & very trouble-free! But my only problem was the tires were only run-flat tires & gave the car a very rough ride which when you think of any other Lexus sold at that time were known for their smooth ride, I kept damaging the wheels because of this, Since you had no spare tire & only a Lexus dealership could fix the tires you had to only go to them to have it fixed. So by now hopefully this problem has been solved. Enjoy your car it was a very special car & much better quality then & now compared to their completion M, Benz, and Porsche which were $30,000 more expensive.

[@Ryan-vj9bl]

I have a Range Rover Supercharged and a Mercedes S550 as well but my 2007 white on camel tan leather SC430 is fuckin PERFECTION. It has newer suspension, headlights/taillights, LED instrument cluster and most important the SIX 6 speed transmission mated to that 4.3 liter timing belt BEAST of an engine. It shifts effortlessly before 3000 RPMs keeping it extra smooth. I test drove a ‘03 black one which peaked my interest but the updated transmission etc make all the difference with this masterpiece of an automobile. The LS430 has examples of 1,000,000 miles on the original transmission/transmission- if you handle the timing belt and water pump etc with genuine parts this might be one of the best engines ever built…

[@althe]

5-bolt main bearing engine. a $100 electronic throttle controller on a 2003 5-speed will outperform the 6-speed.

[@benryzebol8349]

I would agree, Top Gear was very wrong, they were just envious that the Brit’s hadn’t built anything of this quality in a long time and that Lexus did it right at the start of the model. Why do I know this, I have a 2003 model and it is a very comfortable and quiet cabin with all the goodie’s of it’s time which was well ahead of it’s time. Just a fun evening or weekend cruiser.

[@grinner68]

Great review! They really are a lot better than most people think. And because they are a Lexus, you can get a high mileage one and know it will last for years. I bought a 2004 with 180,000 miles on it for $6500 two years ago, put some money into doing deferred maintenance (timing belt, new tires, suspension) and it’s been my daily driver ever since. Great car for Florida (and you see a lot more here than elsewhere). It also is fast enough. I expect to have mine for many more years, and if something ever happens to it, I’m gonna replace it with another one!

[@adamstone8537]

How much did the suspension refresh, timing and belt run you. I have one being delivered today. Looking into same exact maintenance items!! Glad you love the car.

[@grinner68]

@@adamstone8537 timing belt replacement included water pump and all pulleys and as about $1200. Four new struts and control arms was close to $2k. All at an independent mechanic, not the dealer. About a year after those were all fixed, the steering rack developed a bad leak the alternator failed, so I had to have them replaced as well. But that’s the cost of owning an old car.

[@adamstone8537]

@@grinner68 indeed !

[@davidmagen415]

@@adamstone8537 I replaced the timing belt water pump upper control arms and coolant. I think it was about $3500. At the dealer.It will run for ever 🏖️

[@nathandrums0]

It’s still hideous though lol.

[@arri275555]

I visited Japan in the summer of 2001, and I had the opportunity to see the Toyota Soarer before it was exported to US as well as many other products. I absolutely loved the time I spent in Japan.

[@riderforchrist2755]

The Supra was already being sold in the US in 1992 as a 1993 model year...

[@jacobfleming565]

​@@riderforchrist2755 how is that relevant? wtf are you talking about?

[@riderforchrist2755]

@@jacobfleming565 first the Toyota soarer was designed as the Lexus SC for the US market it was also the basis for the USA Supra introduced in 1992. So Colon didn't see anything new in the soarer.

[@arri275555]

@@riderforchrist2755 Thanks for the reply. I know the SC was in the US in the early 90s. However, the model that I was talking about was introduced in 01 and was introduced in 02 for the US model year. So, for me seeing it in the summer of 01 in Japan was new. You claim I didn't see anything new when I was there explain what I did not see?? Also, you think you we're clever calling me Colon.

[@perpetualcollapse]

@@riderforchrist2755 🤡

[@stevevlahos5469]

I remember when this car came out. I thought it looked beautiful. The other day I saw one parked and thought wow this thing still looks great for it’s age. Timeless. I didn’t know about the stereo. This would definitely be a nice car to just cruise around in.

[@danielchristopherdc]

Definitely a beautiful, timeless design.

[@supraschnauzer]

I agree with this video. The SC430 is an amazing car and super reliable. If someone is talking crap on this car I almost guarantee they haven’t owned one. I’ve had 2 so far and I love these cars. The hard top drop top is awesome.

[@danielchristopherdc]

Or they worship Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond 😂😂

[@Blackinterceptor999]

That car would be a good candidate for a supercharger and exhaust upgrades, it has potential.

[@rob5944]

They raced them in Japan in the gt500, with forced induction making 500hp

[@xclear1874]

Honestly crazy you just uploaded a video of an SC430, legit one of my dream cars that I'm working towards buying right now and there's just like no content out there of them!

[@danryno]

I'm 3rd owner 2005 P.B. Edition. Black /red interior. bought June 2021with just short of 70k miles. Absolutely incredible car. 23.8 MPG @ 85 MPH. Had a guy in a Porsche Spider follow me into a parking lot and ask what it was. Head turner wherever we go. Had never seen one when I went to buy it from second owner. 16,000 miles in 2 summers. The only car my wife and I LOVE to drive. KInd of need a second one! Unlike any SPORTS car, it will run forever with regular maintenance. My grandchildren love getting picked up at school in it. Everything you said was spot on if not a little understated. Thanks

[@igglybiggly6951]

Fun fact....designers studied yachts and interior is modeled after that craftsmanship....beautifully done wood by Yamaha and buttery smooth 3UZ V8 for ultra reliability. Values are creeping up.These are definitely going to become classics and the stereotype of country club Golden Girl drivers put to rest

[@martindouglass3248]

I think the only mistake Lexus made on this car was naming it the “SC”. If they’d gone with GT or even LC the expectations would’ve been more matching to how great a touring convertible it is.

[@verysage1]

2005 SC430. Original owner. Every time I take it out, as least one compliment and numerous Thumbs Up. 140k miles. When I want a sport car, I drive my AM Vantage (2006). Great video

[@danielchristopherdc]

The AM is also a fantastic car with a timeless design!

[@Rose-tu3vk]

How is the reliability and repairs? Looking into getting a used one

[@misterfeedback202]

My neighbor owned a Ford Dealership, but ordered this car new. He never drove the Lexus to the Dealership. He loved this car.

[@BSGSV]

Thank you, JR, for showing us the SC430. I never had an opportunity to own one, but always saw it as a truly beautifully designed machine. I agree with your assessment: it was designed to be elegant and for people who could afford it (older folks), not kids looking for a hot rod.

[@patienceisavirtue]

I so enjoyed this video. I own a 2006 SC430 and I love this car so much. You’re right when you open or close the top it stops people in their tracks. I’ve put mine up for the fall winter season, but this video has me itching to pull it back out! 🔥

[@paulfmurphy617]

Old car guy here. Back in my youth I worked at a Boston Law Firm from "92" to "2011" I had access to two company cars. the original Q45 and the SC430. They were both great cars. 280Hp was huge in the early 90's

[@sheilabrown5274]

I enjoyed your segment on the SC430; I have a red 2002 and to this day I get oohs and ahs! I fell in love with it as soon as I spotted it sitting out front of a dealership, around 2008. Though a great car, there are some problems that are widely known, that should have been mentioned. Something routinely drained the battery when left undriven for a week, even less. Some think the drain comes from the sound system, as great as it is. One side mirror doesn't adjust now, the cup holder will not open, nor the screen cover. I think my husband is going to install a whole new system to provide navigation, bluetooth, radio, etc. I hauled the car from NC to Florida where we lived for 10 years (didn't park it in the garage but left it in the hot Florida sun) until the clear coat peeled off and I had to get it repainted. Now, back in NC, it is garaged. She's an old girl and deserves some love and pampering, and she still turns heads!

[@igeekone]

Same here. Got to experience a 1st gen champagne gold with the cream colored interior in the early 2000s. Man was that luxury. I was blown away as it was also my first time experiencing HID headlights. This exudes early 2000s luxury. I have a soft spot for this car.

[@bernard-francoistaylor4205]

Love that car since new. Always been a Lexus SC fan. My dad had a SC300 5-Speed. My mother a ES with a 5-speed. Beautiful car, especially with the Cognac interior and bamboo wood. I also love the glass wind deflector between the rear head rest

[@russellarendt5565]

1959 Ford Skyliner, Indian turquoise body with a white top, matching interior one button top operation a beautiful car with unique convertible top. Ahead of its time. I owned one 1967-69 till drafted and went to Vietnam.

[@meerjalali1690]

I have a SC430, I think it’s completely standard, but mine does 0-100 in under 6 second when I flip the power button. My car is super scary fast! I luv it!

[@DudesaidMIKE]

Honestly, coming from a Jaguar XK/XKR owner, these cars pull no punches in terms of comfort and sheer grand touring ability. The Jaguars got more pace and handling, but driving a handful of these they’re nothing to dismiss. If you’re ever in Nashville, you’re welcome to drive my 05 XKR convertible. Rare Zircon Blue/Tan spec, one of less than 300 for that generation.

[@dmocksautosnstuff]

Parents had one white on white blonde wood sticker was just over $62,000 and it had everything for a 2003 Navi. 6cd player and great sounding speakers never drove it much they gave it to me I also barely drove it garaged kept for 2 year it had 4500 mile so image how sad it was when my mom and dad had to sell it. Then I went to a 2006. mustang gt in the yr of 2006 But I still until today want that white on white sc430. Again But very hard to find In realy good condition for a decent price. Value is still high for a good example 😢

[@EpicTyphlosionTV]

Reminder that they put the Aventador in the "Seriously uncool" section of the cool wall

[@WatchJRGo]

It's probably the greatest car ever made so of course they did 😂

[@gbrkura4467]

I am Japanese. This SC430 is an early model of the Lexus brand and has been made with great care. It was priced at $80,000 at the time, has a V8 engine, and a sturdy chassis, so as long as you maintain it properly, it's a car you can drive for another 20 years. In Japan, enthusiasts are buying it back, and the price has gone up since then. Please take good care of it.

[@rajivsingh1999]

Mine has 200k miles, I just bought it for 2500$.. pretty clean. For the mileage

[@kyledesiderio_]

I’ve always had a soft spot for these, I owned a scale model when i was young! Thanks for the super detailed tour!!

[@Jacob-xd3ko]

this was and still is my first dream car. Love this thing.

[@Robsav-yx6vi]

Jr . Just wanted to make this comment to you . Your reviews and opinions on cars are always appreciated. I wish you had a show on TV . Well done !

[@williampeeters7327]

Be careful what you wish for. A TV show would not be nearly as good.

[@davewhiteley9717]

I've been driving 1 for 3 years now. Your so right. I did take the run flats off.

[@ezesrebuilds1174]

Everything about this video is simply perfect. Thank you.

[@808jpm]

I just saw one on the way to work a few months back and nearly messaged you hoping you would do a video on this car. That 1st gear is pretty tall.

[@Tony-kn9vt]

I have a 2005 in silver, and will never trade it in! Such a great 2nd car. My antenna does the exact same thing! Even though mine is pushing 20 years old, these things are designed to last & built like a tank. I believe these sold for closer to $65k, not $80k

[@grayfool]

Top Gear always talked out of their own exhaust.

[@tardeliesmagic]

He said overall as for the price & what you really get for it ie reliability,mpg,handling,the quality of the ride,cost of ownership,costs of servicing,cost of parts,re sale value and so on.

[@danielchristopherdc]

I’ve loved my ownership experience for the last 6 years. I added Meister R coilovers, Rays Gram Lights wheels, straight piped exhaust, quantum auto ecu and tcu tune. Mine is red with saddle brown interior and I get compliments all the time. The mods I did really make this car a true joy to drive spiritedly!

[@ChristianBoday]

Wish I had the brown leather , mines is red with acru, brown seems to hold up really well like the black and orange leather.

[@JuanCarlosGonzalez-vp8cq]

Where did you get the straight pipe exhaust?

[@danielchristopherdc]

@@JuanCarlosGonzalez-vp8cq just went to my local muffler shop

[@danielchristopherdc]

@@ChristianBoday I love the brown leather as well

[@danielchristopherdc]

@@JuanCarlosGonzalez-vp8cq my local muffler shop

[@sleepyhollow783]

My 1985 Cressida has a birthday date reminder on its dash "computer". Nice to see the odd idea live on well into the 2000s.

[@henrykim4230]

This is one car I regret not buying. One of the first hard top convertibles back in the early 2000s. This ain't no garbage Mercedes that spews hydraulic oil all over the seat. Only draw in this car is the timing belt service.

[@rickykraus7450]

The Birds Eye maple is a nice touch.

[@MOSTWANTED1908]

IM SO EXCITED FOR THIS VIDEO, nobody ever makes videos on the SC430. Iv owned mine for 4 years. I bought it off my dad. Its a 2005 and i just hit 283,000 miles today! I bought it off my dad at 259,000. He was the original owner

[@runwillrobinson]

Those are really solid cars. I recall that the mooks on Top Gear said they rated it so poorly because it was such a disappointment. I don't get it.

[@jamesfleming3327]

My wife and I almost bought one, but reneged due to no back seat and we still had kids at home in school. Loved the ride, smooth V8, and top quality build and lovely interior, including the perfunctory semi-wood steering wheel! There's very little to fault, but the style can be polarizing. We ended up getting a VW Eos, man what fun, quick and reliable car with a retractable hardtop - the only one with a sunroof too!

[@mechanicalintentions5431]

Finally one of my KZbinrs get one on their channel! I love my 06’ SC

[@paulsolovyovsky1702]

It's not a bad car, not a lot of space and handling is wonky. We still have the same one in silver and everything still works. The good news is that the TB/WP is the same as the GX470 and if you swap the run flats theres a space for a spare. It will drive for 300k miles and the convertible still works unlike most MB or BMWs. BTW, have the same wheels and Sam's club refused to replace tires because of the cover. The seats are better than any current Lexus, still no issues after 85k miles and 22 years

[@DESTRAKON]

British guys tend to complain a lot so I always took it with a grain of salt

[@Cartier_specialist]

I always wanted to own an SC430 but they hold their value like nobody's business.

[@WatchJRGo]

They sure do! It's one of the few cars that lives up to the value too 💯

[@lostgps3005]

Over here in the UK they're pretty cheap but starting to creep up some nice examples under 10k

[@Cartier_specialist]

@@lostgps3005 It must be the negative image that Top Gear put out there.

[@lostgps3005]

@@Cartier_specialist yeah, probably and good for me since I want one but the insurance seems to much

[@jrmason]

I had one of these come into the shop for audio issues. The door speakers were deteriorated (they are 6x9" in the lower door) and the amp would just shut off in about 10 seconds of being on. The DVD was missing. The door for the radio was broken and the motor was just missing. Just too much wrong with it. The factory speakers run at 8 ohm vs the typical 4 or now 2 ohm. The guy didn't want to spend a lot of money to refurbish it and have 20yr old tech and I don't blame him. Luckily Metra makes an installation kit for the dash and I ended up just replacing the 6x9's with Diamond Audio shallow models I used the rest of the door speakers since they were good. I bypassed the factory amp since it had issues and just ran the door speakers to get him some sound with a Sony high power radio. In the end it worked out very well. Maybe in the future he want to go further and do the rear speakers, amp and power the factory 7' subwoofer. I think it was also 8 or 10ohm. Fun times! I think the Mark Levinson replacement door speakers are $300 each BTW. Have a good one JR! -Jon

[@dgibbs8851]

The 2002 was rated at 300hp. I think it dropped to 288 in later years when they changed the transmission.

[@heshamsaleem]

It’s called Egyptian sand pearl, not gold but it was great to see a full length review of it. I bought one new in 03 and had it up until last year. The 06+ got the much needed 6 speed auto trans. But it’s too bad they never offered a manual. It would’ve elevated the driving experience severely. The mark levinson sound system was the crème of the crop at the time but by now, every sc430s speakers would be blown or distorted. There is a guy in florida who restores the original sound system back to oem spec which I highly recommend over doing an aftermarket setup. Lexus no longer offers updated dvd maps so just stick to using your phone.

[@johnct2012]

I had an 07 for 4 years and loved it. I ended up replacing it with an MR2 Spyder. The SC was a wonderful car but at the end of the day it was a little heavy for spirited driving and I was able to get a better luxury experience from my LS430 UL. Still one of my favorite cars but I only have so much room for fun cars with different experiences.

[@xavierramirez330]

Nice we had an sc430 and now I have an mr2. I miss it though

[@johnct2012]

@@xavierramirez330 I'd probably miss the SC430 more if I didn't also have an LS430 but 9 times out of 10 I do not miss the SC430. That 1 time out of 10 is when I'm reaching for the non existent cruise control in the MR2

[@317kidscars4]

I have its bigger brother the LS430. I can't seem to find a car I like to drive better on long trips. Plenty of cars are more fun, but the LS is just to easy to keep. Drives great, reliable, easy to maintain.

[@xiongher3080]

I had a 02 few years ago, end up wrecking it. Now got a 06 with the 6 speed tranny. Car seems heavy but feels so light when cornering.

[@alanarzate93]

I live in cali and for some reason these cars have sky rocketed in price just like every other car

[@nicholasbabeaux2052]

Really, I live in SoCal and you could still pick up these things all day long perfect condition for under 7K. They have gone up and value a little bit, but there are a ton of them.

[@tadpole9364]

My SC430 antenna was stuck when I purchased it. With if fully extended clean it and lightly lube it and that should do the trick. Worked for me.

[@RyanGalt]

Nonbiodegrading interior sure holds up!👍

[@johnwhitlock1042]

Most dependable car I ever or wned. I had Champagne and Saddle leather which was gorgeous. Run flat tires sucked and the handling wasn't that great but the build quality was excellent and the interior materials were top notch.

[@grayparatrooper]

They are so comfy to drive. Ive always liked them..also those wheels look great on a ls430

[@stephenmcnulty7096]

awesome car! Thanks for showing it. It is one of my favorites!

[@jimdieseldawg3435]

I remember Martin Grech’s “Open Heart Zoo” being used on the British TV ad for the SC430 with Mark Levinson system. Quite the (excellent) track for testing any ICE build. Sounded flat when limited to the frequency band of contemporary GB TV broadcasting and the built-in speaker (singular) of most TVs in GB at the time though 🙂

[@KnightIndustries572]

I used to work at a Toyota dealer, my boss had a black one of these with the white interior, just beautiful. I have a top spec '12 Lexus IS350, but I'd still LOVE one of these SC430's. The problem with the motoring journos is they were comparing or expecting a Porsche 911 competitor, so as a sports car it 'failed' but as a beautiful comfortable, OPULANT convertible it's almost unsurpassed. It's like a Bentley continental on a budget..oh.and IT WORKS, won't break or send you broke!

[@dna59]

Glad you enjoy the Mark Levinson sound system in it because replacing it is a pain.

[@mschmitz57]

Top Gear wasn't a serious automotive program. It was a comedy.

[@signalfire6]

Run by an absolute AH. That show is insufferable.

[@theBoomerDoomer]

I worked for a doctor that had one of these. I thought it was such a cool car... I was so sad when he traded it for a BMW 8 series convertible that seemed to spend more time in the shop than it did on the road.

[@jimquantic]

Thanks for not being stupid, or a hater, the two words that come to mind from most reviews of this fine car.

[@GTSam]

"Perfect" might be a stretch. But still a reliable Lexus!

[@junkmail7441]

You nailed it JR. I bought one of these used several years ago after loving them when they first came out. I was very sad to see the Top Gear episode, which kind of took something away from the owner experience for me. Thank you for giving this amazing car the praise that it deserves. I actually quit watching Top Gear because of that episode lol

[@starkyslp16]

I appreciate that the styling was actually unique even though it wouldn't be my pick. It's not the best at anything, but good at everything.

[@texan176]

Sadly, they did not sell enough of them to add major upgrades beyond the 6 speed transmission and facelift in 2006. The LS430 got the 6 speed in 2004 so it makes you wonder if they were going to pull the plug on the SC after the 2004 model year but decided to go ahead and upgrade it in 2006 after deciding to keep it around longer. At this kind of price it should have had smart keys, parking sensors, and a backup camera which it never had during the entire production run. It is probably the best hardtop convertible you can own without a warranty. The tops tend to not have troubles like most others do.

[@Sumppen]

Mercedes SLK class had similar hard top since 1996, for a much lower price. Only 2 seats, but as you said, the rear seats on the SC430 are pretty unusable anyway

[@normellison5347]

Like the SLK but maintaining them is costly .

[@LuckysMotorcycles]

If Top Gear didn’t poop on the Lexus sc430 …………. I may not have been able to afford mine !

[@drewgunn3134]

My 2004 SC is my daily. 155k trouble free miles. Like new !

[@boriss.861]

John I think Top Gear's Richard Hammond is just being sarcastic and being tongue in cheek. It's British Ironic humour (oops humor) saying things are bad just when they are not. The Spoken negative is really a positive.

[@readventurekids]

To dismiss this car is everything I despise about mainstream British motor journalist snobbery.

[@69Dartman]

Didn't those have a nice V8 in them? I remember when the normal Lexus sports cars came out and we were working for a retired Dr. He had a lexus and he said it was the best car he'd ever owned. I always thought the Coupes with the Toyota V8s were cool smooth cars.

[@WatchJRGo]

They sure do, one of the smoothest running ever, a little underpowered though 🍻

[@69Dartman]

​@@WatchJRGoI have a 06 Charger RT and it is a fat, but quick, pig, and it gets horrible mpg. I could take very smooth and cool, plus I bet it gets way better mpg too.

[@williamegler8771]

TOP GEAR presenters were also of the opinion that Brtish manufacturers built well designed reliable and durable vehicles. That just shows everyone has a opinion and it is important to come to your own opinion and not automatically believe the opinions of others!

[@bryan9857]

That engine in the ls430 is gold. They even tuned it to engine brake on hills…talking a downshift to almost 4000rpm and you can’t even feel the engine running.

[@donmacaskill5022]

First time I ever saw one I was sitting in Albertson's parking lot in Mesa AZ. It parked next to me. I was in a 2004 Seattle Beige Camry. It was February 2006. As you can tell it left a lasting impression on me.

[@jonblondell-rv3hu]

A dear friend is giving me a 2007 Lexus to drive for a while. Don't know what model, but I'm way excited to get it. This is an ancient car for my friend, but I did have a 2000 model and I loved it. He always take excellent care of his rides, so I'm feeling like a kid on Christmas !!

[@fabioemme7412]

I have one from 2002 and I love it

[@starkyslp16]

Best part of the video "hahaha a tea restaurant? How stupid."

[@davestevens4193]

My wife has a 2004 Pebble Beach Edition with about 100k on it. Runs like a swiss watch.

[@alexwambugu8228]

I have a low mile ls430 and love love driving it, it’s the smoothest luxury car of this era

[@mahatma171]

Have always loved this car. A guy who owned my favorite area car wash bought one new. He has since retired, but still has the SC430, in this exact color. Have often looked around to see if I could find one. I think they are just amazing cars.

[@MegaDizz23]

In 02 my senior year of high school this girl at my school got one brand new as her first car. Meanwhile I was rolling in a 92 Sentra. I miss the old Nissan's and this Lexus is great.

[@danielchristopherdc]

Must’ve been nice for her to be rich 😂

[@AMDemon420]

I loved and lusted after these in the early 2000s. Thought they were so cool. Couldn't afford one back then fresh out of high school.

[@clayrs11]

A 2for1 Lexus and tea commercial! My favorite video yet.

[@miketdavies]

Nostalgia is a hell of a drug! I always loved the look of these things.

[@Danman1972]

I've wanted one for a while. They are hard to come by in clean condition. When you find one they want a pretty penny for it. I just wish they made more without the white interior. The black and tan interior.

[@robertrickel9205]

I owned a 2002 and drove it across the USA. It was the perfect touring car. My mom bought it new for her 80th birthday. BTW that color is Egyptian Sand Pearl.

[@marial8235]

I have an 04 XK8 and I prefer the Jag’s styling, but the Lexus interior is so high quality: I’d love to do a road trip in one of these.