Lexus SC I 400 (294 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.9 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Lexus SC:

The Lexus SC is a two-door four passenger, front-engine, rear-drive grand touring coupe manufactured by Toyota and marketed by its luxury division, Lexus, for model years 1991–2010 across two generations. The first-generation SC debuted as the V8-powered SC 400 in 1991, and the I6-powered SC 300 was added in 1992, both manufactured until 2000. The second-generation model, the SC 430, went into production in 2001, as a retractable hardtop convertible coupe with a V8 engine. The first-generation SC was largely styled in California at Calty, and the second-generation SC was mainly conceived at design studios in Europe....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I Overview:

Lexus SC (I). With 420 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1610 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.9 s). The top speed reaches 241 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Lexus SC I was produced before Euro NCAP testing became widespread for all vehicle segments. While equipped with standard safety features for its era like ABS, it has not been officially rated by Euro NCAP.

400 (294 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

This later V8 variant offers a substantial boost in power, providing genuinely strong acceleration and a more engaging drive.

Fuel Economy

While more powerful, fuel economy remains a consideration, likely similar to or slightly higher than the 245 Hp V8.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast driving, high-speed touring, and those seeking the ultimate performance from the SC I generation.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional long-term reliability and durability of both I6 and V8 engines.
  • • Luxurious and comfortable interior with a smooth, quiet ride.
  • • Timeless and elegant coupe styling.
  • • Strong aftermarket support for the 2JZ-GE engine.

Cons:

  • • Fuel economy is relatively poor by modern standards.
  • • Rear seats are very cramped, typical for a 2+2 coupe.
  • • Handling is more geared towards comfort than sporty dynamics.
  • • Some interior plastics may show age, and technology is dated.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 1991 - 2001).

General:
Brand:Lexus
Model:SC
Generation:I
Modification (Engine):400 (294 Hp)
Start of production:1994
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:294 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:74.1 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:420 Nm @ 4000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:1UZ-FE More details about the engine 1UZ-FE
Engine displacement:3969
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4.7 l
Coolant:11.6 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:87.5 mm
Piston Stroke:82.5 mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.4 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:6.9 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:6.9 sec
Maximum speed:241 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:5.5 kg/Hp, 182.6 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.8 kg/Nm, 260.9 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1610
Max. weight:1875
Max load:265
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:265 l
Fuel tank capacity:78 l
Size:
Length:4850 mm [Same length.]
Width:1790 mm [Same width.]
Height:1340 mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2690 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1520 mm
Rear (Back) track:1520 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size225/55 R16
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Lexus SC?