Click on image to view the full photo gallery
Lexus SC II 430 V8 (304 Hp)
Overall Rating
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)
II Overview:
Lexus SC (II). With 441 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1750 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.1 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
The Lexus SC II (SC 430) was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. However, it featured standard safety equipment for its era, including multiple airbags, ABS, and traction control, reflecting Lexus's general commitment to occupant protection.
430 V8 (304 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The later 304 Hp version of the 3UZ-FE V8 offers a noticeable bump in power, reducing the 0-100 km/h time to 6.1 seconds. This enhances the SC 430's already smooth and refined performance, making it feel more responsive.
Fuel Economy
While specific fuel data isn't provided, expect similar or slightly higher consumption than the 285 Hp model, likely around 12-13 l/100 km combined, still typical for a luxury V8 of its time.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Exceptional ride comfort and refinement
- • Legendary Lexus reliability and build quality
- • Smooth and powerful V8 engine
- • Retractable hardtop offers coupe security and convertible fun
- • Luxurious interior with premium materials
Cons:
- • Dated infotainment system (by modern standards)
- • Limited rear seat space
- • Modest trunk space with the top down
- • Fuel consumption is high
- • Handling is more geared towards comfort than sportiness
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I: 1994 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Lexus |
| Model: | SC |
| Generation: | II |
| Modification (Engine): | 430 V8 (304 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 304 Hp @ 5600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 70.8 Hp/l [345mm less] |
| Torque: | 441 Nm @ 3400 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 3UZ-FE More details about the engine 3UZ-FE |
| Engine displacement: | 4293 |
| 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: | 5.2 l |
| Coolant: | 9.9 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 91 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 82.5 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.8 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4 kg/Nm, 252 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1750 |
| Max. weight: | 2055 |
| Max load: | 305 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 450 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 135 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 85 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4515 mm [345mm less] |
| Width: | 1825 mm [35mm more] |
| Height: | 1350 mm [20mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2620 mm [70mm less] |
| Front track: | 1570 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1570 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18 |
| Front suspension | Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Air suspension |
Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Lexus SC?