Used 2005 Lexus SC 430 Consumer Reviews
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Reliable fun car at 8/10 of drive
Dr Gus, 02/04/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Just bought this care last week. Great car. Previous Lexus owner. The best features of this car by far is its reliability and build quality. If you are looking for a pure sports car look to another auto maker such as Porsche. I am also a current Cayenne and Boxster owner. Lexus by far is light years ahead in build quality and value but at 8/10 of the fun for those who really care. If you are looking for a semi sporting luxury convertible hardtop that is a great value and most importantly very reliable and practicle look no further than the SC 430.
Best car I've owned!
joe, 02/19/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Fun car, superb characteristics top down or up, quick but not lightening fast. Attracts alot of attention from everyone, so you cannot hide in this beauty. Very reliable. Best on a warm sunny day without a doubt. It is a treat to drive, even after 3 years of ownership. The best car I have owned, including LS and GS 400 models, Jags...
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Great handling -Smart Styling
Benchdex, 03/15/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very responsive. Trouble Free. Back seat good for luggage storage only. Best looking convertible on the road, especially in silver. Heavy and powerful. Handles well. Hugs the road. Great responsiveness. I like the famous Lexus service at the dealerships. Like no other, and I have tried many other brands and dealerships.
Fun to drive
joe, 04/02/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This sports coupe is so much fun to drive. From the minute I get behind the wheel my heart starts to race. This SC is a real winner, whether on the highway or just driving local. If you're looking for a convertible this is it.
Like my Lexus
OKBBALL!, 04/01/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I traded in 2001 Corvette convertible, 6 speed. The SC 430 Lexus is more comfortable, quieter, easier to drive, has a much better sound system, the fit and finish is much better and the interior is such better quality there is no comparison. These are comparisons to a 2005 Vette I test drove. The power on the SC 430 however does not compare to the Vette. I am very satisfied with the SC 430.
A lexus for a sunny day
david, 05/07/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
If you are looking for a 2 door coupe luxury car then this is a great car. Far exceeds the ride of coupes that cost $30,000 more. The interior is 100% Lexus quality from the soft leather to the well appointed controls.
The best car I have drive so far..
darlene wooten, 07/05/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have driven the BMW 330Ci and this car by far outshines the BMW..The comfort, the sleek style and pure luxory that you obtain with this car is incredible..I am 44 and have a twin sister..We bought matching 430sc's..We love them!! And, they creat quite a statement!!
Luxury Sports Vehicle
Denise Frias, 08/02/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased the crystalized white metallic with ecru interior. I have compliments on my vehicle daily. Driving this car is like having the luxury of a sedan with the ride of a high end performance vehicle. The hard top convertible and style is what sets it apart from other cars in its class. It comes with Navigation and other options are standard with this vehicle. The competitors in the same class list prices that are much higher and only come with a basic package. I strongly recommend this car to anyone in the market for a high end sports car who appreciate more car for their dollar.
We love the SC430
Marshall Craig, 08/02/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great driving, beautiful automobile. This car is so much fun, we will keep it for years. Yes, the backseat is too small. Yes the cup holders need improvement. But who cares! This is one great car!
The best ever
Darren Mclean, 06/27/2006
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It is very comfortable to drive. If I was to sell it I would make sure that it is in the best conditions that it could be in. It is so comfortable that you could sleep in as soon as you sit in it. It drives very smoothly. The interior design is very beautiful to my eyes. The exterior design is wonderful to my eyes. It is fun to drive.
a dream on wheels
Mickey Matik, 09/30/2006
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have previously owned a jaguar sjs, m/benz 280sl, 350sl, 380sl. All great cars! However, the Lexus 430sc truly out performs all other cars I have ever owned or driven in this automotive category. The handling, the soft ride, the accessibility of instruments and the overall design puts this car in a class of its own. You can purchase a convertible with a retractible roof for more money, but you can't buy a better one. Lexus pays attention to detail. This car is quiet, great looking and fun, fun, fun to drive!
Awesome Car
Dr. Bob, 02/08/2007
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The best car I've ever owned, and I've owned 14 over the years including a corvette. Build quality and reliablity is the best of any car maker regardless of price. Beautiful looking, very fun to drive, top down is a breeze, comfortable, incredible sound system. I'm getting 25 mpg on highway. Not one problem in 2 years. Nav system is fun to use on trips. Plenty of go power, less than the vette, but as to build quality and reliability, no comparison. Rides smooth and quiet, yet screams if I step on it. This one's a keeper.
The flaw in an every day city commuter
sandy, 02/20/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Owning the SC 430 is a mixed blessing. Fit, finish and flawless performance surpass the most demanding of expectations... crucial flaw: low profile tires that are unsuited for the rigors (pot holes, steel plates) of New York city streets. In the last year, 6 tires have been replaced, 4 at the dealers considerable expense as well as sensors and suspension parts. I am not an isolated case. The same frustrating experience has been shared by other owners. Larger tires are not an option as there is no room for a spare without sacrificing the trunk. The otherwise fully satisfying vehicle should have a sticker "NOT FOR NYC DRIVING" Would I buy another?...you have to be joking.
You Can't get any better
mogulteach, 02/12/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had many cars in my life this is one of the best if not the one. I have enjoyed it so much it makes me feel like a kid again.
Bankers Hotrod
DarthOboe, 09/22/2004
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Purchased in July of 2001 - much nicer attention to detail and esp. luxury than the very stiff and austere SL I owned. Truly 2 cars in one - with top up quieter than the Caddy STS I owned and a fun top down convertable. True and solid famed Lexus quality at a great price for this type car. I'm keeping mine!
Fun in the Sun
George Pannell, 06/04/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the best vehicle we have ever owned,married 37 years and we have owned quite a few! Living in Las Vegas provides the enjoyment of maximum use of a convertible that turns heads with unbelievable performance and Luxury. We are approaching retirement and this is a keeper along with our RX 330. Couldn't be more satisfied with this beautiful automobile.
Beautiful, but if you have kids, no way!
Alexandra, 07/18/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Beautiful car. Read some reviews before I leased it, from Edmunds that stated there was plenty of room for children. I have a 2 and 3 year old and well, there just isn't any room. Just wanted to clarify that online, if you have kids, and expect them to drive in this car, you're in la la land.
JF's review
jahenry2004, 08/04/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is fun to drive. Smooth, yet powerful. You can't feel the trans shift up or down. The cabin is quiet, and the sounf system is impressive with the speakers placed juast right. The top folds quickly and queitly into the trunk. Road noise is not a problem when talking with the top down. One drawback is that the runflat tires are somewhat noisy. Occasionally you can feel the pull from one side to the other.
Love it, Love it, Love it
Liz in Louisiana, 08/21/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was driving on the interstate one day when a SC430 passed me up. I didn't know what kind of car it was but was immediately drawn to the shape - I sped up to get closer and took a really long look. My love affair with my current vehicle was all over from that point on! Within 3 months, I was a proud owner of a crystal gold with saddle leather SC430 and I have never regretted it. Not a day goes by that I don't get at least one compliment on my car, thumbs up signs from people in their cars next to me at red lights or people speeding up to get next to me on the interstate. I find the backseat perfect for my purse and my umbrella and the trunk holds plenty of groceries. Don't wait...
Lexus SC 430
Lexus lover, 12/05/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Best coupe convertible ever. More roomy than XLR or AMG 55 and better appointment and craftmanship than both of those. The cockpit is relaxed and functional. None of the convertibles tested would allow one to go down the highway with the top down and be able to talk without shouting and to listen to the stereo except the Lexus SC 430. We love ours and I am 6'2" and sit comfortably in the passenger seat. The passenger seat reclines to allow short naps on long trips. Not doable on the XLR or the MB AMG.
Classy, classic and reliable
beccabon, 09/05/2006
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd SC 430 and I absolutely love it! Its 8-cylinders give me confidence on the road, the convertible gives me a sense of freedom and style and the Lexus brand spells quality. I love the new 2006 colors, but will keep my pearl white for a while!! I like driving the original; the imitators are cute, but less classy/classic.
The Beast
Lexus T, 08/10/2022
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car gives me a feeling like no other! Granted, this is my first convertible (and first Lexus). I have a Silver 2005 with Saddle interior, and couldn't be happier! This car is reasonably quick, but not "fast". It is no supercar, but for my needs it's absolutely a blast to drive. The only downfall I have found it that she is a thirsty [non-permissible content removed] and she drinks top shelf gas! But, of course this is a V-8 with 300 HP so that's to be expected. I hope to have this car for as long as I live because it is so much fun for a getaway. And dropping the top just never seems to get old! I wish these were still being made, but I also like to exclusivity of driving this thing since there are not many on the roads. Great job Lexus!!
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BEST DANG CAR I'VE OWNED!
myfirstlexus, 06/26/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This has to be one of the most luxurious vehicles I've ever been in let alone owned. Fast mover, head turner and a perfect fit for a female (all the controls are really at arms reach.) I see ppl complaining about no back seat. I believe it wasn't made for ppl to sit back there, but for lower insurance premiums by technically being a 4 seater. Bentley has a new model out with the same "issue", that I can assure you they will not be addressing. It's done on purpose. Sure has more room than a SLK which has no space behind the seats.
Cute little car
Filmore, 12/15/2023
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great looking little car with a super rocket engine and cushy comfortable seating. Ride and handling are great. But it is 18 years old and lacks the technology of which we’ve become accustom. It’s a one or two person car. The back seat is only there for insurance purposes. The trunk is reserved for the convertible top. There is very little space for luggage or golf clubs and no one could sit in the rear seats. Fuel economy (19mpg) is not a consideration with the 300hp rocket engine, but it wasn’t built to be efficient. It was built to be fun and that it is!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
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- Comfort
- Reliability
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Not a great car.
Tom Nault, 03/06/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've owned one for a year and I've nothing but annoying problems. Most are loud rattles and squeaks that the dealer can't seem to fix even though they hear them. The passenger seat shudders with every bump if unloaded. The car has been a complete nightmare and I don't recommend it to anyone unless you don't mind constant loud squeaks and other unwelcome noises. The car had more minor problems than most I've owned. As an example, the left headlight washer didn't retract, grease kept smearing along the passenger side window, and the carpet had to be replaces just because of missing ring for the rug anchor. I'm very disappointed in Lexus for their failure to find a solution.
Needs a bigger back seat
garbvr, 05/16/2005
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Mostly positive
The Tires And Rims Are The Worst!
MERIK R. AARON, 05/30/2007
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
The car is definitely fun to drive. When the top is down, it turns heads. The hard top goes up and down like a charm. The reliability of the transmission and engine is superb. But, the tires are the absolute worst! The rims are soft metal and dent, scratch, and disfigure at every curb. One pothole and your stomach ties into knots because you know that the sensor will sound and you will need to spend between $250-$425 for one, yes ONE tire. Everyone I meet loves the car and hates the tires. Sure, you can put regular tires on the car, but where do you put the spare?? My friend just turned his in because of the tires. One curb, one pothole and I reach into my wallet.
Can you spell SUPERB ?
Mark B., 08/13/2021
2005 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible (4.3L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A joy to drive especially on a nice day with the top down and music cranked up ! Just enough room in the back seat area for the bottles of wine at the local wineries here in SW Michigan.