Highlights
- Low mile example
- Gorgeous specification
- Great history file with full main dealer service history
The Appeal
The SC 430 has pulled on the heartstrings of many due to the cars opulence, performance and unrivalled reliability. Later models like this example are rare to find such is their desirability in part due to the more refined silky smooth 6-speed auto gearbox rather than the previous clunky 5-speed.
This Lexus flagship has an excellent specification fitted with all the usual high end items such as Mark Levinson sound system, touch screen sat nat, fully electric and heated memory seats, self levelling adaptive Xenon headlights, lavish leather, wood and chrome interior and so much more. With its 3-part folding aluminium hard-top, sub six second 0 to 60 these 430's were aimed as an alternative to the Jaguar XK8, Mercedes SL and Porsche 911.
The History and Paperwork
The current owner, a Business Psychologist in the luxury car manufacturer sector, reports averaging 38 mpg on a recent SC 430 Owners Club trip. This car is part of a small collection and the owner regrettably needs to make room for the recommissioning of a much older car in the collection. It is fastidiously maintained, recently had a new stainless steel Cybox rear exhaust and is dry stored in a dehumidified, heated garage under a made to measure, breathable luxury car cover.
- Originally registered on the 30th of September 2007
- 6 previous keepers, including the current custodian
- Full main dealership service history with stamps
- Original book set and leather binder with manual and documentation
- A4 binder full of paperwork from previous mechanical work, MOT’s or services undertaken
- Low mileage example
- Current MOT valid until the 17th of Match 2024, as it passed this year with a clean sheet
- V5C is present and the current keepers name ready for transfer of ownership
The Interior
- Gorgeous Ecru cream leather upholstery appears to be in well presented condition with minimal signs of wear, some minor colour transfer and creasing on the driver's seat but no apparent damage
- Electronically adjustable front seats with memory positions
- Passenger and rear seats appear to have very little use
- Bright wooden veneer panelling all appears in excellent condition with no signs of any damage or delamination, contrasting beautifully with the bright interior
- Black dashboard appears free from any cracks or damage
- Steering wheel is well presented, the leather sections have slight signs of wear from the leather shining and the wooden areas are lovely
- Gauges all remain functional and easy to read, with no unwelcoming warning lights upon vehicle startup
- Centre console controls are all excellent, the writing on all of the buttons is clear and readable, and the in-built display functions as it should
- Door cards are in excellent shape with no unwanted damage
- Boot compartment remains excellent with no damage present and original carpets
The Exterior
- Smoky Granite Mica paintwork is presented in lovely condition with very little signs of use, only very gentle marks
- Headlights and taillights are in good shape with no apparent damage or water ingress
- Exterior brightwork is well maintained with no fading or pitting present
- Body panels appear to be original with factory fitting panel gaps throughout
- Original wheels all free from any damage and in the factory two-tone colourway, all shod in good tyres with plenty of rubber left
- No corrosion spotted on any of the arches or sill areas around the vehicle
- Three-piece hard-top is completely functional with good paintwork, no unwelcome noises present during operation
- Excellent throughout - this is a well maintained example which has been well cared for throughout its ownership, care has been exercised and it has paid dividends
The Mechanics
- 4.3-litre V8 engine producing a healthy 288 bhp, these V8’s are renowned for having excellent long-term reliability
- 6-speed automatic transmission is reported to be in good health - this is the desirable later model gearbox, earlier models have a clunkier 5-speed transmission
- Rear-wheel drive configuration
- Complete dealership service history, fully stamped
- Great MOT history with the last three MOT’s being clean passes, the one before that only having a single advisory. Further evidence that the owners have a “no expense spared” attitude towards maintenance and upkeep
- Steering is reported to be precise and lightweight due to the luxurious nature of these SC’s
- Brakes are in good health and are able to bring the opulent coupe to a halt with ease with no screeching or grinding
- Cam-belt changed on the previous Lexus service.
- New Lexus front discs/pads less than 500 miles.
- Ulez compliant.
Summary
SC430’s are seemingly a dying breed - and are much more commonplace on the other side of the pond than the UK. Spotting one in the wild is becoming a rare sight to see, and leaves us wondering why. Gorgeous modelling paired with high end luxury and a reliable engine makes for a fantastic and pleasuring ownership.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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