Silky smooth performance wrapped up in a luxury coupe. The Lexus SC430 is the epitome of quality and style and this one has very small miles and an enviable history having been owned by one family for most of its life. Used sparingly and regularly maintained regardless of mileage this car represents the very best in luxury open-top motoring. The Lexus brand has grown into a driving force in the world of executive and luxury vehicles and the SC430 shows just how they’re getting it so right.tO2KxOPHsRVVWeTyQ4Z5DrirggpAGfns7njnmoVh.jpg511.92 KB
The History and Paperwork
Regularly serviced
Every single MOT is available in the document file
Host of invoices
Invoice for new tyres just fitted
Just had an oil service and early Mot
Valid V5c
Current Mot certificate
The car was purchased by the current owner’s Uncle 16 years ago and was used sparingly as a weekend car. The owner was Chairman of a Haulage firm and a lot of the maintenance was done by them as well as other specialised establishments. Since becoming unwell he has passed the car on to his Nephew who uses it even less.
The decision has been made to sell it, but before a new owner takes possession it was deemed sensible to have a health check. It was found that it was still fitted with the original 2003 tyres which needed replacing. While new tyres were fitted it was decided to do a routine oil service and a fresh Mot test. The only downside is that the old tyres were so difficult to remove that two of the rims have been slightly damaged during the process.
When you think of luxury interiors you may not instantly consider Japanese manufacturers. But Lexus has got the SC430 just right. There’s a real Germanic feel to the cockpit of the Lexus with its sophisticated feel and quality finish. The contrasting leather upholstery is of great quality and shows no apparent wear.
All the switches and controls are reassuringly positive and within easy reach. The interior as a whole shows very little evidence of use other than a little bit of damage to the driver’s door top. Something that a reputable company could rectify with ease.
Excellent overall appearance for a 20-year-old car
All metal folding roof
The SC430 is without a doubt a good-looking car and few convertibles can look this good with the roof up or down. Speaking of the roof, it folds away neatly and quietly into the boot at the push of a button and is intriguing to watch. The rich blue metallic coachwork has a good depth of shine and it admits to only a few minor scratches and chips. The wheels which are factory fitment are clean and only marred by the unfortunate difficulty in removing the old tyres. All in all the car shows very little in the way of use and certainly doesn’t look 20 years old.
The heart of the SC has to be the silky smooth 4.3 V8 that has an output of just over 280 bhp. This one has just had an oil service and is ready to be enjoyed. The owner had left it running for me and I had to touch the car to check it was running, it was that quiet and there wasn’t a hint of any fumes emitting from the chrome tailpipes.
The 6-speed auto box changes seamlessly without any hesitation or unwanted clunks. The car has enjoyed regular servicing by the previous owner's company, often before the mileage would require it. It has covered only 20000 miles and has many, many more miles and years left in it. Everything works as it should and as you’d expect from a premium product.
It is impossible not to sing this car’s praises. It feels fresh and new as well as quiet and powerful. It oozes luxury and understated performance and there is very little that gives evidence to it being 20 years old. The design is still up to date and will still turn heads. So, if you are in the market for a smart convertible with a bit of oomph, and before start looking at a Merc SLK just consider this Lexus SC430, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
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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