Highlights
- Low mileage for its age: 73,485 miles
- Well-documented service history
- Lesser-seen V8-engined ‘coupé-convertible’ with working retractable hard top
- MOT until February 2026
The Appeal
Convertibles with retractable hard tops are very costly to engineer, to the extent that few car makers will entertain the technology - even today. And that’s a shame, as folding hard tops are by far the better option when compared with the fragile, poorly insulated cabriolet roofs fitted to the majority of convertibles past and present. But Lexus did dare to go there with the ingenious Z40 generation SC. During the design process, Lexus sent its engineers to the Côte d’Azur to study the yachts and local architecture, and it’s this Mediterranean flavour that punctuates the design of this Japanese ‘coupé-convertible’. Add a 4.3-litre V8 to the mix, and you’ve got one mightily impressive package.
Today, they’re a rare sight in the UK, so be sure not to miss out on this low-mileage 2004 example. Original and well-presented, this SC480 looks to be in very good condition for its age. It also comes with a new MOT & large history file, including a well-stamped original service book.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present
- Two sets of keys
- 73,485 miles
- UK market RHD example
- New MOT to 24th of February 2026
- Full vehicle check carried out by the vendor's on site mechanic; paper document included
- Original warranty and care booklet
- Service book stamped up to November 2021
- Maintained by a mixture of Lexus main dealers and independent specialists
- Datacard showing factory specifications provided by the vendor (see gallery below)
The Condition
- ‘Platinum’ paintwork
- ‘Helmsdale’ upholstery
- Smart OEM alloy wheels with only the slightest of marks apparent
- A comprehensive set of underside photographs is included in the gallery below
- Working convertible hard top
- New MOT until February 2026
- 2 New tyres fitted since photo's taken
With straight and solid-looking bodywork and good panel alignment/door fit all-round, this Lexus presents very well indeed. We understand the retractable hard top to be in good working condition, allowing this car to be enjoyed as a convertible once the summer comes around.
The impeccable original interior is a particular highlight as there’s exceedingly little wear apparent to upholstery, woodwork and controls. Even the carpet overmats look to be in excellent shape. The cabin is well-appointed for a car of this era and we understand the electrics to be in good working order, including the in-built factory audio.
The Mechanics
- 4.3 VVT-i V8 petrol
- Five-speed automatic
- Impeccably presented engine compartment
The SC doesn’t just look the part; it’s seriously quick, too. Lexus targeted the US market from the start, which explains the inclusion of the V8 engine mated to an automatic gearbox. Having undergone regular servicing for much of its life, this example is in good mechanical health and driving well.
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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