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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UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.