With the success of the fabulous LS luxury saloon behind it, Lexus entered the 21st century on the crest of a wave, Toyota’s luxury arm offering Mercedes-Benz style luxury with inherent Japanese reliability.
It had evolved from a one-model range to a more diverse selection of cars, with the GS rivalling the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and the IS200 going for the jugular of the C-Class (Lexus made no secret of the fact that Mercedes was its benchmark…). The SC430 was its assault on the Mercedes-Benz SL, but with a 2+2 layout offering a pair of nominal rear seats. The electric folding hardtop (see also: Mercedes-Benz SLK) was its party piece and folded away in seconds at the touch of a button.
This one was registered in Manchester in 2002 and has spent the majority of its life on Merseyside, with two recorded owners, though the vendor believes this to be down to lost documentation as the lady owner’s name and address are the same throughout the car’s comprehensive history. Ostensibly, it’s most likely a one-owner car, and has a genuine sub-50k mileage.
It’s presented in one of the best colours for the model and is in superb order inside and out.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
Two registered keepers, both with the same name and address (one former keeper)
MOT October 2023 with no advisory in its MOT life par one in 2018 (for brake callipers)
Main dealer service history for its entire life
Recent service invoice
Original handbook
Three keys
Service wallet
Tracker system
All original booklets and papers
Sat nav disc
Cherished registration included
The full Lexus main dealer history that complements this machine is as follows, 9,048 on 27.01.05 at Lexus Manchester, 11,325 on 31.01.06 at Lexus Manchester, 14,091 on 11.01.07 at Lexus Manchester, 21,878 on 16.01.08 at Lexus Manchester, 25,703 on 05.02.10 at Lexus Manchester, 30,006 on 06.09.11 at Independent Specialist, 39,002 on 06.04.16 at Lexus Liverpool, 44,505 on 11.04.18 at Lexus Liverpool, and finally 48,139 on 28.09.20 at yes you guessed it - the last being Lexus Liverpool. The main dealer history is exceptionally impressive for such a machine as these often get neglected, not this one It looks like it has been pampered since birth.
THE INTERIOR
Excellent heated beige leather
Multi-adjustable electric seats
High specification
Factory sat nav
2+2 layout
Electrically retractable stereo cover
Cruise control
Light maple veneers
Mark Levinson surround sound stereo system\
Wood-rimmed steering wheel
Dealer mats
THE EXTERIOR
Excellent paintwork
Costa Azul Blue Micatallic
Electric roof operates faultlessly
Brushed alloy wheels in good order
No notable damage or visible corrosion
Appears sound underneath – no corrosion advisories on past MOTs
THE MECHANICS
4.3-litre V8
Near-silent idle – a Lexus signature
Five-speed automatic
Full Lexus main dealer service history
Drives well with no known faults
Strong performance
SUMMARY
This is a superb example of a rare and unusual luxury GT, with the added advantage of that power folding hardtop that truly makes it stand out and gives convertible appeal in the warmer months with no winter compromise.
It’s in impeccable condition and drives flawlessly, with a main dealer history and one family ownership from new. There aren’t many SC430s left as good as this example.
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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