For Sale: 2002 Lexus SC430 in Morgantown, Pennsylvania

2002 Lexus SC430 Convertible

"We are nearing the end of the V8 powered coupe, muscle car or not. As the late model German values begin to rise, the Japanese will be next for collectors, and Lexus is the only player in that game. The SC430 may not be the best from the brand, but it checks the boxes, and never fails to deliver on everything that is promised. Twenty years later, I think the SC430 redeems itself. In a sea of crossovers, the big coupe draws attention and is a slow, relaxing, deep breath of fresh air." DrivingLine.com, April 2021

For consignment, a 2002 Lexus SC430 convertible with a title verified 66,603 actual miles. More luxury car than sports car, the SC430 outwardly gives vibes for both but is tuned for pleasant, back country and beachfront drives more so than the hairpin turns of a slalom. Regardless, it does everything pretty well!

Exterior
Conceived by Toyota's European design center, the SC 430's sweeping fender flares, a sculpted hood, and the fully flush front fascia was a polarizing design when new, but now recognized as unique and standing the test of time. The rear section presents a symmetrical profile with very similar sloping panels and flush tail lights that flank a modest spoiler, all in Millennium Silver Metallic that's consistent with Lexus' quality, deep coverage. The retractable hardtop forms a gentle dome over the cabin and a steeply raked A-pillar becomes pronounced when the top is down. Chrome exhaust tips on either side of the bumper cover add sport to the touring car and its unique 18-inch wheels are wrapped in ZR rated 40 series tires that also radiate sportiness. Imperfections include scrapes on the chin, rocker panel, and some curb rash on the wheels.

Interior
Opening the door reveals a rich cabin and door panels made up of Charcoal Black leather and burlwood accents, all mixing in an interior that continues its right angle adverse profile. High back buckets are in good condition with some light compression the driver's seat and the 2+2 rear in back is split by the console, likely serving as package storage, and currently showing some indentations of past use. The burl faced center console houses the shifter, also topped by glossy wood. Our center stack is fronted with quality brushed nickel trim plating hosting the AM/FM/Cassette/6 Disc CD Changer with a digital display while an integrated screen display in a band of burlwood that forms the top section of the dash. In front of the driver a trio of deep inset overlapping round gauges fronted by a burl and rubber rimmed steering wheel from which you can also control the radio. Clean black carpeting covers the floors and a note to the back seat a glass window will pop up between the seats for smoother airflow.

Drivetrain
4.3 Liters of DOHC V8 are under the hood and they are awaiting to unleash 300hp at the touch of the accelerator. On the back is a Toyota Aisin-Warner A650E 5-speed automatic. The rear axle is a wheel spinning 3.266 ratio. All buttoned up and clean as a whistle under this hood with a large plastic shroud covering the innerworkings.

Undercarriage
Some typical surface rust is noted on the exhaust, rear axle, and some wheel components, and some residual oil on the pan, but overall the underside is clean. Power disc brakes are at all four wheels and independent suspension is employed front and rear with Machperson struts in the fore and coil springs in the aft. Dual exhaust runs through an original equipment muffler that emits two tailpipes ending with chrome tips.

Drive-Ability
Comfortable, compact, and classy is what you get from the cabin of an SC430 and this one is no different. The V8 delivers very good power, the car tracks straight and handles well. Our tires are nearly 15 years old so we're testing at modest speeds and the car still delivers. A check engine light is on for code P0155, an 02 sensor but all functions performed fine on our test, including the power top. While Classic Auto Mall represents that these functions were working at the time of our test drive, we cannot guarantee these functions will be working at the time of your purchase.

Lexus is at the pinnacle of automotive engineering and that prestigious position didn't just start this year. It was earned over decades of producing reliable, well built machines including some stand out designs such as the SC430. This car still demands respect, looks fresh, and has enough technology to make you feel like you're in the modern age without being overburdened by bells and whistles. In our eyes, this is the Goldilocks of the Lexus brand, a powerful little car with all the luxury of a flagship LS. It's just right!

JTHFN48Y120015377

J-Japan
T-Toyota
H-Lexus
F-2 Door Convertible
N-4.3L V8 300hp
4-Code Configuration
8-Manual Belts, Front & Side Airbags
Y-SC430
1-Check Digit
2-2002
O-Higashi, Fuji Assy Plant
015377-Sequential Unit Number

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.

With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!