Here's Why The Lexus SC430 Is NOT "The Worst Car In The World"
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- Опубликовано: 2 июн 2024
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Thanks to a Top Gear special a few years ago, the SC430 is known by the internet as the "worst car in the history of the world". But this couldn't be further from the truth, and here's why...
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Seriously though it's a v8 rwd convertible that's not gonna break down, can put on 300k miles easily, and they've all been owned by geezers who babied them and drove them lightly. What's not to love?
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👍
Christopher Ashby YES the one I’m about to test drive was a one owner who drive it on average about 6,000 miles a year!!!!
That's exactly why I bought my 2003 for $16k years ago. I love the looks, luxury, and reliability. Low miles because the rich person that bought it, garaged it, cared for it, and owned 3 other cars. Thanks to him for taking care of my car and the depreciation.
It's great but if it just was about 5 inches longer it would be awesome. The backseats in this car is completely useless. Not even kids can fit there.
It curves in too much at the end, making the rear graphics look smushed together
The Lexus SC430 can’t be the worst car in the world, fiat chrysler exists and telsa build quality
Don't forget Yugo
I have a Chrysler 300 S, can confirm it's a turd.
lol... That's funny...
@@marcco954 they didn't know better so it doesn't count
PT Cruiser?
It's funny how ppl hate things they never even probably rode in and because someone else says it, they hate it . I've rode in a couple and they were nice. Especially at night.
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👍
That’s how I feel about you’re mum
I love them
I don't hate because hate it's a big word. But I don't like this car,the way it looks. I always enjoyed watching top gear and loved the show when the JC trio was doing it but after the X6 review of JC I started to look at it as a entertainment show and not a car show. I understand the point he was trying to make about SUV's but I don't really think that the X6 is so bad off road like he said and plus that car wasn't built for off-road like this Lexus for anything else than GT
Andrei Arama Clarkson said the best sports car in the world was the Alpine A610 & it sold about 6, meanwhile we all know what he said about the Vectra & it sold in the millions. That said, I do think that the Lexus IS a fat old hector with a wasted V8 tuned to Florida dentist performance.
I think the car has aged incredibly well. Outside and in. I really like it.
Yo anyone else find out this car exists due to petronas tom lexus
I found its design radical for the time. Very Japanese, which I like.
I dont think the interior aged well, it looks really old, for example the Audi A8 D3 interior from 2008 looks okay but this, no.
such as the cassette deck?
I agree
What Top Gear completely ignored is the ownership experience. My wife has had her 2004 since new, 108,000 miles, and I doubt she has spent more than $1,000 on all maintenance, other than tires (which are $$$). Utterly reliable, super quiet, and gets a solid 23+ mpg on the highway running on regular.
O2 sensors will wear out on any car. It's not a sports car. And when you go to Lexus for service, they have expresso and bagels.
Garth Goldberg your wife is overdue for a timing belt/water pump change...+2k at a dealer. Dont forget the coolant change and the iridium spark plugs .7mm electrode are good for 70k .9mm for 90k. Also the transmission fluid/ filter and rear diff. Your wife's car need over 3k in service. Not to mention the front control arm #2 bushing has been torn since 40k which is why all of them shimmy around 60mph and your alignment will never stop the front tires from wearing the inside belts while the rest of the tread has 70% left and new shocks all 4 corners brings it up to +5k. Just saying
costaet your talking to a guy who is currently driving a 240k 2003 sc430. I know these cars inside and out. What you saying is equivalent to neglecting your 14-15yr old kid but telling yourself they are still alive...no problems. This is what happens with all these cars; first the #2 front control arm bushings tear wearing $400/tire runflats in the inside shoulder by 40k. Then you have a $2k 90k service. If you chose not to replace the shocks all around just know the ride quality deteriorates and significantly increases blowouts and bent wheels(this the 2005+ had revised damper rates). Next up is the o2 sensors $180 a shot plus install. Around 130k the evap starts throwing codes both on my 2003 and previous 2005...rip! Next up around 150k is the solenoids for the cabin air mixer start convulsing as you can hear it in the dash and if you ever looked at sewellexus.com u will see it's the most common part ordered online. Look at those prices for starters. I will say I never had a problem with the nav screen although at this age the door sticks here and there. Dont forget about the 1off ohms speakers from mark levinson...mid woofer are about $280 but I've repaired them myself both the speaker cushions and the hair thin solder that separates. It is a great car in terms of build quality interior engine trans as well. But these are not like the original 4litre 1uz-fe motors as they are interference engines meaning that when your brittle 14yr old original timing belt or tensioner eat $shit u kill the motor by valve piston smashing. As for the vvti I replaced one sensor which is cheap but labor makes it a $500 job. The evap is 1500for parts and labor but most of the time it's one of the $80 purge seloniods. Unless u fix that other emissions codes you have no traction control in a reardrive car and I've had it go on in the middle of a turn in the winter. Again rip 2005 sc430. Any toyota vehicle with track control is lost when the emission codes come on and this was just a recall on 100,000 tundras and rav4s I believe this year. Other than that never had a problem with the hardtop malfunctioning. Any questions?
@ 237k got to replace upper control arm/a-arms balljoint on passenger side is bad...$1000 for oem replacements. Add that to the list
Holy crap... there are Lexus cars that actually run on regular?! I was already thinking a Lexus that DOESN'T run on premium has never existed...
You payed $75,000 for a car that was realistically worth $40,000. Of course they give you espresso and bagels
From business meeting to brothel. That was a good one
@john jay I prefer in parallel
@john jay two fine gentlemen understanding each other.
I lived in Japan and saw a few of these VIP’d out. In a split second, I had been converted from a Top Gear fanboy to a big fan of this car. Then I drove a Junction Produce kitted one, and fell in love. These cars are awesome.
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS! 👍
I have a VIP MK2 gs300. Lexus for life!
In Japan it’s called the Toyota Soarer
7k for a car that is this good and luxurious? a great deal really.
FrankValchiria do have more photos and info. Mileage etc.
It's a really great car, my sister's sc430 has 289,000 miles with the original engine and transmission. The only repairs that weren't maintenance (fluid changes, brakes, tires, etc.) were a flywheel ($300) and a new starter.
I bought mine after watching this video
They are 30k now
I've always thought the SC430 was a good looking car that was oddly proportioned, but that gave it some character. To be honest, I think the design has aged quite well.
I worked for Lexus as a vehicle technician around the same time this version of the SC came about... This and the older "supra" SC are awesome cars. They are way over built (like all of the Lexus models)... NOT a performance car... They were designed to be high luxury with bullet proof reliability, and decent performance. Hell Lexus CAT scans each and every single engine they assemble before installing them in to the vehicles. This way they can check for any imperfections and don't risk installing a faulty engine. NONE of the Lexus cars were designed to be a high performance vehicle, before the LFA came about. Then things changed... the designers and engineers realized they could build performance vehicles alone side the cushy luxury ones, and people would still buy them. Part of the reason the LC 500 is the car that it is, the realization you could have decent performance and still have high Luxury... was something that became a reality, after the LFA. After working at Lexus, I am to this day a huge fan of the brand, and everything they stand for. I have seen how well they take care of their customers and employees... it was a huge eye opener, seeing a company that actually does right by the people that are part of their organization and success.
If they are so overbuilt, why do they flex so incredibly much and rattle compared to the same year SL? Had one for a week back in '04 when we were shopping for a car for the wife, and it was pretty terrible compared to the SL. Did not ride well, did not steer well, not that quiet, cowl shake one could not live with. Not a good car.
Explain the sc430 gt500 then
@@patrickmoody9718 ... Sorry not sure what you what you mean by explain? I don't really know anything about the Lexus GT500 (race car based on the LS500), outside of it being loosely based on the LS500, but built to meet certain standards to compete in certain races. But if you ask a complete question, I would be more than happy to help.
@@JJ_ExMachina There is literally a racecar built on the sc430 platform called the sc430 gt500 back in the mid 2000s. They used them in Super GT.
@@patrickmoody9718 Ok cool, good to know. Sorry I don't know anything about Lexus race cars. I only worked on their "normal" street cars. But cool you are into them.
"Is bad because famous person said so, I'm not allowed to have my own opinion."
A Famous person's opinion is simply their opinion, you have to digest that yourself and make up your own mind, no one is pointing a gun to your head.
It is not bad because a person on the internet said so.
I own one and I love it. I have 480,000 Km on it and it still runs great. Very reliable.
thats nice
Have you changed the timing belt in all those kilometers? Had any major problems?
Clicked on this without checking the uploader assuming it to be a Doug DeMuro vid; was surprised to see our boy sat at the wheel. Also 'SC' stands for _'Sports_ coupe'.
A Totally Ordinary Aubergine You'll know it's a Doug Demuro vid coz his face is literally in every thumbnail.
SC is misnamed. Should have been called GT or LC.
@@felixvanstaden True... Should've just named it Trash.
Jk
Literally a rebadged Toyota Soarer
top gear is an entertainment show, not a serious car review
no, it's THE show
Unless you're an edgy 12-year-old that unironically uses Car Throttle
Instead of a car show with comedy, top gear was always a comedy (that wasn't that funny) with cars.....
No. It was a bunch of racist attention whores pretending to review cars.
true
I love the SC430. I'd have one, I think its a great car and really good looking too.
It's crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👍
Gorgeous car!
I would have bought one if it wasn't for the IS 350C.
@@thecianinator So you ended up with one of those then?
@@ericgeorge5483 An IS 350C? Yeah it's fun
It really is a nice car! More reliable than BMW or Mercedes 🤷♂️
The E 500 is pretty reliable, and only has the air suspension to exchange for some quality KW shocks, but I agree that Lexus as a whole is wonderful.
Older mercs are really reliable expensive to fix though when they break down
it doesn't look anywhere near as good or drive as well. plus mercedes are much nicer inside
I absolutely love the SC430. My Grandfather has a 2006 SC430 with tan leather and pearl white paint. My mother has an 06 SC430 with tan leather and cherry red paint. They are magnificent cars. My grandfather also has a black 1993 SC400 with 285,000 miles on it, and that’s his daily driver. I drive a 2006 Lexus ES330, fully loaded with every single available option, my grandmother has an ES350, needless to say my family is very loyal to Lexus, and Lexus has never let us down. Also every single Lexus dealer has impeccable customer service, Lexus of Woodland Hills, DCH Lexus of Santa Barbara, Lexus of Escondido, DCH Lexus of Oxnard, Lexus of Thousand Oaks.
So... You drive a Camry
Don’t let your bias consume what you say
Backroad Bomber. In terms of "badge engineered" sedans the ES is an example of how it should be done.
The es is the worst technecly an uglyer camry
DrewLSsix I can appreciate that they at least make the cars look different, but on the inside it's still an ugly beige refrigerator with zero passion.
I'll admit it, I'm convinced! Never disliked the looks, I now don't dislike the car. Top job, lads 👍
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👌
Drive one and you might change your mind.
I like this mans attitude, he gives the unloved cars a chance and shows actually how good they can be. Great work
i had one for about 6 months and absolutely loved it, traded in for a 2010 Taurus SHO for the awd
It honestly seems to me more like a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz CLK430 cabriolet rather than a competitor to the SL500.
heinkmeister what about CLK 55 amg cabriolet? Has better space and more practical than SL500
Exact, the CLK does all the things this does but a bit better, even a 6 series
Abood Qureshi the CLK55 AMG is even higher performance compared to the SC430. Plus the SC430 has a 4.3L V8, just like the CLK430.
heinkmeister carthrottle
So many people complain about how they'd much prefer an SL500 over this. Both cars are similar but serve different purposes. The SL500 was the type of car you could take out and throw about on the road and have fun with it because of the sportier ride. The SC430 was the type of car you would take for a cruise down the highway and enjoy the relaxing ride quality without compromising too much on performance either.
That is bs. The sc430 is a great car. These cars last a long time. I wish I had one.
5:54 the Lexus SC actually DO have racing pedigree. It raced in Super GT (GT500 class) and won 2 championship in 2006 and 2009. But yeah this car is actually never meant to be a Sportscar or a car that will snap you neck off when you accelerate it.
It's not the cars... it's the drivers. There's a guy that is/was at the building I work in that drove like he owned the world when in this car. I have yet to see one being driven "nicely". He had the "gold" one too.
jh77sly explains why all Merc and BMW owners drive like twats
I like the crown Vic 😉
Oddly enough, I've seen several BMWs driven properly lately. Audis on the other hand...
jh77sly FINALLY someone else also notice that. Thank you Sir.
Rodney Jones You swole, Bro?
The TX from Terminator 3 thought it was a viable, and worthy car, as it was the first car she stole to begin her hunt for John Connor!
That says it all.good enough for a terminator,good enough for me!
True! 😂👍
I remember that part.
"I like this car"
Amazing video! Perfectly videographed and very scenic location, all with amazing content! Thanks!
I am a big fan of Lexus for one reason: After owning many different car brands Lexus is eventually the only reliable, comfortable, honest, well designed and engineered car I ever bought. Mercedes was killed decades ago.
Because Lexus was a Toyota sub-brands, ive using Toyota Camry for 7 years now, im agreed they do really good in reliability
The reason why it's unpopular is because it has SC on the badge. When we hear SC. We think Soarar. 1JZ GTE, and 2JZ GE. They wanted a successor to the SC3/400
What does it have to do with all of that...?
@@Kev27RS As an owner of both an SC300 and SC400 he is absolutely correct. Had it been named something other than SC it would have been better received. It doesn't pay any homage to its predecessor. Think of it as if the well loved MK4 Supra was replaced by a Solara, but they called it a MK5 Supra simply because it has 2 doors.
@@bigdogroc 🙂👍
bigdogroc exactly thank you
I have had both 300 and 400, and when I first heard about the SC430, I was soo excited to see the newest JDM sport monster, instead I got a luxury convertible version of my car that had updated equipment and a matching interior.
Just liked cause you had the balls to say Clarkson was wrong
exactly. Gotta respect this guy for doing that everyone else just believe whats clarkson says
Thibault Fidaire Clarkson could go....you know the rest.
Agreed, Jeremy Clarkson is not god.
Englashi Hi, white fat nerd, have you finished your homework today?
Let's start.
Im not fat I weigh 62kg at 180cm.
Im, not a nerd, I don't play much games and I go outside, unlike you.
I don't have any homework since i am on the summer break, you sweatshop working yellow fuck.
Looks really nice and doesn’t look out of date even in 2020!!
Thanks for a great review!
I've owned my '02 SC430 for about 18 months, and it's been totally dependable, and delivers a smooth, quiet ride! Love the hardtop convertible roof! I considered a Mercedes, but I figured that maintenance costs on a Mercedes would be alot more then on a Lexus. So far, I've replaced the tires, changed the oil and had one bulb go out. That's been it! Mine is the same silver as in this video, but with black interior.
If you're looking to buy one, make sure the radio works! They are probably hard to repair, and they are really wonderful!
Always loved these things. Its very much a cruiser for the road, like a yacht. Tour around, listening to smooth music with the top down.
Quality production. Nice work.
All things considered, this is probably the best personal, luxury, convertible cruiser, ever! Jeremy and co. were so wrong they should be embarrassed.
I have owned over 25 cars during the last 40 years including most BMW and Mercedes models, Lotus Turbo Esprit, Porsche 944 and 911 and Ceyanne GTS, TVR...I can honestly say for build quality and reliability the Lexus SC430 is superior to all the other cars I've driven. It's not the fastest but it's performance is impressive. Owning an SC430 even today is worth the investment.
Own one...love it. puts a smile on my face every time i drive her..thanks to JC for making is so affordable..
I dont see anything bad with this lexus. I like this car (now you can hate me)
Pablo Martinez Vegas not even its looks?
Love you
You are going against Big Daddy Clarkson and the Crazy Crew!? And you call yourself a car fan. *sigh*
how about the rear seats and their uselessness?
No one hates you dude! ✌
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS! 👌
Mine is a 2005 with 57,000 miles. Did a quick blast up and down a San Diego county highway from see level to Alpine breathtaking screaming V8. Tight ,solid and luxurious cruiser. Love blasting up and down the freeways.
I love that feeling! I also have a 2005 with exhaust, Coilovers, rays wheels and quantum auto tune
Great job with the review, love the car. Well done guys keep up the great work - its a quality content!
The only reason Jeremy Clarkson picked the SC430 is because he was paid by Merc not to mention the SLK250
Chiggy Chiggy hahaha truth!!
Chiggy Chiggy
But he also hated the SLK and loved the Cayman more.
he actually had slk....
😂
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
Clarkson is quite a big fan of merc i think. Amg in particular and rightly so
I really like these. Massively under appreciated
I bought a 2006 SC430 two weeks ago and have been looking for this year in this model for years. It’s white with saddle interior, one previous owner and immaculate. Low miles too! It’s everything I ever wanted and imagined! It’s all I’ll drive this spring/summer and give my RX350 a break until it gets cold again! ❤️
Congratulations on 2.000.000 subscribers!!! You deserve it!
I feel like owning this car you’re going to spend 95% of your time defending it 😂
TheCrazymook perfect car to modify and turn into sleeper
Any lexus has to be defended while talking to other fanboys. That certainly ends when maintenance time comes up. So far all my Lexus's have done their job without missing a beat.
vidurc always defending my sc as to why its a fake supra. I bought it for the luxury boost comes later
oj tyler agreed. I have three of them now. I had a few people talk shit. Power this power that. Irony is my drift SC has 275000 miles with no issues despite being my road / drift car. My isf has been great and our GX does daily duty and handles offroading with no issues. Just love the build quality
TheCrazymook no need to defend it. The luxurious interior, bulletproof V8, drop top and fine ass girl in the passenger seat all speak for itself lol
The SC was and still is a beautiful car. Compared to cars of its time when it first debuted, the SC was a spaceship. There was so much attention to detail in the interior. Just like the LC500 today, the SC was a car that could have easily cost twice as much if it had a German badge on it. Top Gear did a number on this car by calling it the worst car in the world because frankly, it was and still is better than its Jaguar and Mercedes counterparts that are quite literally falling apart.
I work for a import car shop full of BMW's mercedes benz audis and Porsches 💩
Rarely see a car like this coming for service
This was filmed at the eye airfield!! Where I learnt to drive when I was little! Excellent review Alex 👍
I ALWAYS said this car was great ! Glad to see someone had the balls to call Clarkson out on this.
I never listened to the idiots that called it a bad car it was NEVER a bad car. Its a great luxury cursing coupe with a very nice interior even by today standards. Smooth V8. Great interior. Great car.
Yes!
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👌
It's cruising not cursing
FFS Top Gear was a comedy show, and it was a fucking joke. You're the idiot if you took it seriously for even just one moment.
@@Kev27RS Clarkson is funny. You can't take a joke. End of story...
@@louisk6485 What joke??
Literally yesterday I was reading about the SC and now you upload a video of it. As a Lexus fan, first - thank you, second - I love that make. Most reliable cars, luxurious and relaxing.
I love mine, they are great cars
own this car and an rcf. I always loved the sc but after I got the F, my appreciation for this car grew substantially. I don't know another car like this, Amazing daily relaxing car. truly a great car. And the engine, omg.. There is no engine this smooth even today,
💯💯💯
The problem with the SC430 is that its not an SC400/300 😉
#soarersociety
Freddie Blancas Thing is, before 2005 when Lexus was introduced to Japan, the SC430 was sold in Japan as a Toyota Soarer, so a double knock.
#2jzlife
You mean the BENEFIT... I tried taking the top down on a SC400... didn't work.
@@TurboMountTV was going to comment on that dumb shitz apple and oranges comparison but you nailed it
#7mgang
It looks nice and interior is luxurious, can't call it "the worst"
exactly.
Marko M well until you see the price.
Brand new it was terrible
It was competing agonist the SL Coupe in terms of price
But now in the second hand market where you can get one much cheaper than a base Honda Accord, it’s pretty much worth it
Harvard Ford dude. This was never a terrible Car. Ever. New or used it's a great car and what this video is getting across to you. This car was more well rounded more luxurious more comfy then the Germans
Harvard Ford Still better than Cadillac ELR
Toyota4Life dude I never said it was a terrible car
What I'm saying is during it's time where the demographic values brand name more than quality
This was a mistake
It was competing head on a competition that's very tight
It's only recently people start to realize its value. This will rise in price in the future that's for sure but because of that Clarkson said it'll take a while
Did you even read my comment LOL
I never said it was terrible
People always ask if I'm selling mine...I love the look and feel. Have only needed tires and regular maintenance and I'm at 112k miles. Only thing I don't care for is the cupholder
"Get in Loser, we're going shopping!"
Thank you omg
Periodt
YES
Love the host Alex Kersten. He has a great personality and sense of humor. Subscribed!
I would also say while the engine isn't bad, it does need a extra 10% of torque to give it that feel of "speed security". The idea that when merging you will never need to go full throttle. That the car can easily do a short on ramp without breaking a sweat.
Seats, definitely agree. The most comfortable seats I've ever had the pleasure of using were a Lexus ct200h which were amazing, and does seem to be a Lexus strong point.
Just add a tune and exhaust and you’re there
I just drove one. I think for having a V8, the acceleration was underwhelming but definitely smooth power delivery. I wouldn't mind having one
Very informative and entertaining. Thank you!
I owned an '92 SC400 as a daily driver, beautiful machine, despite what others say I really liked driving it hard. There was a review I read of the SC430 that showed it had a better lap time than similar cars, yet they rated it poorly because the suspension felt soft... It's got 4 wheel dual wishbone suspension, besides anyone really wanting to push a car is going to change at least shocks and springs.
My problem with Toyota since 2000 or so is the lack of a good, powerful, RWD, manual trans car. I realize most other manufacturers did the same thing, I just can't like an auto for a car I occasionally would track.
My problem with the SC430 is the weight. The trans can be changed out, not cheap. So I'll buy a used SC430: Put the thing on a diet, change out the suspension for something reasonable, change out rubber and wheels, lighten some interior parts, then enjoy driving it for fun. Good car. I think they can look great in the right colour, at the right height, with the right wheels and tires.
Just get a sc300 and turbo it
Had the SC400 already, so would want something different. I've also got a 7M-GTE powered 1st Gen Celica, so again would want something different... Always wanted to force feed and manual swap a UZ series engine.
I am so glad I wasn't the only person who completely disagreed with the consensus that Top Gear made about the SC430. The 4.3L V8 is one of the very best engines ever produced. There are a lot of bad cars on the road and this definitely isn't one of them.
True!
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
👌
"From business meeting to Brothel" lol . That was a great meeting.
When i was 17 i worked in bk nyc. As a valet. Our lot was 6 blocks away from the club so we got to drive alot of new vehicles. Everything from 2003 era to 2006. When i drove this car it was so smooth and comfortable brand new. I cant even explain it. And has hoos enough power to get out the way. But there isnt alot of room for bagage.
This is one of my dream cars...
they are great, I recommend getting one
I'm with you on this. The reputation of this car was hurt, in my recollection, by three things. First, it replaced the beloved SC400, which came across as slightly sportier and had better-received styling. Second, if I recall correctly, it was expensive new which pushed it into a tough competitive set. And, last, it went for being a true luxury convertible, but didn't have a lot of back seat room, creating an expectation that it should be more like a Jag or SL500 Mercedes but it was softer than that. People expected something sportier and by that measure were disappointed. But, for what it was actually trying to be (a personal luxury convertible), it seems like it was a lot closer to the mark than people remember.
Worse car ever? Hardly. I've been driving this car since 2000 (USD63,000) and have had only a couple of minor issue in all that time. I'm now driving a 2004 w/ 62,000 miles - in perfect condition. Mine is white w/ tan interior and I still get compliments when I take it out. The car was designed without that dumb spoiler. They slap in on in order to up-charge you . I had mine removed which makes it look superb. I love this car! However, after 20+ years
w/ the same model I'm looking for a change - something a bit more responsive
btw- The stereo system is spectacular!
My grandparents have one of these with 115k miles and it feels so tight! Everything feels so solid it's ridiculous. Thing has some good torque too.
Congratulations on 2 million subscribers! This channel is the reason why I breathe! All jokes a side, thanks for making great content!! 🙌
I love that he didn't buy the Mercedes because of reliability issues. It's good to see someone who doesn't just fall for the "German engineering" lies. The SC430 seems like a great car! It's like the way people scowl over the Ferrari F50, just because Jeremy Clarkson says it's ugly and rattles and shakes apparently.
NOPE, the worst car in the world is the G-Wiz.
I think you mean BEST car in the world
Because Kristen scott has/had one
I wouldnt even call it a car lol
Frozn Fyre It's not even classed as a car (here in the UK at least) it's a quadricyle 😂
Its not ugly. It has a V8. Great luxury. Nice interoir. Hard top convertible. Comfortable and reliable
I have owned a Cadillac Allante, Ford Mustang convertible BMW 328ci, and a Chrysler Crossfire convertible.The BMW is clearly a great car, but the Lexus has been the best for a road trip. I enjoy driving it and the ride is as good as it gets. I only wish Lexus would reintroduce the small luxury convertible again so we could have all the latest electronics.
I bought I think the third car delivered to the US in 2001. My first new car, with my first out-of-college Silicon Valley job - no family then of course and plenty of dispensable income. A couple of kids later, mini van, and SUV, the SC430 is still alive and kicking with almost 200k miles on it. In fact, it was hard finding a baby seat (before the mini van) that fit the SC's micro sized back bench. But of course there are European models for European sized cars that fit well. I still use it for long distance driving to customers. Maybe not a sports car, but so quick and nimble in traffic on the freeway. Repairs? Well, mainly preemptive consumables like timing belts and such. Back in 2001 I was on the market for an SL500. No comparison to the luxury and performance of the SC430. I thought back then Mercedes was joking about the plastic look of the SL with a then outdated engine. Glad that I got the SC then. Two more years and I am due for vintage license plates. I hope it will last a lot longer than that.
Awesome!
Enjoyed reading your comment!
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS! 👌
This car isn't even CLOSE to the "worst car in the history of the world" really. Has everyone forgotten the Ford Pinto? The Mustang II? The Yugo? The Honda Element? The Pontiac Aztec? The Scion Cube? The Ford Probe? Anything Seat ever made?
OffRoadRN Agree on the pinto, Mustang II, but the other cars have made some sort of fanbase for them being so different to the rest of cars, making them some sort of likable in their own way...and have you not yet driven a Seat Leon Cupra 300? I recommend you doing that, they handle better than a golf R for instance and are not so bland. And obviously you can't take top gears word for serious, but I don't think I'd have to explain that.
Oi what's the matter with the Element
Even the Yugo has/had some sort of fanbase. That doesn't stop it from being a crap car. And they're all far, far worse than the Lexus.
So you think the Mustang II is a better car than the Lexus SC430?
Seek help...
An element is something in it's purest form. The Honda Element is automotive ugliness in it's purest form. It's ugly. It's slow. It's utter crap.
A future classic without question.
This Video shows how good the car is but also...how great Car Throttle is. Seriously...Brilliant presentation. THANKS for the content.
I have owned an SC430 for 4 years now and absolutely LOVE it. I have had zero issues with it and it's fun to drive. I had several Audi's and a BMW and had major issues with all of them. No more German cars for me.
The g37 is inspired heavily by the sc430 in design and with features
Indeed...The guys over at Nissan took this design, put a V6 in it, cut the price in half and the rest is history...
I think that the SC430 is one of the very few cars with a folding steel roof that doesn't have its looks ruined by a disproportionally large rear end.
I had a 2002 and this car gave me 250,000 miles with no problems . Never fixed anything but oil changes and flat tires . Great car !! 💜
Congrats on 2 million subs guys! 🎊
I think that this car looks good and is underrated. The recent predator grille with the thin L shape headlights design of Lexus is just weird to me.
You have no right to say this. We had one Lexus sc 430 and it was such a good car that we still miss it.
you might like my channel as I post videos of mine
For the Lexus SC430, I love it's predecessor, the Lexus SC400/SC300, because the first generation have different engine options and they even have the manual transmission as an option too, for the SC300 only, though. While the SC430, I absolutely love it too, because it's unique and for all the reasons, the video contains all of it, as long it was a facelifted model.
Honestly this car checks off everything I love in a car. A soft and controllable N/A V8, RWD, hardtop convertible, easy ride quality, nimble, and nice-looking.
NOICE
Chatter Person you stool my word
Chatter Person u call me m8?
Chatter Person TOIGHT
Chatter Person i
Nice pic
a smart happy owner with a gem of a car ,,, well played sir
11k for a hot lexus is a bargain
Especially when guys who bought the R230 SL500 instead are probably crying from the ABC suspension problems bankrupting them right now
My thoughts exactly! You can’t beat it for this amount of luxury, power, style and drop top factor!
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS!
It's all over the internet 👍
I own the 2003 for 18 years with 270k miles and still is running perfectly
Drove one once. I'd still have one now. It was a loaner while my LS was being serviced, and did the same sort of thing as the LS, and very nicely.
PS I'd like a red one.
I have a 2002 Lexus sc 430 and I love it! It’s a comfortable ride and runs very quiet. It’s a real head turner. I get compliments on it wherever I go.
It's a really nice car! 👏
What color is yours?
I wonder why JC hated it. It's a grand tourer, it's supposed to be comfy and a comfortable cruiser for a long trip.
With this, you could make a Super GT race car replica without even the need to swap the engine since they use the same engine in the race car version, albeit heavily modified. Slap some Eneos, Petronas or your other favorite sponsors on the car similar to those race cars, put a good quality race car bodykit and there you have it.
Muammar Gibran
How does he hate grand tourers and in the Romanian special, he brought the essence of what a GT car is the Aston Martin DBS Volante, he also loved the F12 Berlinetta for being an over powered GT car, he also loved the original DB9 which was praised for being the definitive GT car, Jeremy has shown to love what GTs are and the show has shown numerous examples of GT cars, this however isn't, the RR Dawn is what this car was to be, and imo ruins the SC name since the SC before this was a proper GT car, having the 2UZ and 2JZGE engine options with a manual option it was comfortable and when needed had that "umph" when you needed it.
This is more of a land mass that really had no segment to fill really.
Have a 02 430 w 42k on it. Just had a timing belt, water pump and control arms put on. Can’t wait to get it back. A great riding car
Finally somebody that agrees with me. And if you went to aftermarket suspension and got rid of the useless rear seats it is a very good platform
Astonishing!
I absolutely love it
The SC430 definitely has an unfair reputation. Beautiful and luxurious with a smooth V8 and a very different Lexus persona than today. Decide for yourself, not for some internet commentators.
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS! 👌
These hold their value of 10k and after some coilovers with dampers to decease “jiggle”, lower the profile a bit(don’t slam it unless it’s bagged)and nice after market wheels and you can break a few necks and pick up a nice lady or lad. Definitely underrated and like the nice gentleman said “bullet” LS400 is bulletproof and tankproof
I bought my SC430 seven years ago at 89k miles. It just turned 170k miles and is running as strong as ever. Mechanically it’s basically a well-built Toyota in a tuxedo. Except for replacing the timing belt, I have had only normal maintenance and wear and tear expenses. I avoid spending $$$ at the dealership by having a regular local mechanic work on it. I got parts to rebuild the entire front suspension from Amazon for $95. Aftermarket Toyota parts from AutoZone and O’Reilly works fine. Whenever the check engine light comes on, I get a free electronic diagnosis at Auto Zone or O’Reilly and buy the parts from them. The roof has never leaked. As far as power goes, if you take off with it in 4th gear, she will FLY. I buy regular tires from Discount Tire. I love convertibles and I like that I can park it anywhere without worries of a thief sticking a knife in the hardtop roof.
I found a way of getting more trunk room by storing a donut spare tire from a Mazda RX7. I consider the “back seat” as simply an extra space for a bag for overnight trips. As the book value on it now is only a few grand, I have cheap basic liability insurance on it from Geico. I buy oil and filters from Walmart. (Most people don’t know that Walmart’s oil is made by Pennzoil). By making smart frugal purchases of aftermarket parts, using local mechanics, and keeping the oil changed, the costs of maintaining a Lexus SC430 is the same as any other car- that’s why I bought one… BMW and Mercedes doesn’t have a lower tier of a brand, but Toyota parts will fit an SC430.
I LOVE my Lexus SC430 and am looking forward to putting another 200,000 miles on it. ❤
As a kid my I was in absolute awe of my uncle's sc430. I mean it had a v8!! And I was like 10!
I didn't even know this was a thing until I saw your video title. WTF!?! This has always been one of my most favorite cars!!
Crazy how a lot of people see Clarkson as a ''god''…
Whatever he says, people think the same and don't have their own opinion… smh
This SC is an awesome reliable car like every other LEXUS! 👌
I live in Florida. Every 10th car is a Lexus... You can drive this car every day for 20 years and 300,000 miles and it will still feel like new...
I'm glad Top Gear said what they said because it's finally affordable for people to experience nice lexus luxury