The Lexus SC is a grand tourer vehicle that was sold by Lexus and built from 1991 to 2010. Lexus announced to the automotive media that it was about to unveil a similar model shortly after redefining the luxury saloon vehicle market with the introduction of the LS 400 in 1989. Lexus had its eyes set on the industry for mid-size luxury coupes in this period.
History of Lexus SC
Lexus SC First Generation Z30 (1991 - 2001)
Toyota's Calty Design Research Center in California, USA, was responsible for developing the exterior for the North American market. Using organically formed plaster molds and three-dimensional computerized imaging software, the team began work in 1987. The final draft of the design was approved in 1989. Lexus debuted its first premium coupe developed in the United States in 1991. Its swooping forms and curved appearance were totally in style for biodesign. Lexus took a risk with the first generation of the SC Coupe. Lexus intended to compete with the American luxury coupes of the 1990s, but it became a rival for the E-Class Coupe (W124) and the BMW 6-series (E24). The SC's first-generation saw only modest visual changes over its nine-year production cycle, which is a credit to the early design's durability. One of the significant changes occurred in 1997 with the introduction of variable valve timing across the entire lineup. Even though the model was never officially sold in the United Kingdom, their owners have imported many of these vehicles.
Lexus SC Second Generation Z40 (2001 - 2005)
Lexus first introduced the Sport Coupe idea at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show for the second-generation Lexus SC. This is also the fourth-generation Toyota Soarer. The second-generation model debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 2000, just in time for the Toyota Soarer's 20th anniversary—although the vehicle was not officially introduced until April 2001. The Lexus SC's predecessor was modified into a beautiful coupe-cabriolet to challenge the premium category, while the first generation was a luxurious coupe. Lexus opted to set itself apart from the competition in 2001 by introducing a luxury four-seat coupe-cabriolet. Neither Mercedes-Benz nor BMW had anything comparable on the table. Finally, Lexus had a distinct advantage over its main competitors. It had a unique shape for its class, and it took a completely different approach to the luxury segment. Lexus designed this generation for the younger, wealthier generation who were disappointed with the conventional style of the older brands.
Lexus SC Second Generation Z40 (2005 - 2010)
The automobile was already old in the premium market by 2005. Thus the manufacturer released an improved version. Toyota had to keep up with changing pollution laws because it was sold on three continents, including Europe. The SC was one of a kind in its class. From the 2006 model year onwards, a minor facelift was given out, visually accompanied by a modification in wheel style. Lexus did this upgrade in conjunction with the launch of Lexus in Japan in August 2005. Toyota stopped all Soarer branding after that, and the car was renamed the Lexus SC 430, putting Japan in step with the rest of the globe. For the second generation of Lexus SC, production ended in July 2010. However, Lexus managed to use the model until the conclusion of the 2011 season in its local Super GT effort in replacement of the departing Toyota Supra. Just one month before its introduction in the GT500 class at Suzuka Circuit, the racing SC prototype was unveiled. It was instantly competitive, taking first place in its first race and then finishing on the podium each year after that.
Price
Lexus sold the 2010 Lexus SC 430 with an MSRP of $69,280 ($78,238 for the 2022 exchange rate).
Features
Sotiris Kovos designed the automobile after being influenced by yachts. The SC had a redesigned long hood, sweeping headlights, and a six-slat grille with a chromed Lexus logo. Lexus put new fog lights on the bottom portion of the modified bumper, supported by a horizontal chromed bar. For the sportier SC model, Lexus offered unique accents and elements on the inside. It came with a new three-dial instrument panel with a speedometer in the center. Surprisingly, the luxury vehicle was still available with a cassette player. In fact, in 2010, the SC was also the last new car on sale in the United States to include a standard tape player.
Specs
The 2010 Lexus SC 430 engine delivers 288 hp (212 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) at 3,400 rpm of torque. The SC 430 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (96 kph) in 5.8 seconds with a top speed of 149 mph (240 kph) and a curb weight of 3,840 lb (1,742 kg). Lexus sold the SC 430 as a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle powered by a 4.3L V8 engine.
Release Date
Lexus unveiled its first premium coupe manufactured in the United States in 1991 and was discontinued in July 2010.