6 Iron

Assuming the seat controls were working appropriately, yes. I will say that it did not feel like 38 inches of headroom though, relative to other cars.

mak89

iTrader: (6)

As others have said, if your gonna go for a sc400 go for the 98-00 years. Not only does this have a more powerful, efficient engine, but had a 5 speed auto!

I've had a 95 sc400 (bought for parts) and a 99 sc400, and there is no comparison. The 98-2000 years are much more refined, powerful stock.

Go test drive a 98-2000 model sc400, not sc300, and you'll understand its benefits.

SupaDoopa

I was going to suggest that you sit in them and drive them both before deciding. Finding a unicorn doesn't mean a thing if you can't enjoy it properly. I know this is kind of a weird suggestion but if you're looking for sporty, have you tried the newer IS model line? Even an IS300 is a great deal of fun, reliable and still a sporty option. Kind of the best of both worlds with an extra set of doors.

Duck05

This is a tough choice. I have a highly modify '92 SC300 and it has been great fun revitalizing it this past 5 years. But now my daily driver is the wife's "hand me down" '01 LS430 which has the 290hp V-8 that is in the 98-00 SC4s. I enjoy both.

Completely different vehicles for sure.

If you are only looking for a stock, daily driver and never go down the modification path (body kit, lowering the suspension, 19 or 20 inch wheels, big brake kit mod, etc) on an SC4, you may be better served with an 04-06 LS430. It is a larger car but it is way more versatile than an SC4.

SCs can be challenging to own as they do require a lot of TLC and attention where the LS is a rock solid performer. If you do solve the seating issue on the SC, go in with your eyes open but either choice can work out..... Good luck.... Let us know where you end up...

pogoism9

iTrader: (1)

Ls430 is a 3UZ. That one should be 300hp 325tq. Functionally identical to the 1UZ VVTi though, as i'm pretty sure the 1UZ was the test bed for that very engine.

Duck05

No argument on the 3UZ but for the 2001 the specs are:

Engine liters, 4.3. Cylinder configuration, V-8. Horsepower, 290-hp @ 5,600 rpm. Torque, 320 lbs.-ft. @ 3,400 rpm. # of valves, 32. Variable valve control.

Same hp - obviously not the "same" engine so poor phrasing on my part. ..... (4.0 vs 4.3, etc)....

Hil

iTrader: (61)

I like what everyone is saying - I have a 99 SC400 and love it over the 92 and 97 I had before.

I put in Recaro seats which gave me a few extra inches of headroom. I'm not really that tall - 6ft - but like to have the space above to feel more roomy.

LEXXIUM

iTrader: (1)

No, you're not crazy, you just love those sexy body lines our beautiful scs has to offer, I love both of my sc400s, there just part of me deeply I love with these cars that every time I look at it it makes me want to do something to it, to make it look better, handle better and go faster and just have a seat in it. It's a very gratifying and very luxurious and there is nothing out there that comes close to sexiness and comfort!!!!
Don't let the forum decide for you, you know why you're here ..... 22k is a needle in a haystack she's gorgeous I bet, but on the other hand if it's a 98+ It's a bonus on features you get and faster drivetrain, $13000 is a lots of cash for a 98- that's just my opinion

good luck on your purchase!!!