My husband and I would like to buy a used Lexus convertible - can you all give me some advice as to whether I should get an SC430 or an IS350? He's 6'5" and seems to fit, but if anyone has insight on that as well... Maybe let me know if there are years to avoid? Thanks!!!

 

I think that's too tall for either of those cars personally.

 

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...-vs-sc430.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...nvertible.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...-or-sc430.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...10-is350c.html

It seems this question has been asked quite a bit before. Basically with the IS350C, you're getting a better vehicle on paper - slightly bigger backseat and trunk, some slightly newer tech, better mileage, etc. But I personally think the IS350C's exterior styling is nothing to write home about. Also, going from an SC to IS means going from flagship convertible to entry level convertible. The SC has more of an air of refinement, and it's from an era where most consider to be the golden age of Lexus. IMO, the IS350 is kind of just playing catch up with other luxury brands.

If I were to choose, I think I might go with the SC. I used to own an 08 IS250 sedan, and I liked it, but the styling of the 2nd gen IS-C rear just isn't for me.

 

Thanks for the info - I googled and looked at the different threads and didn't see anything. New to the site!

 

BAGWELL - We've decided that I will drive and he will recline! (It's going to be the third vehicle, so we won't use it all the time. Unfortunately my kids have already named it my "mid life crisis car"!)

 

I have read all of the threads provided earlier and still would LOVE to hear from some of you - it's a big decision! For instance, should we avoid the 2002 SC and 2010 IS models as they are the first year and may have glitches?

 

@molly1623 I owned a 2001 GS430 and a 2011 IS350. The SC430 would be my vote for the following reasons:

• The 4.3L engine is one of the best engines to ever sit in a Lexus.
• The engine is super smooth, buttery and acceleration/torque are excellent
• That engine is very refined from idle to highway cruising
• The SC styling is very classy both inside and out; it still turns heads and looks like an exotic compared to the IS350C
• Most options were standard (I think only Mark Levinson and some upgraded wheel/tires were not standard)

I'd say get the newest SC430 you can find - but any well maintained version (even with high mileage) and you will enjoy it. Here's a great example of one: https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/d...5372/overview/

 

I'll cast my vote for the IS as I was never a big fan of the SC430 styling, but obviously either can treat you well. The SC's V8 is pretty awesome, though.

 

At 6'-5", the SC430 is going to be waaaaay too uncomfortable. I am 6'-4", and I think I was more comfortable in a Miata than the SC430. Not enough head room or leg room.

IS350 is ok in the front with the seat all the way back, but its a very poorly built car. The only thing going for it is the engine, everything else is terrible.

 

Build quality of SC430 is on another level not to mention it comes with a V8.

If you can find one in decent condition- then that would be my choice of the 2.

Other Hardtop convertibles to consider are MB SL500, BMW e93 335i and current F33 440i.

 

Thanks so much everyone! I think I'm sold on the SC - drives great, it's much better looking, and the visibility with the top up is better. Seems that nobody has a serious problem with them, in fact most love them, so it's perfect!

 

The SC430 is going to be a tight fit but I think it’s so nice inside. I drove one at my job a year ago and I loved it. It’s very luxurious and the interior looks amazing.

 

SC is a beautiful car but be prepared to pay for maintenance.

 

I used to drive a SC430 (my family's car) it is one fine car. The craftsmanship and the quality of the material is at another level and the car is very solid. It is a slower car though (compared to IS350). The transmission is 5 speed if I remember correctly...

 

SC430, it still gives me a smile every time I drive it.