TJCali

Hey guys,

Seriously, are the real world differences fairly minor between the early SC400 versus the latest SC400s produced? Is it worth the extra $10k+ premium for the newer car or is it essentially the same?

I know the late model SC's had minor exterior cosmetic changes, gated shifter, 3-spoke steering wheel, and a 40hp increase and 5-speed transmission.

Personally, I don't think the 97+ cosmetic changes are an improvement, but the gated shifter and 3-spoke steering wheel look sportier and more luxurious.

However, is there a noticeable improvement in performance and driveability with the 290 hp/5-speed drivetrain? Or are the differences minimal? I would not think a 40 hp change in a heavy 3700 lbs car would be that noticeable, but I have never driven a late model SC.

Please help. Thanks!

Blizzy

iTrader: (-1)

If you don't prefer the 97+ body, don't waste your time toiling ove the issue.

If you can find a 96- SC in similar condition mechanically and cosmetically for $10k less, I would say go for it without hesitation. For $10k, you can get a three spoke wheel, swap the gated shifter, and have WAY more than 290hp.

TRD_Power

I read this really quickly and think you pretty much listed all the changes besides not having to push a button to see the outside temp. I agree with the body updates not being an improvement, but everybody else in here will argue that... They just look too busy in my opinion. Anyways, it's up to you whether or not you believe those options are worth the extra money. For any other questions, try the search tab pretty much everything on these cars have been discussed.

O. L. T.

iTrader: (17)

Mostly the people who can't afford a 98+ will tell you the 93-97 are aWeSoMe!!

Everyone else will tell you the truth. Heck yes it is an improvement and worth every dime.

sonyman

The only real differences are the drivetrain, and the exterior. It's up to you to decide if it's worth it or not.

TJCali

Please tell me why you feel the newer cars are such an improvement. Thanks.

By the way, I can afford either car, but don't mind saving a few bucks. Also, the SC will be my 3rd car and share daily driving duties with my sedan to reduce the miles on my sedan.

Thanks again for your help.

Baoser

I would say otherwise...since I own a 97, and Ryan you tripping...you wanted to get a 98 not too long ago...

Plus a 00 would have newer stuff on it overall, so you can hold off on the maintenance for a little bit at least...

Sly Guy Yu

lemme tell u the features the 2000 sc400 has over the 93.

-290hp 300tq vvti v8 compared to the 93's 240hp
-5spd automatic for much better gas mileage and performance
-better leather
-3 spoke steering wheel that looks much more modern
-daytime running lights
-97+ styline (EXCELLENT)
-new center cluster (mpg, avg mpg, temp, avg spd)


those are just the major things off the top of my head. There is much more, check out intellexual.net

O. L. T.

iTrader: (17)

^^ you forgot the new projectors in the headlights.

TRD_Power

I too could afford both with ease, someting about the '95-'96 body just really gets me. I do envy the gated shifter, more power, and extra gear though

Sly Guy Yu

AHHH YEA THE GATED SHIFTER!!!!!! totally forgot.

Sly Guy Yu

Oh and also the 2000 sc400's have preforated leather.

TRD_Power

I WANT THAT! Get the '00.....

LexAnt

iTrader: (2)

don't forget that the supposed 240-250hp rating of the earlier V8s are actually overrated. from dynos, it's more like 220hp (180rwhp) at the crank whereas those VVTI put down close to 240rwhp which is more congruent to its 290hp crank rating.

TJCali

Hmm, some of the upgrades are starting to look more desirable.

Personally, the cosmetic upgrades I find most appealing are the gated shifter, 3-spoke wheel and nicer perforated leather, but i'm not sure if it is still worth the $$$.

However, if the early cars were truly much weaker (180 rwhp is wimpy) than the VVTI cars, then I might have to reconsider.

I'm confused and need to drive a 2000.

Is the only differences between a 1998 and 2000 just the steering wheel and perforated leather?

Thanks again guys.