Having owned the 2IS previously, I can tell you that a light touch of wood is appropriate for the car.

The SC's mantra is luxury, and more wood is appropriate. It feels plush (and heavy); there's a grandeur to it.

However, for the IS, less wood for a more sporty demeanor is expected. I enjoyed the high gloss of the wood, and too much of it would have made it a bit too heavy-looking and conservative. Most people who've sat in my car have complemented the balance and feel of the car's luxo-sport interior. The IS pays more attention to other aesthetics...

 

I agree on buying used, however a used Maserrati would make me a lot more nervous than a used Lexus!

What surprises me the car mags will have articles on the most fun bang for the buck on used cars and the SC is never mentioned. Given the retractable hard top, v8, rear wheel drive and unheard of reliability for a fun car except maybe the Miata (which the mags rightfully love), why don't they every mention the SC?

 

It's surprising how polarizing the SC430 is. Either you love it or hate it. Haven't found too many people with a middle of the road opinion. It's a beautiful car, that if you don't own one, you forget about until you see one again. I think it's a work of art.

I was looking at convertibles for a month until I thought about it.