Greetings everyone! I own the 2006 RX400h and I think it has been good but I still can't wait to get rid of it. The car I initially wanted was the SC430 but something got in the way and is a long story I don't even want to touch... I will be making the change and getting the SC430 this year hopefully. I would like to hear from those who own both models or did at some point. Which model was more reliable? How much more gas did the SC430 consume? (yes I am aware is a v8 but I also know is not completely bad) Which model was more expensive to service in the long run? Feel free to mention anything else that might be important. Thank you all in advance.

 

I can't speak to the RX400h but we have 3 Lexus vehicles in the family - a '99 GS400, '02 SC430 and '17 GX470. All are great (yet different) vehicles. All are very reliable there are no problems out of any of them. My GS400 is dealer serviced to this day and yes, while it is expensive it is worth it. Service is covered on the GX470 since it is new.

I take it you want something sporty if you are looking at the SC430? Suffice to say you won't be disappointed. It's fast and fun. In the summer you'll really enjoy putting the top down but it's fun any time of year. Just get ready for people coming up to you and asking about the car

 

I own a 2006 RX400h and a 2002 SC430.
RX has 126k and the SC 60k.

Have had no repairs on either vehicle other than routine maintenance which is about the same on both.

The RX will get anywhere between 22 and 26 MPG.
The SC between 18 and 25.
Both depends on the type of driving, city/hwy.

They are totally different styles and for me both fit a need.

The RX is a daily driver that gets excellent mpg for the type vehicle it is.

The SC is a fun vehicle that the wife and I can cruise with the top down whenever the mood strikes.

It really just depends on what your needs and wants are.

I think reliability on either is not a problem.

 

Thank you both for the replies. I am a short girl and I think the the RX is too much car for me. One thing that I will miss from the RX is the gas economy which was always 26-29 MPG for me. Is just that when it comes to costs of ownership the RX is quite hard on me due to the fact that not many mechanics around my area dare to put their hands on a hybrid and the SC430 is much simpler and less intimidating for them which obligates me to take it to the dealership ouch!. I live in Florida so everyday is top down day lol. I plan on keeping the SC until it falls apart.

 

I love my 02 Sc430 and occasionally drive my wife’s RXs’ but they are very different cars. The RX is high up in the air, while the SC is low to the ground. There’s room for five any size people in the RX but really only you and one companion in the SC. The back seat is a cruel joke on anyone trying to sit there, even small kids.
Gasoline miles is comparable IMO about 16-20mpg. Service cost and reliability too EXCEPT if some goes awry with the SC’s convertible top. If that happens, as it did with mine, you will be regretting your decision. Fortunately for me the $5,500.00 was covered by an after market warranty. You should also consider the age of the car, not just the mileage. My 02, hand-built in April 2001 is more than 16 years old. But it has only 76,000 miles on and has been well maintained and enhanced. Even so, gaskets parrish and parts wear out over time, not necessarily miles.

Depending on model year the car has some peculiar quirks: stereo speakers (door woofers and subwoofer) which decay, then distort. Door rubber triangle seal which tears easily letting wind noise into cabin. (I drive with the top down 95% of the time in southern most Southern California so it really doesn’t effect me.) Earlier models had motor mount failures leading to unusual low RPM vibrations but once they’re fix I can’t tell the cars running when stop in traffic. In early model The NAV and radio systems are not really sophisticated for the rapid chances in technology which occurred after they were built. So I upgraded mine. Finally, a stiffer ride compared to my wife’s 2017 RX350. Run flat tires are standard issue for the SC are stiffer too. I decided to get the “correct” spare tire kit and regular sport tires to improve handling and ride. The kit reconfigures the trunk space, but if you are a top down driver, then there’s no trunk space anyway.

 

I have gotten 26 mpg highway in my SC430 on long journeys. Reliability is solid for such an old car. Just keep up with maintenance and you will be fine. Over the years, I have had all shocks replaced of which two were warrantied. A couple of oxygen sensors. One of my right side speakers needs replacing at this time. Rest were just regular wear and tear items. 92500 miles and going strong.

 

I second that, owned both and no major issue except regular maintenance & minor item.

 

Hi Laura, apart from the fact that they are a really nice car (SC430), & according to you that you are a short Girl, means you shouldn't have any problems seating two smaller people in the back seat. We've had ours for 18 months now & we both like it a lot. It takes a little getting used to it at first especially reversing. Wish you the best.

Chris.....From OZ.