One styling criticism seemed to rear its head with admirers and hecklers alike, the wheels. While impressively large in diameter at 18-inches, their design is at the very least unorthodox. A less complicated set of rims would compliment the car's uncluttered lines with better results - a premise validated by aftermarket wheels gracing the majority of SC 430s I've seen driving around the west coast, California to B.C.
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| A common criticism from admirers and hecklers alike is the design of the unorthodox 18-inch wheels. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
But a negative so easily corrected is no reason to negate what is arguable one of the best built convertible sports coupes available. Except for a few minor irritations it's flawless, enhanced by a quality and reliability record second to none.
What might be most impressive is its relative bargain price. While $85,500 is hardly transportation for the needy, compared to its $110,000 Cadillac XLR and $124,900 Mercedes-Benz SL500 rivals it makes a person wonder just what is missing from the SC's equipment list.
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| Kudos to Lexus for building such an exemplary product at nearly $40,000 less than its topmost competitor. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
In actual fact, feature for feature all three cars are almost identical, with the SC 430's Mark Levinson designed 9-speaker, 440-watt 8-channel amplified, in-dash 6CD audio system possibly the best in class. Also, its on road performance is within striking distance of its contemporaries and refinement, well, worthy of the now revered Lexus name.
What is more important to some, the brand's top ranking in J.D. Powers 2003 Initial Quality Study (IQS) and 2003 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), as well as the number one position out of 37 automakers in Consumer Reports recent automotive reliability study, competitions in which Cadillac fared well but Mercedes-Benz failed miserably, makes the SC 430 quandary an open and shut case.