Lexus SC Z40
A serene V8 grand tourer defined by its pioneering folding hardtop and impeccable Lexus refinement.
- Power
- 282 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.9 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$28k
About the Lexus SC Z40
The second-generation Lexus SC, known as the Z40, transitioned from the sleek coupe styling of its predecessor to a sophisticated retractable hardtop convertible. Designed at Toyota's ED2 studio in France, its aesthetic was inspired by the luxury yachts of the Côte d'Azur. It is powered by the silky-smooth 3UZ-FE V8 engine, prioritising effortless cruising and cabin silence over aggressive sports car dynamics. While often criticised by contemporary journalists for its soft handling, it has aged into a respected modern classic valued for its exceptional build quality and reliability.
Lexus SC Z40 specs
The Lexus SC Z40 produces 282 bhp (210 kW) and 419 Nm (309 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | Lexus |
|---|---|
| Model | SC |
| Generation | Z40 |
| Trim | 430 |
| Years | 2001–2010 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 72,475 built |
| Original price | About $62,000 when new |
| Engine | 4.3-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,293 cc (4.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 282 bhp (210 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 419 Nm (309 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.9 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,740 kg (3,836 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 162 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Lexus SC Z40 worth?
A typical Lexus SC Z40 is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $28,000 (about £6,700 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $62,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Lexus SC Z40 rarity in CarSpot
The Lexus SC Z40 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 11 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Lexus SC Z40 fun facts
- The SC 430 was the first Lexus to be equipped with a retractable aluminium hardtop, which could transform the car in just 25 seconds.
- Lexus engineers spent time in Saint-Tropez to observe local lifestyles, ensuring the car's design reflected the atmosphere of high-end French Riviera resorts.
- The Mark Levinson premium sound system was specifically tuned to adjust its equalisation automatically when the roof was lowered to maintain audio quality.
