As there are courses for horses, there seems to be certain special cars that fit owners to a “T.”  The 2008 SC 430 is one that fits me best at this time of my life.

I have had my SC since October 22, 2008 . . .    When it arrived in my driveway delivered by the dealer, an exquisite pleasure welled up within me.  I did not move for a few moments feasting my eyes on it.

Unlike the opinions written by some reviewers who thought the style of the SC was aging by this model year, I love the look of the car.  I consider it a classic design much like the artistry in artwork, music, handguns and vintage automobiles.   A good design remains pleasing to me regardless of whether it’s my first impression or a matter of repetitive experience.   The look of the SC pleased me when I first saw it person and continues to do so today after being behind the wheel each day for six months.

The engine and transmission were made for my kind of driving.  The power plant has a soft purr while performing at modest speeds but matures quickly to an aggressive growl when the pedal is pressed to the floor to pass others on the highway.  I don’t need faster acceleration on city streets or at the entrance onto an on ramp.  I do need power at my command on the interstate and the SC meets my needs quite well.

One unique experience I had from the start with the SC was that the brakes did not require the period of time to set properly as had a previous card I had owned.  Nor did I find the break-in period for the engine, transmission, shocks or springs to be excessive.  In fact, I found myself driving my normal way almost immediately.

The SC is appointed sedately and yet with a richness of quality that envelopes me in a sense of luxury.  I like this!  I also like the placement and visibility of controls.  It takes no effort or eye movement away from the road for me to identify speed, RPM, engine temperature or fuel readings.  The Navigation system and audio unit controls are also convenient and easily manipulated.  I refrain from commenting here on my criticism about not being able to add to or revise my nav desires while the car is in motion.  This is a failure of the system creator in concert with Lexus found in all models and not solely with the SC model.

Based upon the many complaints I had read about the run-flat tires when I did my basic research, I decided not to accept run-flats when I placed my order for the car.  I opted instead to have Michelin Pilot® Sport A/S 245/40ZR18 93Y Black Sidewall tires mounted as part of the deal.  These tires have proven to be silent and a good choice.  They provide a comfortable drive and at the same time allow me to safely control the movement of the SC through sharp curves in the road or to avoid obstacles that come into sight at the last moment.

In my younger days I have owned “hot” performance cars.  I have also had really large land cruisers weighed down with lots of sheet  metal.  I have owned 4, 5, 8, and 12 cylinder cars.  For the past ten years, each time I have gotten a new a car, I did so with the thought that it might be my final car.  If indeed the SC is my final car, I have no regrets getting it.   The SC satisfies my senses, feeds my need for comfort and coddles me in the luxury I enjoy.  And yes, it also comes  equipped with all of the bells and whistles that I crave.

My wife saw one a couple of weeks ago and was very interested in this car.  She wanted to know if it had the same quality interior as the LX 570.  Does it?  By that I mean the ultra soft leather coming in many colors/shades, the hardwood on the dash coming from the same tree like on Rolls Royce, etc.  I said not, because the LX is kind of a showcase?  In any case, I'm sure it's a very high quality interior, but I told her I had no interest whatsover because, I told her, even the G35 and the 350Z have more power.  This V8 should have at least 50 hp more, currently it's at 288HP, is that right?

Other than that, I think this car is very good looking, and oozes build quality and class.  Not sure about the engine though.  In any case, it's such a nice feeling when we're in love with the car, I understand you completely.

glad you're loving the ride.  Sometimes my infatuation with the G fades... but then I ride in someone else's car and fall in love with the G all over again!

Thank you joeBB calling to my attention that I have just experienced another senior moment.

The date I meant to type is MAY 22, 2008 and not yesterday October 22, 2008 when I started writing my comments.

It can happen to anyone Carbuff.  And I agree the Lexus SC has a classic
style, from the rear to the interior.  The whole car is a touch of class.   

That's nice dear.  It still looks like a lump.  Bring back the look of the SC300/400.

Agreed. The current styling may be a little more controversial, but it certainly isn't a lozenge ... or a suppository!