Highlights

Low mileage for its age: 73,485 miles
Well-documented service history
Lesser-seen V8-engined ‘coupé-convertible’ with working retractable hard top

The Appeal

Convertibles with retractable hard tops are very costly to engineer, to the extent that few car makers will entertain the technology - even today. And that’s a shame, as folding hard tops are by far the better option when compared with the fragile, poorly insulated cabriolet roofs fitted to the majority of convertibles past and present. But Lexus did dare to go there with the ingenious Z40 generation SC. During the design process, Lexus sent its engineers to the Côte d’Azur to study the yachts and local architecture, and it’s this Mediterranean flavour that punctuates the design of this Japanese ‘coupé-convertible’. Add a 4.3-litre V8 to the mix, and you’ve got one mightily impressive package.

Today, they’re a rare sight in the UK, so be sure not to miss out on this low-mileage 2004 example. Original and well-presented, this SC480 looks to be in very good condition for its age. It also comes with a large history file, including a well-stamped original service book.

The History and Paperwork

V5C present
Two sets of keys
73,485 miles
UK market RHD example
MOT expired November 2023; the car will be submitted for testing prior to sale
Full vehicle check carried out by the vendor's on site mechanic; paper document included
Original warranty and care booklet
Service book stamped up to November 2021
Maintained by a mixture of Lexus main dealers and independent specialists
Datacard showing factory specifications provided by the vendor (see gallery below)

The Condition

‘Platinum’ paintwork
‘Helmsdale’ upholstery
Smart OEM alloy wheels with only the slightest of marks apparent
A comprehensive set of underside photographs is included in the gallery below
Working convertible hard top

With straight and solid-looking bodywork and good panel alignment/door fit all-round, this Lexus presents very well indeed. We understand the retractable hard top to be in good working condition, allowing this car to be enjoyed as a convertible once the summer comes around.

The impeccable original interior is a particular highlight as there’s exceedingly little wear apparent to upholstery, woodwork and controls. Even the carpet overmats look to be in excellent shape. The cabin is well-appointed for a car of this era and we understand the electrics to be in good working order, including the in-built factory audio.

The Mechanics

4.3 VVT-i V8 petrol
Five-speed automatic
Impeccably presented engine compartment

The SC doesn’t just look the part; it’s seriously quick, too. Lexus targeted the US market from the start, which explains the inclusion of the V8 engine mated to an automatic gearbox. Having undergone regular servicing for much of its life, this example is in good mechanical health and driving well.

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..