1999 Lexus SC300 review from North America
"Sedan-like feel in a snappy performance coupe"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing has gone wrong.
Had a Lexus dealership and a local mechanic check over the car. Both agreed the car is in superb condition. No leaks anywhere, everything original, and original screws have not been turned -- indicating nothing has been replaced.
General comments?
Have had this SC300 just a short time. I am impressed with both its performance and its comfort. It's a silken drive. My other car is an exotic, and the Lexus compares favorably to it. It's got some power, and handles quite well. For its age, it's pretty impressive -- with a lot of futuristic features that were ahead of their time, and still function perfectly.
Acceleration is smooth. It has no problem leaping from 60 to 85. The gas pedal is extremely responsive, almost too much so. Braking is smooth and effortless -- though I do like to pump them a little till the car warms up.
For a sports coupe, it was pretty pricey, at nearly 50,000 loaded, when it came out in 1999. It's not an easy car to find in sterling condition, but a little searching should net you a great, reliable, serviceably-quick vehicle.
Inside it's luxurious. Features are easy to locate and use. Overall I give this car high marks. If you're looking for a sports coupe that is fun to drive, handles well, and can be used for quick hilly jaunts or long straight drives, a used SC300 is well worth the price.
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![]() ![]() | Expensive to upkeep, but a great car |
![]() ![]() | 1995 - SC300 3.0 liter in line 6 "You get what you pay for" (not in my case.) |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 92100 miles |
| Most recent distance | 92900 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Odyssey |
| Date of Entry | 21st March, 2007 |

