1992 Lexus SC Reviews, Pricing & Specs

This is one of the best cars ever made, period. That sounds a bit over-the-top but most professional car reviewers will agree and it set the standards of what cars are expected to do today. My car has 275K miles on it, still starts on the first try, drives like a dream, and still looks fresh, unique, and modern even 20 years after being built. The engine may seem underpowered by today's standards but few will want for more and passing power on the highway is outstanding. Interior ergonomics are excellent, all controls are intuitively placed, and the visibility from within is excellent. The power tilt-telescopic wheel with memory does it's dance when you start the car and reminds you what a treat you are in for! The most telling feature of this car is the fact that every power feature still works - the power windows, mirrors, tilt-wheel, power locks, the seat heaters, the cruise control, A/C controls, everything! I've owned 5 year-old GM and VW vehicles that have had more than one of these fail! These cars are one of the best kept secrets on the road and can be had for next to nothing! If you are a do-it-yourself type you'll find plenty of knowledge on the "ClubLexus" forums that can keep your SC rolling forever. These cars do have a couple of weak spots, like any car. The gauge cluster bulbs and the needles burn-out over time. Both are easily repairable by companies like Lextech, among others. Another common problem is the power steering pump lines, they leak over time and are directly over the alternator which shorts when flooded with fluid. Keep on top of the hoses and you'll have no problems. Also, watch for worn lower control arms. When the bushings are needing replacement (every 125-150k miles) you need to replace the entire lower control arm and they are a bit pricey, about $400-500 each. Interior window trim around the door glass can get fragile with time but replacements for most everything inside are still available from Toyota/Lexus. With such a small V8 you'd expect better mileage but 18/25 seems to be the norm, although 97-00 cars got slightly better mileage with the variable-valve-timing along with more horsepower. Popular upgrades to these cars include bolt-in Supra Turbo engine and brake conversions, HID retrofits, LED lighting upgrades, Supra 6-speed conversions, and much more! If you are looking for a 2-door car that will start every time, make you smile every drive, is supremely comfortable, is built with the strength of a battleship, and will still turn heads this is the best choice for you!Apr 11, 2012

Performance not bad - acceleration good need supercharge for v8, braking so far so good need big brake with drill and hole to cool down, handling front too heavy but full fuel tank help to balace Build Quality - has it needed repairs for suspension and limited slip differential Appearance - both interior and exterior styling like rear spoiler need big fender for wide wheel Sep 24, 2009

Its a pretty fast car but auto transmission, very solid car; no shaking, engine noises, cost pf ownership sort of high, very fun car to drive, especially with all the underpowered 4 cylinders flooding the market. Braking is exceptional, car is front heavy but to counter this it is a rear wheel drive, acceleration is brisk from 0-60 just under 7 seconds,the responsiveness of the car is well above average, and the v8 bellow is great to hear. Has a great Nakamichi sound system with great bass response. Overall, I really enjoy this car as an everyday car and weekend car for longer trips.Aug 31, 2009

Smooth, sleek, clean classic lines molded around a structually solid frame and a strong reliable engine makes this one car that can stand the test of time. The leather interior in this 17 year old car remains soft and supple throughout (unlike lesser cars that experience cracks). The dashboard remains unblemished from the heat of the sun - only a small crack on the vent louvre - none on the dashboard or anywhere else on the side panels. After 180,000 miles, the following have been repaired or replaced: 1) Timing chain 2) Power steering line (the expensive one!) 3) air conditioner compressor 4) Seals & gasket replaced. This is a "keeper" car that needs no pampering. The more you drive it, the cheaper it cost to own it. Apr 27, 2009

my ride is awesome, running a supercharged v8 it certainly packs a punch, i love taking on mountai races coz of the extra weight it makes it hug the road and doing smoke runs has never been so fun. also the leather interior make it a very comfortable ride and there is no shortage of gadgets to play with in the dash :), also a good way to learn japanese.Nov 17, 2008

Smooth car to drive, interior was and electronics were way a head of their time and reliable. Car performance was great with a throaty 4ltr V8 (1UZFE) and only got better with time. 1JZ-GTE also had amazing power and performance options. Handles extremly well witht the stock fitted Actie Air Bag Controlled Suspension, but fitted with aftermarket suspension improves ridginess and handling ability. Great car to drive and has no trouble turning 19's and going sideways.Jan 10, 2008