Lexus SC 430 Retractable Hardtop (2002-2010)

Z40 platform — Lexus's first dedicated convertible. 4.3L 3UZ-FE V8 (288 hp / 317 lb-ft 2002-2005, 300 hp / 325 lb-ft 2006+). Five-speed automatic 2002-2005, six-speed automatic 2006+. RWD. Power-folding metal retractable hardtop — 25 seconds to operate, automatic side-window dropping during cycling. Two-seat 2+2 with vestigial rear seats marketing-named 'rear seats' but adult-impractical. Standard equipment included full leather, Mark Levinson audio (later cars), navigation, eight-way power seats, automatic climate. Pebble Beach Edition (2009 final years) added unique paint, Saddle Tan or Truffle Brown leather, F Sport-style multi-spoke alloys. Total US SC 430 production ~36,000 cars across nine years. Production at Toyota Tahara plant. Discontinued 2010 with no successor — Lexus didn't return to convertibles or the personal luxury coupe segment until the LC 500 / LC 500 Convertible in 2017+. Now firmly affordable used and gaining cult-collector traction among 2000s open-top luxury car collectors.