1992 Lexus SC400

Description

Remember when we got our first glimpses of the all-new Lexus SC? Just a headlight here, or a fender there in period ads? It turned out to be the most attractive big coupe of the 1990s, and this 1992 Lexus SC400 is the one you always wanted to own, offering superlative V8 power and impeccable build quality, along with that handsomely styled bodywork.

Big coupes come and go, but the history books will probably identify the Lexus SC as one of the better designs from Japan. Clean, elegant, and with a minimalist approach that lets the sheetmetal do the talking, it was everything the Lexus brand was trying to achieve in its early days. This one has clearly been well maintained over the past 24 years (yes, it's been that long) and shows quite well in its original Silver Spruce metallic paint, which plays over the interesting creases and angles without becoming too showy. As you'd expect, build quality is impeccable, even by today's standards, and the factory paint remains shiny and lustrous, which is typical of Lexus. There are a few minor signs of use, of course, but this one has really been treated well, with clear headlight lenses, bright chrome trim, and only a minor crack in the front air dam, which is probably inevitable with a low-slung car like this. Out back there's an optional trunk spoiler as well as gold-plated emblems that were all the rage in the early '90s.

The beautiful leather interior is why Lexus is the powerhouse it is today. Beautifully stitched from top-quality materials, it still looks contemporary and attractive today. The leather seating surfaces remain in excellent shape with only minor comfort marks on the seats and everything else almost completely unmarked. The familiar Lexus electro-luminescent instrument panel snaps to life when you turn the key and the low-slung bodywork makes the luxurious coupe feel sporting but not claustrophobic or harsh. Everything was standard, of course, from A/C and power windows, locks, seats, and mirrors, to a spectacular AM/FM/CD stereo with a 10-inch subwoofer and CD changer, and even heated seats are part of the package, although it seems that this car spent its life someplace warm. There's a modest back seat that's for short trips only, but the trunk is large and well-shaped, making this car ideal for road trips.

The SC400 used the same 4.0 liter DOHC V8 found in the flagship LS sedan. Making a rather substantial 250 horsepower, it pulls the coupe around with ease and never, ever lets you hear it working. There's a very faint V8 burble from the tailpipe, but in all respects, this engine is a silent and reliable servant. The engine bay is beautifully maintained and spotless throughout, showing original markings and zero modifications (not that hot-rod Lexuses are all that common). Go on, take a closer look; that engine bay is almost as good as it was sitting on the showroom floor. And thanks to Toyota's legacy of excellence, this car will probably continue to run beautifully for years to come. The 4-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, the all-independent suspension is athletic but never harsh, and there are big disc brakes at all four corners. Those gold BBS-style wheels were installed at the dealer before the car was delivered to its first owner, and they now carry 225/55/16 performance radials.

Documented with the original window sticker, maintenance records, bill of sale, and manuals, this one-owner Lexus SC has "future collectable" written all over it. Call today!