Is LC 500 too slow?
The LC 500 isn’t typically described as slow for its class; it offers brisk acceleration and a satisfying V8 soundtrack, though it isn’t a hypercar either. Here’s a detailed look at how it performs, handles, and stacks up against rivals.
Performance and powertrain
Key numbers that define speed and everyday acceleration are engine output, gearing, weight, and how the car translates power to the road. The LC 500 uses a natural-aspirated V8 paired with a modern automatic transmission to deliver brisk, linear performance.
- 5.0-liter V8: 471 horsepower, 398 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with manual shift mode
- 0–60 mph: about 4.4 seconds (varies by launch and drive mode)
- Top speed: electronically limited to around 168 mph
- Weight: curb weight roughly 4,280–4,350 pounds depending on trim
- Fuel economy: about 16 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / ~19 mpg combined (varies by configuration)
Compared with its hybrid sibling, the LC 500h, the V8-powered LC 500 focuses on a more immediate, muscular feel with a richer exhaust note, while the hybrid prioritizes efficiency and a smoother, quieter operation. For many buyers, the LC 500’s speed is ample for everyday roads and long highway cruises, with the emphasis on refinement rather than raw track performance.
LC 500 vs LC 500h: quick reference
In brief, the LC 500h uses a hybrid system that improves efficiency but generally delivers slower off-the-line acceleration than the V8 LC 500. The LC 500 remains the entry point for the line’s fullest engine note and peak straight-line speed.
Ride, handling, and comfort
Beyond straight-line speed, how the LC 500 feels on real roads matters to whether it feels “fast.” Its chassis and suspension are tuned to balance grace, control, and everyday usability.
- Chassis: near 50:50 weight distribution with a rigid structure for composed handling
- Suspension: adaptive dampers with multiple drive modes (Normal, Sport, Sport+); ride quality ranges from plush to firm
- Steering: precise, with progressively heavier feel in Sport modes
- Brakes: strong and controllable, with good initial bite
- Interior and comfort: high-grade materials, quiet cabin at cruising speeds, and comfortable long-journey seating
- Practicality: two seats and limited luggage space; aimed at grand-touring comfort more than daily practicality
When driven in its Sport modes, the LC 500’s throttle response and chassis stiffness can sharpen the sense of speed, while the refined ride helps keep long trips relaxed. It’s not a light-footed corner carver like some rivals, but it remains confident and comfortable at highway speeds and in sweeping turns.
Value, pricing, and trims
Pricing and options influence whether the LC 500 feels like a good speed-for-the-money choice. Lexus offers a well-equipped base model with several packages that can alter performance, appearance, and tech features.
- Starting price: typically in the low-to-mid six figures when fully equipped; base LC 500 prices are generally in the lower $90,000s range in the U.S., with higher trims and packages pushing higher
- F-Sport and other packages: add roughly several thousand dollars, depending on content
- Warranty: 4-year/50,000 miles basic; 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain
- Maintenance and ownership: premium-priced regular maintenance and parts consistent with luxury GTs
- Resale and used values: relatively strong for a luxury GT when well cared for, but depreciation varies with mileage and condition
For buyers prioritizing design, interior quality, and a classical V8 soundtrack, the LC 500 can represent solid value within its niche. If maximum track-ready speed or the sharpest dynamic performance are priorities, rivals may offer stronger numbers at similar or higher price points.
Rivals and how the LC 500 compares
To gauge whether the LC 500 feels “too slow,” it helps to compare with contemporary rivals that balance speed, handling, and daily usability in similar price ranges.
- Porsche 911 Carrera — renowned handling precision and strong performance; typically more agile and quicker in many driving scenarios, with a higher price and a more utilitarian daily use footprint
- Mercedes-AMG GT — a sportier, more aggressive stance with strong straight-line performance and track-ready dynamics; often pricier and more demanding in daily driving
- Audi R8 or Lamborghini Huracán — higher-end supercars with dramatic performance and styling; significantly faster but at substantially higher cost and ownership considerations
- BMW M8 Gran Coupe — combines practical seating with a potent drivetrain; very quick but heavier, with a different balance of comfort vs. sport
- Jaguar F-Type (V8 or higher trims) — engaging exhaust note and lively driving behavior; performance-V8 versions can feel sprintier, though not always more efficient or refined in long-distance cruising
Overall, the LC 500 sits in a niche that favors style, refinement, and a rich V8 experience over the razor-edged speed of some rivals. For many buyers, “not slow” is a fair descriptor, with the car delivering comfortable yet capable performance suitable for daily driving and long road trips.
Bottom line for prospective buyers
If you want a visually striking luxury GT with a memorable engine note, comfortable long-haul comfort, and healthy performance, the LC 500 fits well and offers more than adequate speed for most scenarios. If your measure of speed is track-ready pace or ultra-tight handling, you may find some rivals deliver more aggressive performance in those specific contexts.
Summary
Is the LC 500 too slow? Not for its intended role. It pairs a robust V8 with a refined chassis and comfortable ride, delivering brisk acceleration without sacrificing luxury or daily usability. It’s best described as a stylish grand tourer with credible speed, rather than a pure-blood sports car. For shoppers prioritizing extreme speed, look to rivals; for those seeking a striking, well-rounded luxury GT with a memorable engine, the LC 500 remains a compelling option.
