Is the LC 500 based on the LFA?
The LC 500 is not based on the LFA. It sits on a different architectural foundation, uses a different powertrain, and was designed for broader production than Lexus’ limited-run halo car.
To understand the claim, it helps to look at how the LC 500 and the LFA were developed. The LFA was a purpose-built, limited-run high-performance car from Lexus’ early F program, while the LC 500 is a front-to-back grand tourer introduced in 2017 that rides on a modern Lexus architecture aimed at multiple models. Though both carry the Lexus F badge and share a performance ethos, they come from distinct engineering paths.
Background: LFA vs. LC 500
The LFA debuted in the early 2010s as a limited-production halo car with a hand-built V10 engine and a carbon fiber–heavy construction. It was designed to showcase Lexus’ performance capability and engineering prowess, and only a few hundred examples were produced. The LC 500, by contrast, launched years later as a mainstream, high-end two-door that emphasizes grand-touring comfort and daily usability, while still offering strong performance.
Key differences in architecture and powertrain
Below is a concise comparison of the core technical and production differences between the LC 500 and the LFA.
- Platform and chassis: LC 500 rides on Lexus’ GA-L platform designed for multiple large-performance models; LFA used a bespoke, highly engineered structure with extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced components.
- Engine: LC 500 uses a 5.0-liter V8 producing about 471 horsepower; LFA uses a 4.8-liter V10 producing about 553 horsepower and revving toward very high redlines.
- Transmission: LC 500 employs a 10-speed automatic transmission; LFA used a 6-speed automated sequential manual (a single-clutch setup) tied to its V10.
- Production scope: LC 500 was designed for broad, global production and sales; LFA was a limited-run halo car with only around 500 units produced worldwide.
- Materials and construction: LFA emphasized CFRP and other exotic materials in pursuit of extreme stiffness and lightness; LC 500 relies on more conventional aluminum/steel construction with select advanced components.
- Objective and feel: LFA was engineered for a high-revving exotic experience with track-focused dynamics; LC 500 aims for refined grand-touring with strong performance and everyday usability.
In summary, these differences show that the LC 500 is not a derivative of the LFA, but a separate model built on its own modern architecture and engineering.
Bottom line
No. The LC 500 is not based on the LFA. It uses the GA-L architecture and a V8 powertrain developed for broader production, while the LFA was a limited-run, bespoke halo car with a V10 engine and a different construction philosophy.
Summary
The LC 500 and the LFA share a brand family and a performance ethos, but they inhabit different corners of Lexus’ history. The LFA represents a highly exclusive, carbon-fiber–heavy, high-revving halo car from the early 2010s, whereas the LC 500 is a mass-market grand tourer introduced in 2017 built on a modern, flexible architecture with a V8 engine. The LC 500 is not based on the LFA; it stands on its own engineering foundations while reflecting Lexus’ ongoing performance lineage.
Is the LC 500 faster than the LFA?
Now. Yeah beaten but then that weighs 1,600 kilos this is 1950 kilos you had a weight advantage.
What is the Lexus LC based on?
The Lexus LC (レクサス・LC, Rekusasu LC) is a grand tourer manufactured by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Based on the 2012 LF-LC Concept, it was revealed at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Why did Lexus make only 500 LFA?
However, the meticulous tendencies of Lexus are why their largest project failed. With over ten years of development, the release of the LFA was a significant failure. Limiting production to only 500 cars, Lexus anticipated that its exclusivity and high price would drive up desirability.
Is the Lexus LC 500 in Forza Horizon 5?
The 2021 Lexus LC 500 - abbreviated as "Lexus LC 500 '21" - is a rear-wheel drive grand tourer by Lexus. It appears in Forza Horizon 5 as part of Series 19 and in Forza Motorsport (2023).
