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When did they stop making the SC400?

The Lexus SC400 was a luxury coupe produced by Toyota's premium brand Lexus from 1991 to 2000. Production of the SC400 model was discontinued in 2000, marking the end of the first-generation Lexus SC line.


The Lexus SC400 Luxury Coupe


The Lexus SC400 was introduced in 1991 as the flagship coupe model of the Lexus lineup. It featured a powerful 4.0-liter V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a luxurious interior designed to compete with other premium coupes on the market. The SC400 was known for its smooth ride, refined performance, and high-quality craftsmanship that exemplified the Lexus brand.


The End of Production


Lexus produced the first-generation SC400 from 1991 to 2000, a total run of 9 model years. In the year 2000, Lexus discontinued production of the SC400 as they prepared to introduce an all-new second-generation Lexus SC model. The last SC400 rolled off the assembly line in July 2000, marking the end of the original Lexus luxury coupe.


Reasons for Discontinuation


There were a few key factors that led Lexus to discontinue the SC400 model in 2000:



  • Aging Design: The first-generation SC400 had been on the market for nearly a decade, and its styling was starting to look dated compared to newer luxury coupe models.

  • Declining Sales: Sales of the SC400 had been declining in its later years, as consumers shifted towards SUVs and other newer luxury vehicle segments.

  • Preparation for Next Generation: Lexus was preparing to introduce an all-new second-generation Lexus SC model, which would replace the aging first-generation design.


By discontinuing the SC400 in 2000, Lexus was able to clear the way for the launch of the redesigned Lexus SC430 coupe in 2001, which featured a more modern design and additional features.

What is a 1992 Lexus SC400 worth?


The value of a used 1992 Lexus SC 400 ranges from $2,415 to $10,702, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.



Are SC400 fast?


It's all in the name "sports coupe." Nearly all new cars today can put up better figures, but the 6.7-second launch to 60 mph and 145-mph top speed are more than adequate performance for a daily driver. We recorded 0.86 g of lateral grip when we first tested the SC in 1991.



Why did Lexus discontinue the SC?


The retractable hardtop convertible was polarizing during its 9-year model with a mid-life refresh for the 2006 model year, and ultimately slower sales until it was discontinued in 2010.



What year Lexus is to stay away from?


Lexus IS250 (2007-2012)
First up on the list is the second-generation IS250, which has earned a reputation as the Lexus model to absolutely avoid. The release of the IS250 saw a transition from a multi-point fuel injection system in the engine to a direct injection system instead.



Is the Lexus SC400 fast?


With shorter gearing and 246 fewer pounds of mass than the LS, the SC400 managed a zero-to-60-mph time of 6.7 seconds, 1.2 seconds better than the sedan. The 1997 SC400 added 10 horsepower, and the '98 gained even more power (reaching 290 horses) and an extra gear (now a five-speed automatic).



Are SC400 rare?


Looking as beautiful today as it did 20 years ago, SC400 just one of 243 built for the U.S. market in the final year of production.



Which Lexus SC has the 2JZ?


SC 300
In July 1992, the SC 300, a smaller-engined version of the SC 400, premiered in the United States. The SC 300 was equipped with a 3.0 L inline 6 2JZ-GE.



How long can a SC400 last?


With proper maintenance these cars will easily go 300,000 miles or more with little trouble. The engine is based on the old Toyota IRL racing engine, is durable, and built with forged internals!



What was the last year Lexus made the SC400?


The SC was discontinued three years later, with 2000 being the final model year; the car was replaced in 2001 by the 2002 SC430 convertible. Lexus made 82,538 examples of the SC, including 49,538 powered by the V-8 and 33,000 with the straight-six.



What is the rarest car in the US?


12 of the Most Exclusive American Cars Ever Made (from Muscle Car to Luxury)

  • 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88:
  • 1971 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda Convertible:
  • 1957 Pontiac Bonneville:
  • 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:
  • 1967 Dodge Coronet WO23:
  • 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge Convertible:
  • 1954 Kaiser Darrin:
  • 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car:


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.