This is a 1997 Lexus SC 300 and it’s a look back to a totally different era of Lexus. The SC was a luxury coupe that helped launch the Lexus brand. We are thrilled to be offering this SC 300 for sale on CARS & BIDS!! Today I’m reviewing this 1997 Lexus SC 300 and I’ll show you the many quirks and features. I’ll also get behind the wheel and review the driving experience.
source.image: Doug DeMuro
A cozy interior with first-rate ergonomics and traditional Lexus opulence was created, making the car more like a 2+2 than a coupe capable of carrying four in comfort. Next, a smooth inline six-cylinder engine was implanted driving the rear wheels and giving the cars excellent acceleration.
In 1997 (1998 model year), both the SC 300 and 400 were upgraded with VVT-i and thus the ratings were raised to 290 hp (216 kW)/300 lb⋅ft (407 N⋅m) of torque for the SC 400 and 225 hp (168 kW)/220 lb⋅ft (298 N⋅m) of torque for the SC 300. Tests conducted on the new engines showed an acceleration for the SC 400 for years 1992–1995 of 0–60 mph in 6.9 seconds, years 1996–1997 in 6.7 seconds, and years 1998–2000 in 6.1 seconds.
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For the SC 300 an acceleration 0–60 mph in 6.8 seconds with the 5-speed manual and 7.2 seconds with the 4-speed automatic for all years. This 1997 upgrade included the replacement of the four-speed automatic on the SC 400 to a five-speed unit. With the replacement of the five-speed unit those models also got a new differential with a final drive of 3.27 improving both fuel economy and top speed.
