Lexus SC 400 (1992-2000)

The 1992–2000 Lexus SC 400 is the V8-powered sibling of the SC 300 and was part of the first-generation Lexus SC (Sport Coupe) lineup. It represents Lexus’s early push into the luxury grand touring segment — blending refined Japanese engineering with smooth, powerful performance and premium comfort.

Overview

• Production: 1991–2000 (1992–2001 model years in the U.S.)
• Platform: Shared with the Toyota Soarer (Z30 chassis) in Japan
• Body style: 2-door luxury coupe
• Designer: Erwin Lui at Calty Design Research (California)
• All SC 400s were rear-wheel drive, emphasizing smoothness and refinement.
• No manual transmission option; all used automatic gearboxes.

Engine & Performance

• Engine: 4.0L 1UZ-FE DOHC V8
• Power:
  • 1992–1997: 250 hp @ 5,600 rpm, 260 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
  • 1998–2000: 290 hp with VVT-i update
• Transmission: 4-speed automatic (no manual offered)
• 0–60 mph: ~6.6 seconds (early models)
• Top Speed: Electronically limited to ~149 mph

Features

• Focused on smooth performance, quietness, and long-distance comfort rather than aggressive sports handling.
• Luxurious interior with leather upholstery, power seats, premium audio, and high build quality.
• Advanced for its time: automatic climate control, high-end Nakamichi or Pioneer stereo, and optional traction control.

Changes over the years

• 1997 facelift: Updated front bumper, headlights, taillights, and wheels.
• 1998 update: Engine gained VVT-i, boosting power and improving fuel efficiency.
• Production ended in 2000 for the U.S., succeeded by the SC 430 in 2001.

Year-by-year breakdown of the Lexus SC 400 (1992–2001)

Year	Key Features & Updates	Engine / Performance
1992	Launch year in U.S.; luxury GT coupe with smooth styling, based on Z30 Toyota Soarer. Standard leather interior, 4-speed automatic, premium audio.	4.0L 1UZ-FE V8, 250 hp, 260 lb-ft, 0–60 mph ~6.6s.
1993	No major changes; minor trim and option adjustments.	Same as 1992.
1994	Added passenger airbag; improved audio and optional CD changer.	Same as 1992.
1995	Dual airbags standard; side-impact protection improved; minor ECU and suspension tweaks.	Same 4.0L V8, 250 hp.
1996	OBD-II diagnostics added; minor equipment updates; daytime running lights on some markets.	Same engine output.
1997	Facelift: New front bumper, grille, headlights, taillights, mirrors, and wheels. Interior trim updates.	1UZ-FE V8, 250 hp; 0–60 mph ~6.7s.
1998	Major engine upgrade: VVT-i added to 1UZ-FE; output jumps to 290 hp, 300 lb-ft; improved fuel efficiency. 5-speed automatic replaces 4-speed. Traction control improved.	4.0L 1UZ-FE VVT-i, 290 hp.
1999	No major visual changes; standard features list grows; side airbags optional in some markets.	290 hp V8 with 5-speed auto.
2000	Last full model year; production winding down. Features largely carry over.	Same 290 hp VVT-i V8.
2001	Final units sold in U.S. as leftover inventory; replaced by SC 430 (Z40).	Same V8, limited availability.