• This 1995 Lexus SC400 has us seriously considering a new daily driver.
• Not only does it have a silky 4.0-liter V-8 and a comfortable ride, the sleek styling hasn’t aged a day in the nearly 30 years since its launch.
• This well-kept example has just under 120,000 miles, with no-reserve auctions ending on Bring a Trailer until Thursday, January 26.
This 1995 Lexus SC400 up for auction at Bring a Trailer makes us think about what it takes for a work to be classified as fine art. Clearly Mona Lisa make a cut, and no one has seen A night full of stars would argue it doesn’t make the cut—but what about a V-8 sports coupe? Of course the elegant lines of the SC400, because the car has utility? Although its performance lags behind modern cars, the SC400’s great styling looks just as good today as it did when it launched in 1992. We’re not art critics here, but we do have strong opinions about car styling—and this 1995 SC400 has us considering the daily driver we are next.
The coupe for sale at BaT now comes in a dull beige option, but that’s not enough to cloud our thoughts on this car. It spent most of its life in Virginia, and was sold for $7400 on Bring a Trailer to the current owner in June, 2022. The 4.0 liter 1UZ-FE V8 was rated at 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque when new. The car has recorded just under 120,000 miles, and an oil change was done in preparation for the sale.
It is not just an observer; it was fun to drive, and had impressive performance for its time. All in the name of “sports coupe.” Almost any new car these days can produce better numbers, but a 6.7-second launch to 60 mph and a top speed of 145 mph is more than adequate performance for the daily driver. We recorded 0.86 g of lateral grip when we first tested the SC in 1991. The modern Hankook Ventus V2 tires, fitted in April 2022, will likely improve on the already impressive grip.
In terms of amenities, the cabin features heated and power-adjustable front seats upholstered in beige leather, while bird’s-eye maple wood trim highlights the dashboard and door panels. Automatic climate control, cruise control, power accessories and a Nakamichi trunk-mounted premium audio system with a 12-disc CD changer round out the equipment. Listing refers to paint defects, which can be seen up close. They might ruin this car’s shot at any future concours, but they don’t do much to detract from its overall beauty.
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