Joining the ranks of just a few other hardtop convertibles, Lexus SC 430 makes a design statement for 2002. Unmistakably Lexus, the SC 430, with its coupe design, is quite a stretch from the original first-generation SC coupes. First of all, it’s Lexus’ foray into the land of the topless; transforming itself from a 2+2 coupe to a convertible in just 25 seconds. Year-round driving is one of the SC 430’s selling points.

Created by Lexus’ European design center, SC 430 offers the best of the best, from leather and wood interior appointments, to high level performance. A rear-drive configuration, the SC 430 convertible sports an all-aluminum 4.3-liter, V8 engine, producing 300 horsepower. A five-speed automatic transmission using Shift Logic Control is standard, taking the SC 430 from 0-60 in 5.9 seconds. This engine is the same V8 that powers the LS 430 sedan and the GS 430 performance sedan.

Our test SC 430 in Millennium Silver came equipped with only one option, the rear spoiler ($440). There aren’t many features missing; the standard equipment list is plentiful, including such highlights as 10-way power-adjustable driver/passenger front seats; 18-inch five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with 245/40ZR 18-inch tires; auto-dimming heated, power-adjustable exterior mirrors with reverse-gear tilt down; automatic climate control with lap vents; Bird’s eye maple or burled walnut wood interior trim; DVD Lexus Navigation system; foglamps, leather-trimmed interior; headlight washers; Mark Levinson audio system with cassette/6-disc CD changer; power tilt/telescope steering wheel; projector-type high-intensity discharge headlights; two-position memory system for seats, mirrors and steering wheel; water-repellent side door glass, etc.

One of the options available on the SC 430 are run-flat tires. A colleague drove an SC 430 so equipped and commented on the hard ride. In addition, with run-flats, there is no spare tire included. For those who aren’t worried, this is all right; for those who are? Well, there’s always 24-hour roadside assistance. The tires on our test vehicle (Z-rated) offered a ride somewhat smoother. Even so, with the run-flat tire, the car can be driven up to 100 miles at speeds up to 55 mph when punctured. Without the spare, Lexus claims one can store golf clubs in the trunk. Lexus has also added a trunk release handle inside the trunk.

A tire pressure warning system using coded sensors monitors tire air pressure on the SC 430. The tire pressure information is calculated and transmitted to a receiver by radio frequency. If a drop in pressure has occurred, a buzzer sounds. We experienced this phenomenon while driving the SC 430. At first, we couldn’t figure out what it was, nor could we figure out how to eliminate it. After reading the manual, and adding air to a tire, the buzzer stopped. Wa-lah.

At 3.280 pounds, the SC 430 is nimble, yet, aggressive. Fuel economy is better than might be expected from a V8 engine, 18 city/23 highway. Lexus’ warranty is one of the best, offering 4-yr./50,000-mile basic limited warranty, 6-yr./70,000-mile powertrain and restraint system coverage; 6-yr./unlimited mileage corrosion perforation protection.

The sound system in the SC 430 is a special treat while cruising the open road. Sound systems in Lexus’ past were nothing to sneeze at; the set up for ’02 is akin to sitting in a concert hall. Calling on Mark Levinson, Lexus stepped to the front of the line. Nine speakers are located inside the cabin. Equalization of the system is automatically adjusted when the roof is lowered, returning to original volume upon raising the top. Controls are located on the steering wheel for ease of operation.

The climate control system–clearly possessing a mind of its own–also adjusts. For instance, if you’re driving around, topless, in cooler weather, the system will direct warm air to your feet and lap. On hot days, cool air is circulated. The exterior temp is taken into control, and the system automatically adjusts for passenger comfort.

The ’02 SC 430 is equipped with all kinds of high tech safety features. Antilock brakes feature a four-sensor, four-channel system, including Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Traction Control, Skid Control and Brake Assist. Brake Assist is there to figure out whether the driver is trying to apply the emergency brake, and if the driver hasn’t stepped hard enough on the brake pedal to engage ABS. For winter and wet-weather driving, Vehicle Skid Control helps control side skids, and integrate traction control to limit rear wheel spin.

In all its innovation, the SC 430 is equipped with reinforced rocker panels to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Of course, there are dual front and front-seat mounted side impact airbags, daytime running lights, and HID headlights.

While driving the SC 430, we did make use of the trunk. Although the roof is tightly packed in, there is some room for goodies. One thing we noticed immediately was the absence of key cylinder locks on the luggage compartment and doors. Rather, both doors and trunk are opened by the key-integrated remote. The standard locks are present on the console and glove compartment, and the SC 430 has an immobilizer and alarm system. When locked and alarm set, the SC 430’s luggage release and fuel lid will not operate.

The rear wind deflector on the SC 430 isn’t terribly adequate. When compared to one other we experienced, the SC 430’s may need to be a tad taller. A great idea, when it really works. Two nice touches on the SC 430: illuminated scuff plates, with the Lexus logo, and a first-aid kit. Leave it to Lexus to add just a touch of class.

Retro, sleek, classy and luxurious, those are the adjectives that best describe this one-of-a-kind beauty. Lexus has done it again. But then, why should any of us be surprised? It’s auto excellence at its best. A combination of some of the best (including Porsche, Ford, etc.), the SC 430 is an eye-catcher. When test-driving it, we felt many a stare. It’s unique, different, and it stands out. This, of course, to this writer, is its best feature. Lexus expects half of the SC 430’s buyers to be women. It certainly appeals.