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Lexus SC 400 gains horsepower with new V8 lifted from LS 400
Bob Plunkett
Date Posted: 5/10/2005
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It became a game of power played out in fancy sports coupes driven hard and fast in cat-and-mouse chase sequence.
Two drivers, racing veterans schooled in the nuances of high-speed vehicle performance, pushed to maximum limits two new high-powered Lexus SC 400 sports coupes over undulating pavement draped across Texas hills around the Guadalupe River near Kerrville.
Overt purpose of my Texas romp was to feel the enhanced thrust and improved performance of these expressive coupes.
For 1996 editions, the SC 400 gained ten more points in horsepower and torque by way of a beefy 4-cam V8 introduced a year ago in the Lexus flagship LS 400 sedan.
With lightweight aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, that 4.0-liter V8 churns up to 260 hp now for the Lexus sports coupe, dropping its zero-to-60 mph performance time to 6.8 seconds and pulling the quarter-mile statistic down to 15.2 seconds.
Covert purpose for our mission was simply to enjoy the hair-raising thrills which come with speed on a corkscrew circuit when piloting a superb automobile.
And make no mistake: Even before it earned the new V8, Lexus SC 400 -- with hyperextended prow and curvaceous body, sophisticated mechanical systems and luxurious passenger compartment -- already rated a top slot when ranking the world's finest wheel sets.
First appearing in 1991 as a second model in the new Lexus line, the SC 400 flowed from concepts of California stylists at Toyota's design center in Newport Beach. A variation, the SC 300, soon followed with similar shape and equipment, save for its 3.0-liter in-line-6 engine which also shows up in the GS 300 sports sedan.
Progressive improvements came with last year's models, which included structural enhancements, revised grille and tail treatment, plus a few interior perks added.
This year, the only coupes in the Lexus line captured more conveniences and safety features which, like the V8 for SC 400, first appeared last year on the LS 400.
Both cars now carry a multi-functional keyless entry system which brings remote operation for locking and unlocking driver's door. A second remote button on the fob transmitter releases the trunk latch, while a third functions as panic button linked to a security alarm.
Three self-dimming electrochromic mirrors, standard on SC 400 and optional on SC 300, respond automatically when headlights appear from the rear to blind a driver.
For more convenience, the optional moonroof with power mechanism to tilt or slide, features one-touch operation.
Of course, as a premier personal luxury coupe, the SC 400 already stocked a stunning array of comfort and convenience items, beginning with the twin front bucket sport seats supported with 5-way power controls and upholstered in supple leather.
That amazing Lexus treatment for instrument panels shows up in coupes with electronic analog tachometer and other gauges displaying red LED needles on black faces, most legible in the industry.
Slip into this elegant automotive compartment, buckle up for safety, then engage the ignition and watch what happens: As the instrument cluster begins to glow with electronic illumination, the steering wheel tilts and telescopes into a pre-determined position held in memory, as mirrors and driver's seat follow in set patterns.
(If you don't like the settings, change them through power override, then store the new preferences in memory for your next entry.)
Before engaging the gears, note the absence of exterior noises, even including the sound of that big engine. Lexus has always scored at the highest level in measurements of sound and vibration control, and the SC 400 proves the point with its virtually silent interior.
Now, grasp the leather-capped shift lever, select one of two shift programs (normal or power), then slip into the driving gear and get ready to play in the fast lane.
Although the typical buyer for SC 400 seeks comfort and styling perks over severe handling attributes, this Lexus nevertheless will perform amazing tricks on pavement.
It's also quite fast.
On our Texas test over isolated straight stretches, we clicked quickly into triple-digit speeds and found that the coupe remained stable and responsive -- also extremely quiet. Top speed, limited electronically, comes at 149 mph, while the tachometer redlines at 6250 rpm.
Where the coupe impressed me most occurred not with the raw speed mustered but competence revealed when coping with snake-like twisties of a river road taken hard and fast with chaser coupe hot in pursuit.
The classic combination of longitudinally-mounted engine up front with a rear-wheel drivetrain creates an ideal balance in this car. Stir in a strong and stiff chassis, 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension system and rack and pinion steering governed electronically with variable speed-sensing progressive power, and what you end up with becomes almost magical.
Suspension elements include forged aluminum upper control arms fore and aft, with low-mount front upper arms, longitudinally mounted rear members, plus coil springs and nitrogen gas-filled shocks working in tandem with front and rear spherical tubular stabilizer bars.
Anti-dive and anti-squat geometry built into this system sets up a sporty ride quality that brings precise vehicle control yet still maintains a rather lush and smooth quality for anyone ensconced within.
In candor, I had not anticipated such sport-like action from a coupe pitched at the luxury set.
The new V8 becomes the other stellar attraction for this Lexus. Set with snappy shift points on the 4-speed automatic transmission, its output when translated through 16-inch tires and strong momentum feels downright lustful.
The SC 300, with in-line-6 rated at 225 hp, still provides excellent power but for considerably less dollars.
Safety features on both coupes include a 4-channel anti-lock brake system and traction control.
Options for the SC 400 have been restricted to premium audio and communications equipment, plus power moonroof and rear spoiler. The SC 300 adds to that list of choices leather upholstery, traction control and heated seats.
1996 LEXUS SC 400
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| Vehicle Specifications: |
| 1996 LEXUS SC400 Specs |
| Description: |
Mid-size sports coupe |
| Model Options: |
Mid-size sports coupe |
| Wheelbase: |
105.9 inches |
| Overall Length: |
191.1 inches
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| Engine Size: |
QOHC 4.0-L V8 32v
DOHC 3.0-L I6 24v
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| Transmission: |
Auto/4 |
| Drive: |
Rear |
| Braking: |
Power 4-disc/ABS |
| Airbags: |
2 |
| Gas Mileage: |
V8: 18/23 mpg |
| Price: |
SC 400: $ 52,400, SC 300: $ 43,400 |
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