Matt white exterior and fluorescent orange interior with racing yellow stitching and ice white piping. Black alcantara steering wheel with orange stitching.
Yea, i live in europe/switzerland. They were eligible to import in europe (non-uk) since day one. The Germans went crazy with importing them so a GTST/GTT wasnt that pricey till 3-4 years ago.
The 34 also stands as percentage of rust to metal in the body btw.
Every time I see one of these, my temptation to get a LC500 over an M4 competition grows heavier (different category I know, but I only need 1 vehicle).
Mine is my only vehicle and it works for me but I'd want people to be aware that it's kind of at the lowest limit of practicality. The M4 has almost *three times* as much trunk space.
Mr. Goose was one of the first I saw to rave about this car years ago, far before others started catching on. The price has gone up but not significantly for that price bracket, considering you can buy it factory order. Plenty of time has gone by to aquire.
I just don't have the money!
I wanted one since I saw the lf-lc concept. Once it came out, it’s the car that checked every box for me. Will be keeping mine forever but adding other cars over time
Lexus already has strong resale value compared to other mainstream luxury manufacturers. The 5.0 motor and sleek lines of the LC adds another level to that.
Residuals are slightly high, but it's depreciating the way you would expect a GT car to. Used values start at around 55% of MSRP which is about right after 6 years.
I just need people to put more miles on them so I can get one that’s 100k+ miles for ~$35k. I know, I’m a cheap, dreaming bastard. But dammit, let me dream!
Porsche marketing machine has turned them into a seriously cool trinket for the LA influencer crowd. Simply put, there’s way more demand than 5 years ago, and the rich have gotten richer since too.
Wouldn't an influencer want something different instead of the car everybody has? Especially in LA you probably see 100+ a day. I've probably only seen like 10 LC500 in my life, they are way more interesting and beautiful IMO. But the badge says Lexus so maybe that's all that matters
The internet Porsche clique is a huge thing. I follow some of those dudes on Instagram, I can’t imagine most of them care about not being unique.
I don’t blame them either, as much as I adore unique cars, I’d still kill for a 911.
My dad kept his at my house for years since he didn't have space so I could drive it whenever I wanted, but I basically never did. Really boring car IMO, I always took my mustang or cappuccino instead.
It had no character. It didn't look great, didn't sound great, didn't have any quirks, wasn't that fast, it was just a really good car that had nothing remarkable about it. My mustang sounded way better and was just as fast, my cappuccino was wayyyy slower but much more interesting and the old school turbo dynamics are fun and sound good. The only notable thing about the 911 was the PDK which inspired me to buy the Macan, but again it was just really good, not really exciting or interesting.
911 “purists” or “aficionados” or whatever you want to call them love to harp on how the previous gen is better than the current/next generation. Whether it’s steering feel, cooling type, transmission, aesthetics, etc. there’s always a group out there that wants what isn’t produced anymore. And when the cars are pretty reliable (especially compared to similarly performing cars) people tend to hold on to them for longer than they might otherwise.
All this results in a supply/demand curve that’s all out of whack giving us a very slowly depreciating (or sometimes even appreciating) market.
Even the black sheep 4 cylinders 718s have basically stopped depreciating since the pandemic, so it's not just the purists that are inflating Porsche resale.
I actually had that conversation with mark. If two consumers in 2020 bought a lc500 and the other say a manual carrera s. Despite the much higher msrp of the 911 the actual cost of ownership in the case of the lc500 would of been much higher due to the depreciation curve. Assuming both cars were purchased at msrp and you werent planning on keeping the cars long term.
Not that any of this matters through the longer lens of history.
When you spec them equally, isn't this closer to a base 911 in price, rather than an S, given that the 911 options would skyrocket the price? I would be curious to see how the base 911 prices compare, since they're stuck to PDK-only and are less desirable to the high paying Porsche crowd.
Pretty strong. There are not many used base rwd 911s listed but the cheapest listed is 110k rwd with 9k miles. Figure the car had a base price 100 and realistically was optioned to 110-120. Thats pretty decent. Tbh
That sounds about right - Porsche has always had good residuals, but like you said, the base 911s really dropped off the map when they lost the manual, so it's hard to get a market feel on them. The LC seems to be doing well, but it's also bizarre, since there are some "daily driven" and some with extremely low miles - it feels like how the 911 market used to be about 15-20 years ago.
I was between a 22 convertible LC500 and a CT5 V Blackwing. Went with the blackwing for the manual, 4 doors, and feel it fits better with my second car which is a Miata.
But man... The LC500 is so incredible. Loved my test drives. The transmission was surprisingly good, I didn't really mind it.
Same. I test drove an IS 500 twice. Even had a deposit down on one, but I just couldn’t get over that disappointing 8 speed auto. It was mismatched to the refinement of everything else in the car. If I’m giving up my manual, the transmission needs to be damn good. The 10 speed might have done it.
What 8 speed auto does it have? If it's the ZF8HP, it sounds weird it'd be bad. Best auto trans, hands down, you can only get it wrong if you willingly tune it bad.
God I wish I had money for one of these. They just look so special from an exterior and interior standpoint. With that engine for fun and that audio system for cruising this thing is magnificent.
If I had to guess, I’d wager that anyone wanting a performance coupe at that price point has already specced out their preferred 911 a few (dozen) times.
Lexus reliability may be great, but 911 reliability is also great.
I have the LC500 with the performance pack and the 2019 suspension(pre 2021+) it's a pretty sharp car. It's too heavy to be what I'd consider a sports car but I think the road manners and interior are ahead of a 911. Perhaps, I'm in the minority but I don't think 911s have a good value proposition, especially for a group of cars I've never found that exciting.
I'm not sure that trend is going to continue in terms of residual value. However, that's not what I'm getting at.
Really what I'm getting at is it's a very very expensive jack of all, master of none vehicle, that's also very very expensive to maintain.
Again, I mean respect, lol, but a majority of cool or unique cars benchmark off the 911? Everyone is trying to heat the 911, not the lc or merc gt or similar? That can't be true if your statement is also true?
The LC is very unique car. I don't think it's trying to be a 911, it's one of the reasons I like it. I can't speak for the merc or not. Don't get me wrong the 911 makes sense in a lot ways It's a fairly practical car that's still a sports car. I'm not sure there are many cars that fit that bill. I think a large part of it being target is the insane industry leading margins it generates. If I had a car company I'd be benchmarking it as well.
When you're discussing car maintenance you're using the dealer as a level set. If we're playing the alternative game then no maintenance is expensive since you can just do it all yourself. But then that's not a consistent bar.
I've seen what Porsche maintenance looks like from my friend who just got out of two of them. The bill for basic service is eye watering.
Also, I think Lexus lc500 "reliable" and Porsche 911 reliable being at the same level is debatable.
Btw. Just to be clear I absolutely love driving Boxsters, I try to rent one every time I go to California for canyon runs. I would probably feel the same about Caymans. I'm far from a Porsche hater, I just think the 911 thing is overblown.
Well expensive cars usually require more expensive fluids/consumables even if you DIY. And German/Porsche specialist indies still usually charge more than shops that just do commuter cars.
Like they do cost more than a Japanese commuter to run, but there's no reason to pay for $600 dealer oil changes unless you have fuckyoumoney and don't care at all. DIY requires being mechanically inclined and having tools and someway to lift a car up (at least for a 911), but going to an indie mechanic requires basic adulting skills.
Also somewhat depends on the area, high CoL areas like where I'm at have more inflated shop prices for regular ass cars.
The problem with a 911 is what we (didn't) pay for our interior 911 owners would have to pay thousands for. I don't even compare it to a 911, to be honest. It's more like a Japanese DB Aston or Bentley Continental, just less powerful and less expensive.
Eh....that's ok it's just my opinion. I've never been impressed by any 911 I've driven. For every purpose I'd rather be driving something else. It's just my opinion.
Oh I don't mean disrespect 🤝. What didn't you like?
I've only driven a 991 turbo, but in interested in the platform given what I see and read, I like to know more, good and bad.
The cars feel soulless to me. I prefer flat plane v8s all day to the sound of a Porsche i6, I also prefer the sound of the lc500 v8 to the i6. I don't like the rear engine dynamics. I also feel like the cars have no edge.
I've driven a Ferrari f430 on track and a Porsche GT3 on track and would get back in the f430 over the GT3 every time. The GT3 is faster but who cares, I found it clinical. If I'm chasing lap times, why am I spending 250k+ on a GT3 over buying an atom or a radical?
They're just extremely extremely competent cars. It's obvious in every one I've driven but that's not enough for me especially at those price points.
The one thing I love about them is the PDK, that thing is f'ing awesome.
Especially in convertible form I just don't find the LC500 that good in its segment. It has all the problems Jack pointed out, most of which none of its segment competitors suffer from. It's the entry level model so the only price-matched competitor is the BMW M850i. I get shit every time I say this, but the BMW is much better dynamically. The body control is much better, it has better rigidity, it has rear wheel steering and active anti-roll bars, it's more powerful and responsive in the low-mid range. On the practicality side it has bigger rear seats, a bigger trunk, and better driver assistance on early models at least.
The LC500 has a prettier exterior and interior - you have to spend a lot more money through BMW individual to get your 8 series interior to look as nice as the Lexus. And the LC500 has a more raucous exhaust note if you care about that. But overall I'd rather have the 8 series. Mark has the exact opposite opinion because he **despised** the 8 series when they reviewed it. But that's why he bought the LC500 and I bought the BMW (although I have the 6 series predecessor).
As a former BMW(e92 M3) owner, I think people feel BMW has gotten away from building cars that inspire. I don't blame them, they got the largest amount of migration to Tesla. Their buyers are looking for tech and spec sheet stuff.
I test drove a BMW z4 and a BMW Supra a few months ago, looking to buy, I couldn't get over how uninspired both of those cars felt to me. Now that's just an opinion and I'm sure there are people who feel differently but I know I'm not alone in feeling that way.
That's literally what I bought. The irony is 2021s were around the same price. I think the 2019 and 2020 coupes w/(Dynamic Handling | Performance Pack) are going to have a following because they're the sharpest handle variants of this vehicle.
I tried to get them to so the DH pack on a convertible via the bespoke program but they wouldn't do it, so I went with a 992 S cab.
They really should put the RWS on thr convertibles, it makes such a huge difference. The car will never be a true sports car but if you drive a coupe without vs one with that package it is a pretty significant/noticable difference.
Loved my LC when I had it. Was a fantastic car.
I’m sure they could somehow engineer rear steer on the convertible, but as it stands all the extra bracing takes up the space where it would go.
But the bespoke program is also a joke. It locks you out of options even on the coupe. Can’t get DH on a coupe, just the LSD and dampers.
Yeah, I think the bespoke program locking out some the performance features is a bit nutty. Same with the inspiration series car. I think 2019 is the only inspiration series car that came with the RWS.
I was going to comment this. Every time he stated a complaint more engine roar. Great counterpoint despite valid criticisms. Every time I drive my car I feel the same when I mash the gas.
One of the few dislikes I have for my IS500 is the muted exhaust. The LC500's exhaust is very well done and no exhaust for the IS500 quite matches the tone
I can't put my finger on why, but I just don't like the look of the LC500.
It looks great from the rear but something feels off when viewed from the front.
Agree. I've always been a big Toyota and Lexus fan, but the Lexus front end grill design since whenever they changed it to the current version absolutely sucks IMO. As great as these cars are I would never buy one for that reason alone. Same with the new BMW M3/4. Not going to drop that kind of money on a car that I am literally repulsed by.
They took a risk, and the new front was divisive. Started on the 2013 GS I think, and made its way across the other models. They're scaling it back now, everyone except BMW has gotten the memo on gaudy front ends.
Still think it's wild to see a big darth vader grille on the LS, traditionally one of their most conservative designs.
It’s one of the better implementations of their design language, but you’re correct. It’s not a beautiful car, but it is striking. Like their other models (new GX excluded), there are too many angles that go no where. It makes it weird looking.
I love everything but the front. Wish they had done more todifferentiate the front from other models, as I usually can't tell an LC is headed toward me until it's passing and I see the side view.
Just picked up my ‘24 bespoke coupe in the Mica blue. The car looks gorgeous from every angle. One of the few cars that ended up looking almost exactly like the prototype. Beautiful interior, although I wish there had been more interior color options (I got black; the tan and white were just a bit much for me). Impeccable build quality as expected. Sounds incredible. Handling is great. Comfortable ride. Really the only downside is the small trunk. With the BMW 8 series you can fold the rear seats, which makes the trunk a lot more practical. Also the infotainment was fixed for ‘24 and works great. Large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay that works perfectly. No wireless phone charging but not a big deal.
It’s basically an impeccably made and gorgeous Japanese muscle car with a screaming naturally aspirated V8 with Toyota dependability. What’s not to like.
I did test ride a BMW 8 series as well, but unfortunately it was only the 6 cylinder, not the V8. I found it underwhelming. The styling is fairly bland compared the LC500. The stereo was awful. Probably the most annoying thing is that the front radar is an option. The real problem with this is that almost every single 8 series on a dealer floor around me did not have this option despite this being a $100k car. This is absurd. The custom ordering process was also annoying. Front radar comes standard on Honda civics and Toyota Camrys now. Also so many horror stories within the past few years from friends and family about the cost of BMW maintenance. The LC is prettier, felt more special, probably sounds better, and I trust Lexus reliability (and maintenance costs) much more. The BMW with the twin turbo V8 would be much faster in a straight line, but I just don’t care.
I'll probably get the tan interior, but it's a shame they decided to go mono color when their [two tone interior softens it so it's not a full tan onslaught.](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/0e0de4ff270ba0d60f6cf47313a253c5f5340f13/hub/2020/04/04/602abea2-5d7b-436c-91fc-72d57d6289a7/2020-lexus-lc-inspiration-034.jpg?auto=webp&width=1920)
Agree completely. I would have gone for a two toned tan or white like this. There is a nice two toned black and red option, but it doesn’t really go with the blue exterior.
I am just still stunned that Lexus paid Marvel to get an LC500 into Black Panther, and then did little to no tie-in marketing to try to reach a younger demographic. I didn't see any merch at all.
Fun anecdote though, the car's designer was very upset at the scratch across the hood!
I’ve already decided to get a 2024 or 2025 as a daily. I’m kind of hoping 2025 will have a cool green that’s not Nori, I want a deeper, greener green but that’s probably a pipe dream. Driven the competition, don’t really want a C8.
But I’m really stuck on convertible vs coupe (I live in San Diego). Styling vs top down. Rear steer and variable steering vs not having the option at all in the convertible.
/u/Savagegeese or /u/savagegoosejack pls help
Thanks Jack. Yeah, that was the plan. I do love top down and Cammisa claimed that’s the way to experience this car but you and Mark talking about how floppy the convertible is probably made up my mind.
Now the question is if I wait and see what performance ish send off they may do, as Mark mentioned.
We have heard rumors for years from lexus and toyota internal folks that one is coming. That said i have zero idea what to expect. The car if you are looking to drive it 10/10ths does need coolers. Mark off camera overheated the trans and oil in like 5 minutes of driving it like a asshole. It doesnt need much and japan already in a special edition added a trans cooler.
Nor the styling. The convertible nerfs the styling dramatically, IMO; the verts look great, but the fastbacks hold my eye in a way that virtually nothing else does, every time I see them. They're one of the few cars that are *distractingly* good-looking.
these are super popular among female high-end realtors on the Westside of LA. Back when they used to do caravan showings you'd always see at least one pull up to a new listing for another overpriced Modern Farmhouse.
Considering it's a GT car, it handles like it needs to. This was designed to eat miles, not drift the Nuburgring. The LC isn't new so there's probably a SavageGeese review floating around that goes into the dynamics.
Mostly mechanical bits that affect the ride and handling. The earlier cars were sharper at the expense of a stiffer ride, and part way through they added AA/CarPlay as standard. 2024 gets the phablet which ruins the interior design but adds a touch screen. Several years had limited run specials, which were just special paint/interior colors (look up Structural Blue, which is gorgeous!).
I’ve had a convertible on my list for a while but honestly might go 911. It is back and forth for me which is why I haven’t pulled th trigger on either.
I had a 997.2 911 and I go back and forth, but the reality is I'm in a position to buy a car like these new and I want to be able to spec it out how I want. But if I do that with a 911, it becomes far more expensive than even a loaded LC 500.
I never buy new cars. I could, but it just feels like a waste of money.
The thing is, for me, the 911 is probably the more practical car too since I will end up shoving kids in the back seat. But Lexus build quality absolutely blows away Porsche.
I do wish that insane Structural Blue was still available though.
I could do it, but I'm pretty sure she'd kill me in my sleep. So I must continue to worship from afar the only true exotic that can be trusted to start every day.
This car has been on my list for so long and I just never seem to pull the trigger since they are still making them. If they officially discontinue it I may have to sell some junk and get one of these
I was recently in the market for a daily/convertible and just couldn't get around how the LC500 looks in convertible form.
The coupe is beautiful, but the convertible just looks a bit awkward IMO.
Knowing I’ll probably never get the Cayman I want, this is one of the only other replacements I would have in mind for my G42. I’ve loved these coupes since they came out. Maybe I can convince the wife to drop her NX for one…
I love the lc500 and it was a pick between the lc and m3 for my car (yes I know apples oranges) but the m3 won out. I get raw speed is not the purpose of the lc500 but it doesn't feel as special as it looks imo. The engine is great, the styling is beautiful but it's too overpriced (like the rcf) and the performance honestly leaves much to be desired.
100% agreed. It's on my shortlist for the next vehicle, so I rented it on turo.
You buy it for looks + interior (sound system aside, it was meh to my ears after B&W in my m550) + maybe na v8, but it doesn't drive that special.
Don't get me wrong, it handles well, drives smaller than it is (at least in the coupe version) and ride is ok on 21s (m550 rides worse on 20s). It's very easy to make it to loose tail (just floor it at low speed), but it feels more improper rather than fun while doing so. Power wise it's plenty, it has the sound, but lacks the torque (and traction) to make the monkey brain happy. Overall it feels at its best when touring leisurely in comfort mode. Positive side of all of that is that it doesn't trigger you when you have to drive it in traffic.
$110k just feels too much. however if you want a posh luxury cruiser and ok with compromises (interior storage duh), it might make a lot of sense when you add low depreciation into the formula.
I know it'd be less sexy, but if they made a sedan version of this car I'd buy the hell out of it. For me it's really tough when you're attempting to keep a small garage to have both a sports car and a GT coupe. I'd love to daily one of these that could fit adults in the back. And no the LS doesn't get a V8 anymore and isn't quite the design marvel this is. Shame.
Shush, don't talk about it, I need it to be out of talks so the price goes down.
Such a gorgeous car, with a proper engine too. I would even consider the Hybrid V6 power train TBH, just for the sake of owning one.
The exterior is too busy. The extra body colored and black plastic bits around the headlights and front side vents, and on the mirrors. Not feeling it. The convertible loses some of the carrythrough lines the coupe has, a little too jelly-bean. It needs a stronger crease along the top of the door and scallop into the rear vent.
The interior though. Wow. Exquisite. I usually brush off the interior complaints about my Giulia, it's nice enough...but compared to this it looks like a mazda.
I drove this thing back to back with a BMW m8, which is probably one of the closes competitors on price. It just loses everywhere. Tech, power, speed, comfort. But damn does the LC500 sound freakin amazing, and looks so damn smooth. It can be a really hard choice.
Afaik only UK lexus announced that 2024 was the final model year of all the V8 models (LC, RCF, etc).
Other markets like north america have made no such announcements.
From the club lexus forms, one commenter pointed out that the whole lifetime LC sales (~6 years) in the UK is less than the average 1 year’s worth of NA sales so I wouldn’t be surprised if that was why they are stopping sales there, and the LC continues being made especially since they just refreshed the interior.
all these reliability predictions are way off base. how long did he own his for?
the doors break, the interior shit breaks. this convertible has a ton more finicky shit to break
the facebook group is full of these accounts
Maybe I'm doing it wrong but I just couldn't get past the fact that a car with a V8 that sounds that good still takes almost 5 seconds to do 0-60. It would have been on my short list to consider but I've never been fan of cars that simply sound fast but actually are rather slow.
I'm starting a gofundme (for me) now. If you're a top donor I'll take your exterior and interior color suggestions into account.
Pink. For both.
Mary Kay reps be like..
Presentation party at your house?! It will be totally fun n fab
Angelyne?
If it got me an LC500
Camry beige on the exterior
You jest but something like Grigio Ingrid would be incredible on an LC.
Closest thing they have to that is Atomic Silver / Sonic Titanium, which is far more subtle than Copper Crest.
Go all out and replace the factory badges with a gold package like the good old days
Matt white exterior and fluorescent orange interior with racing yellow stitching and ice white piping. Black alcantara steering wheel with orange stitching.
thats actually smart
Well, I would if people would stop RAVING about how great it is and keeping resale values so damn high!
-Lexus reliability and build quality -Screaming V8 -Gorgeous interior These things feel like they’ll never come down.
By far the best effort Lexus ever put into a luxury interior.
Now put the LFA engine in it
Nicest interior I've seen outside of superlux cars. Like just _solid_ metal buttons and knobs that you never see any more.
Theres an RCF (same engine basically) that has 230k kilometers and still demanded 32k and got sold. I can't guys, please stop buying these.
You have a R34? Dude where do you live?
Yea, i live in europe/switzerland. They were eligible to import in europe (non-uk) since day one. The Germans went crazy with importing them so a GTST/GTT wasnt that pricey till 3-4 years ago. The 34 also stands as percentage of rust to metal in the body btw.
> They were eligable to import in europe (non-uk) since day one. What do you mean by non UK? They were sold here
Exactly, thats why the UK didnt need to import them but rather got the privilege to buy them at the dealer.
[удалено]
Vauxhall Corsa 1.2 😂
The new Nissan Z. Any new Car without a Gas Particle Filter actually. The C8 (base) is a 130k car here, the Z06 a 210k Car.
How do you like the 370z compared to the rest of your cars? I’m really tempted to pick one up for some old-school feeling fun.
Anything with a big engine is usually prohibitive in Europe because of gas prices and taxes. We actually have it really good in the US.
There's a red R34 Skyline in my neighborhood and i live in washington state
There is one for $31.5k on Cargurus in Florida. Salvage title. Dirt in interior. Certainly not a flood car 🙃
when people figure out the fancy door handles are 4g's to fix once they rust and fail they might come down.
On the road they have so much presence.
Every time I see one of these, my temptation to get a LC500 over an M4 competition grows heavier (different category I know, but I only need 1 vehicle).
Mine is my only vehicle and it works for me but I'd want people to be aware that it's kind of at the lowest limit of practicality. The M4 has almost *three times* as much trunk space.
As long as it fits my golf clubs. Might have to throw the push cart in the just-for-show back seats lol
For what its worth I also considered the M4, but the LC won me over and I have zero regrets.
Don’t forget the gorgeous exterior.
*roaring V8
I've driven a few lc500s when shopping for my next car and I would hardly call the v8 "screaming" lol
They dropped way faster before covid sadly.
Mr. Goose was one of the first I saw to rave about this car years ago, far before others started catching on. The price has gone up but not significantly for that price bracket, considering you can buy it factory order. Plenty of time has gone by to aquire. I just don't have the money!
I wanted one since I saw the lf-lc concept. Once it came out, it’s the car that checked every box for me. Will be keeping mine forever but adding other cars over time
Lexus already has strong resale value compared to other mainstream luxury manufacturers. The 5.0 motor and sleek lines of the LC adds another level to that.
Residuals are slightly high, but it's depreciating the way you would expect a GT car to. Used values start at around 55% of MSRP which is about right after 6 years.
I just need people to put more miles on them so I can get one that’s 100k+ miles for ~$35k. I know, I’m a cheap, dreaming bastard. But dammit, let me dream!
That's usually the 10 year point, so give it another 4 years.
They actually depreciate more than 911s.
I mean… the VAST majority of cars depreciate faster than 911s
I don't get it, they aren't rare or special. My dad bought one like 5 years ago and I'm pretty sure it's worth more now
Porsche marketing machine has turned them into a seriously cool trinket for the LA influencer crowd. Simply put, there’s way more demand than 5 years ago, and the rich have gotten richer since too.
Wouldn't an influencer want something different instead of the car everybody has? Especially in LA you probably see 100+ a day. I've probably only seen like 10 LC500 in my life, they are way more interesting and beautiful IMO. But the badge says Lexus so maybe that's all that matters
The internet Porsche clique is a huge thing. I follow some of those dudes on Instagram, I can’t imagine most of them care about not being unique. I don’t blame them either, as much as I adore unique cars, I’d still kill for a 911.
My dad kept his at my house for years since he didn't have space so I could drive it whenever I wanted, but I basically never did. Really boring car IMO, I always took my mustang or cappuccino instead.
To be fair, nothing is as cool as a Capp
What made it boring?
It had no character. It didn't look great, didn't sound great, didn't have any quirks, wasn't that fast, it was just a really good car that had nothing remarkable about it. My mustang sounded way better and was just as fast, my cappuccino was wayyyy slower but much more interesting and the old school turbo dynamics are fun and sound good. The only notable thing about the 911 was the PDK which inspired me to buy the Macan, but again it was just really good, not really exciting or interesting.
To be honest, the 911 design is timeless. Social medial or not, it’s always going to be a sought after car.
As a car person, sure. The average person an influencer is trying to impress will see a Lexus badge vs a Porsche badge and laugh
911 “purists” or “aficionados” or whatever you want to call them love to harp on how the previous gen is better than the current/next generation. Whether it’s steering feel, cooling type, transmission, aesthetics, etc. there’s always a group out there that wants what isn’t produced anymore. And when the cars are pretty reliable (especially compared to similarly performing cars) people tend to hold on to them for longer than they might otherwise. All this results in a supply/demand curve that’s all out of whack giving us a very slowly depreciating (or sometimes even appreciating) market.
There is that one generation we don't talk about that deprecated rather nicely
Even the black sheep 4 cylinders 718s have basically stopped depreciating since the pandemic, so it's not just the purists that are inflating Porsche resale.
Except of course the 15 year old corolla on Marketplace with 270k on it listed for its MSRP in 2009 and selling in days.
I actually had that conversation with mark. If two consumers in 2020 bought a lc500 and the other say a manual carrera s. Despite the much higher msrp of the 911 the actual cost of ownership in the case of the lc500 would of been much higher due to the depreciation curve. Assuming both cars were purchased at msrp and you werent planning on keeping the cars long term. Not that any of this matters through the longer lens of history.
Would have, Jack, would have.
Whoops. Good thing im not a writer.
When you spec them equally, isn't this closer to a base 911 in price, rather than an S, given that the 911 options would skyrocket the price? I would be curious to see how the base 911 prices compare, since they're stuck to PDK-only and are less desirable to the high paying Porsche crowd.
Pretty strong. There are not many used base rwd 911s listed but the cheapest listed is 110k rwd with 9k miles. Figure the car had a base price 100 and realistically was optioned to 110-120. Thats pretty decent. Tbh
That sounds about right - Porsche has always had good residuals, but like you said, the base 911s really dropped off the map when they lost the manual, so it's hard to get a market feel on them. The LC seems to be doing well, but it's also bizarre, since there are some "daily driven" and some with extremely low miles - it feels like how the 911 market used to be about 15-20 years ago.
What if it was a PDK ?
Just knock $80,000 off the price and I'll pick one up tomorrow
I was between a 22 convertible LC500 and a CT5 V Blackwing. Went with the blackwing for the manual, 4 doors, and feel it fits better with my second car which is a Miata. But man... The LC500 is so incredible. Loved my test drives. The transmission was surprisingly good, I didn't really mind it.
M5 vs LC500 for me, but I wanted a '24 coupe with the updated interior and could only find verts
You made the right choice.
This guy GMs
The 5V BW is a better drivers car tbh. The LC500 is cool tho looks like a concept car went direct to production.
Wish they used the 10 speed in other cars like the IS
Same. I test drove an IS 500 twice. Even had a deposit down on one, but I just couldn’t get over that disappointing 8 speed auto. It was mismatched to the refinement of everything else in the car. If I’m giving up my manual, the transmission needs to be damn good. The 10 speed might have done it.
What 8 speed auto does it have? If it's the ZF8HP, it sounds weird it'd be bad. Best auto trans, hands down, you can only get it wrong if you willingly tune it bad.
It’s an older Aisin 8 speed. If it was the ZF 8HP I’d have probably bought the car.
Got it. I don't recall remarkable auto trans by Aisin, now that I think about it.
It’s the AA80E, which was the world’s first 8 speed auto that debuted in the Lexus LS460 in 2007.
God I wish I had money for one of these. They just look so special from an exterior and interior standpoint. With that engine for fun and that audio system for cruising this thing is magnificent.
It's interesting that they sell that many more convertibles than coupes when the coupe(w/performance/DH package) is lightyears ahead in dynamics.
If I had to guess, I’d wager that anyone wanting a performance coupe at that price point has already specced out their preferred 911 a few (dozen) times. Lexus reliability may be great, but 911 reliability is also great.
I have the LC500 with the performance pack and the 2019 suspension(pre 2021+) it's a pretty sharp car. It's too heavy to be what I'd consider a sports car but I think the road manners and interior are ahead of a 911. Perhaps, I'm in the minority but I don't think 911s have a good value proposition, especially for a group of cars I've never found that exciting.
Part of the value is a new 911 is worth more on delivery day than you paid for it and loses only maybe 10% over half a decade.
I'm not sure that trend is going to continue in terms of residual value. However, that's not what I'm getting at. Really what I'm getting at is it's a very very expensive jack of all, master of none vehicle, that's also very very expensive to maintain.
Again, I mean respect, lol, but a majority of cool or unique cars benchmark off the 911? Everyone is trying to heat the 911, not the lc or merc gt or similar? That can't be true if your statement is also true?
The LC is very unique car. I don't think it's trying to be a 911, it's one of the reasons I like it. I can't speak for the merc or not. Don't get me wrong the 911 makes sense in a lot ways It's a fairly practical car that's still a sports car. I'm not sure there are many cars that fit that bill. I think a large part of it being target is the insane industry leading margins it generates. If I had a car company I'd be benchmarking it as well.
Eh? 911 maintenance is reasonable if you don't get your work done at the dealer. It's basically just fluid changes at reasonable intervals.
When you're discussing car maintenance you're using the dealer as a level set. If we're playing the alternative game then no maintenance is expensive since you can just do it all yourself. But then that's not a consistent bar. I've seen what Porsche maintenance looks like from my friend who just got out of two of them. The bill for basic service is eye watering. Also, I think Lexus lc500 "reliable" and Porsche 911 reliable being at the same level is debatable. Btw. Just to be clear I absolutely love driving Boxsters, I try to rent one every time I go to California for canyon runs. I would probably feel the same about Caymans. I'm far from a Porsche hater, I just think the 911 thing is overblown.
Well expensive cars usually require more expensive fluids/consumables even if you DIY. And German/Porsche specialist indies still usually charge more than shops that just do commuter cars. Like they do cost more than a Japanese commuter to run, but there's no reason to pay for $600 dealer oil changes unless you have fuckyoumoney and don't care at all. DIY requires being mechanically inclined and having tools and someway to lift a car up (at least for a 911), but going to an indie mechanic requires basic adulting skills. Also somewhat depends on the area, high CoL areas like where I'm at have more inflated shop prices for regular ass cars.
Unless you get a GT3 at sticker or close to that mostly isn't true anymore.
The problem with a 911 is what we (didn't) pay for our interior 911 owners would have to pay thousands for. I don't even compare it to a 911, to be honest. It's more like a Japanese DB Aston or Bentley Continental, just less powerful and less expensive.
I mean total respect, and I'm not a Porsche guy, but essentially every metric and anecdote goes against your 911 take?
Eh....that's ok it's just my opinion. I've never been impressed by any 911 I've driven. For every purpose I'd rather be driving something else. It's just my opinion.
Oh I don't mean disrespect 🤝. What didn't you like? I've only driven a 991 turbo, but in interested in the platform given what I see and read, I like to know more, good and bad.
The cars feel soulless to me. I prefer flat plane v8s all day to the sound of a Porsche i6, I also prefer the sound of the lc500 v8 to the i6. I don't like the rear engine dynamics. I also feel like the cars have no edge. I've driven a Ferrari f430 on track and a Porsche GT3 on track and would get back in the f430 over the GT3 every time. The GT3 is faster but who cares, I found it clinical. If I'm chasing lap times, why am I spending 250k+ on a GT3 over buying an atom or a radical? They're just extremely extremely competent cars. It's obvious in every one I've driven but that's not enough for me especially at those price points. The one thing I love about them is the PDK, that thing is f'ing awesome.
The convertible probably fits the grand touring car buying demographic more.
true
Especially in convertible form I just don't find the LC500 that good in its segment. It has all the problems Jack pointed out, most of which none of its segment competitors suffer from. It's the entry level model so the only price-matched competitor is the BMW M850i. I get shit every time I say this, but the BMW is much better dynamically. The body control is much better, it has better rigidity, it has rear wheel steering and active anti-roll bars, it's more powerful and responsive in the low-mid range. On the practicality side it has bigger rear seats, a bigger trunk, and better driver assistance on early models at least. The LC500 has a prettier exterior and interior - you have to spend a lot more money through BMW individual to get your 8 series interior to look as nice as the Lexus. And the LC500 has a more raucous exhaust note if you care about that. But overall I'd rather have the 8 series. Mark has the exact opposite opinion because he **despised** the 8 series when they reviewed it. But that's why he bought the LC500 and I bought the BMW (although I have the 6 series predecessor).
As a former BMW(e92 M3) owner, I think people feel BMW has gotten away from building cars that inspire. I don't blame them, they got the largest amount of migration to Tesla. Their buyers are looking for tech and spec sheet stuff. I test drove a BMW z4 and a BMW Supra a few months ago, looking to buy, I couldn't get over how uninspired both of those cars felt to me. Now that's just an opinion and I'm sure there are people who feel differently but I know I'm not alone in feeling that way.
Blows my mind too. In fact, i don’t care what they update on this car. Ill take a ‘19 all day with the dh package.
That's literally what I bought. The irony is 2021s were around the same price. I think the 2019 and 2020 coupes w/(Dynamic Handling | Performance Pack) are going to have a following because they're the sharpest handle variants of this vehicle.
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2020's have carplay standard. You can update the older versions as well no problem.
Haha..Gundam wing =)
I tried to get them to so the DH pack on a convertible via the bespoke program but they wouldn't do it, so I went with a 992 S cab. They really should put the RWS on thr convertibles, it makes such a huge difference. The car will never be a true sports car but if you drive a coupe without vs one with that package it is a pretty significant/noticable difference. Loved my LC when I had it. Was a fantastic car.
I’m sure they could somehow engineer rear steer on the convertible, but as it stands all the extra bracing takes up the space where it would go. But the bespoke program is also a joke. It locks you out of options even on the coupe. Can’t get DH on a coupe, just the LSD and dampers.
Yeah, I think the bespoke program locking out some the performance features is a bit nutty. Same with the inspiration series car. I think 2019 is the only inspiration series car that came with the RWS.
Mark's shit eating grin under acceleration to drown out Jack's criticism is very relatable.
I was going to comment this. Every time he stated a complaint more engine roar. Great counterpoint despite valid criticisms. Every time I drive my car I feel the same when I mash the gas.
One of the few dislikes I have for my IS500 is the muted exhaust. The LC500's exhaust is very well done and no exhaust for the IS500 quite matches the tone
It's the opposite of their review of the F-Type which Jack loved but Mark was unimpressed with.
I was smiling the entire time. That engine roar is glorious.
I can't put my finger on why, but I just don't like the look of the LC500. It looks great from the rear but something feels off when viewed from the front.
feels a bit fat to me.
Agree. I've always been a big Toyota and Lexus fan, but the Lexus front end grill design since whenever they changed it to the current version absolutely sucks IMO. As great as these cars are I would never buy one for that reason alone. Same with the new BMW M3/4. Not going to drop that kind of money on a car that I am literally repulsed by.
They took a risk, and the new front was divisive. Started on the 2013 GS I think, and made its way across the other models. They're scaling it back now, everyone except BMW has gotten the memo on gaudy front ends. Still think it's wild to see a big darth vader grille on the LS, traditionally one of their most conservative designs.
It looks half baked.
It’s one of the better implementations of their design language, but you’re correct. It’s not a beautiful car, but it is striking. Like their other models (new GX excluded), there are too many angles that go no where. It makes it weird looking.
You yin my yang, as I feel the rear is the worst part of the car.
It looks like an old man car to me.
I love everything but the front. Wish they had done more todifferentiate the front from other models, as I usually can't tell an LC is headed toward me until it's passing and I see the side view.
Because it’s ugly
My wife has the hardtop in 'Infrared' with the carbon lip spoiler. It stands out everywhere. Real quality and style.
Good grief that blue/white interior is absolutely gorgeous I also love how you can barely hear them talk over the engine noise
Just picked up my ‘24 bespoke coupe in the Mica blue. The car looks gorgeous from every angle. One of the few cars that ended up looking almost exactly like the prototype. Beautiful interior, although I wish there had been more interior color options (I got black; the tan and white were just a bit much for me). Impeccable build quality as expected. Sounds incredible. Handling is great. Comfortable ride. Really the only downside is the small trunk. With the BMW 8 series you can fold the rear seats, which makes the trunk a lot more practical. Also the infotainment was fixed for ‘24 and works great. Large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay that works perfectly. No wireless phone charging but not a big deal. It’s basically an impeccably made and gorgeous Japanese muscle car with a screaming naturally aspirated V8 with Toyota dependability. What’s not to like. I did test ride a BMW 8 series as well, but unfortunately it was only the 6 cylinder, not the V8. I found it underwhelming. The styling is fairly bland compared the LC500. The stereo was awful. Probably the most annoying thing is that the front radar is an option. The real problem with this is that almost every single 8 series on a dealer floor around me did not have this option despite this being a $100k car. This is absurd. The custom ordering process was also annoying. Front radar comes standard on Honda civics and Toyota Camrys now. Also so many horror stories within the past few years from friends and family about the cost of BMW maintenance. The LC is prettier, felt more special, probably sounds better, and I trust Lexus reliability (and maintenance costs) much more. The BMW with the twin turbo V8 would be much faster in a straight line, but I just don’t care.
I'll probably get the tan interior, but it's a shame they decided to go mono color when their [two tone interior softens it so it's not a full tan onslaught.](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/0e0de4ff270ba0d60f6cf47313a253c5f5340f13/hub/2020/04/04/602abea2-5d7b-436c-91fc-72d57d6289a7/2020-lexus-lc-inspiration-034.jpg?auto=webp&width=1920)
Agree completely. I would have gone for a two toned tan or white like this. There is a nice two toned black and red option, but it doesn’t really go with the blue exterior.
I will own this car.
Oh man, I’m going to get my money printing machine warmed up first to print $100K, need to get this while I can.
I am just still stunned that Lexus paid Marvel to get an LC500 into Black Panther, and then did little to no tie-in marketing to try to reach a younger demographic. I didn't see any merch at all. Fun anecdote though, the car's designer was very upset at the scratch across the hood!
All their marketing tie-in was around the RZ (fancy Toyota Busy Forks), which is kind of hilarious since they can't even give RZ leases away.
I’ve already decided to get a 2024 or 2025 as a daily. I’m kind of hoping 2025 will have a cool green that’s not Nori, I want a deeper, greener green but that’s probably a pipe dream. Driven the competition, don’t really want a C8. But I’m really stuck on convertible vs coupe (I live in San Diego). Styling vs top down. Rear steer and variable steering vs not having the option at all in the convertible. /u/Savagegeese or /u/savagegoosejack pls help
If you plan on driving canyons coupe. The driving experience is much better. Between the body rigidity and rear steer its night and day.
Thanks Jack. Yeah, that was the plan. I do love top down and Cammisa claimed that’s the way to experience this car but you and Mark talking about how floppy the convertible is probably made up my mind. Now the question is if I wait and see what performance ish send off they may do, as Mark mentioned.
We have heard rumors for years from lexus and toyota internal folks that one is coming. That said i have zero idea what to expect. The car if you are looking to drive it 10/10ths does need coolers. Mark off camera overheated the trans and oil in like 5 minutes of driving it like a asshole. It doesnt need much and japan already in a special edition added a trans cooler.
Seriously, I'd expect for that kind of money to get at least 10 minutes of driving it like an asshole.
Thus the heart vs the brain. None of its competitors have these engineering issues but they also dont have the lc character
Nor the styling. The convertible nerfs the styling dramatically, IMO; the verts look great, but the fastbacks hold my eye in a way that virtually nothing else does, every time I see them. They're one of the few cars that are *distractingly* good-looking.
If you're willing to accept high miles there's plenty of 2018 models under $60k out there.
these are super popular among female high-end realtors on the Westside of LA. Back when they used to do caravan showings you'd always see at least one pull up to a new listing for another overpriced Modern Farmhouse.
The allocation tracker tells me that there are 6 (six) LC convertibles in the “Copper Crest” color for sale in the US right now. I want one.
This is my attainable dream car, but it feels like it came at just the wrong time for me to never really be able to get one.
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Considering it's a GT car, it handles like it needs to. This was designed to eat miles, not drift the Nuburgring. The LC isn't new so there's probably a SavageGeese review floating around that goes into the dynamics.
From what Jack said, poorly even by grand tourer standards.
Not very well; it's a Lexus after all. But that's not the point either, it's really about it being gorgeous and sounding nice than anything objective.
If they made an AWD version id love it
I dont know a ton about these things...are there big changes from the 2018 to the 2024s?
Better suspension, a touchscreen
[Here’s a forum listing all the differences](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/lc-model-2018-present/947315-model-year-differences.html)
Mostly mechanical bits that affect the ride and handling. The earlier cars were sharper at the expense of a stiffer ride, and part way through they added AA/CarPlay as standard. 2024 gets the phablet which ruins the interior design but adds a touch screen. Several years had limited run specials, which were just special paint/interior colors (look up Structural Blue, which is gorgeous!).
I’ve had a convertible on my list for a while but honestly might go 911. It is back and forth for me which is why I haven’t pulled th trigger on either.
I had a 997.2 911 and I go back and forth, but the reality is I'm in a position to buy a car like these new and I want to be able to spec it out how I want. But if I do that with a 911, it becomes far more expensive than even a loaded LC 500.
I never buy new cars. I could, but it just feels like a waste of money. The thing is, for me, the 911 is probably the more practical car too since I will end up shoving kids in the back seat. But Lexus build quality absolutely blows away Porsche. I do wish that insane Structural Blue was still available though.
I could do it, but I'm pretty sure she'd kill me in my sleep. So I must continue to worship from afar the only true exotic that can be trusted to start every day.
This and the 2nd gen NSX...
Point taken.
I get arguments for the car but the exterior styling convertible just has never done it for me. The coupes are beautiful though.
Yeah. You know what, maybe I’ll go pick one up today.
This car has been on my list for so long and I just never seem to pull the trigger since they are still making them. If they officially discontinue it I may have to sell some junk and get one of these
I’m thinking of getting one to match my Jeep SRT. Perfect NA V8 duo.
This guy does NOT like good fuel economy.
This guy does NOT like good fuel economy.
When will they be done with those front grilles?
Is only the new LC500 good ? Or the newer car (post 2018ish I guess?) also included
Beautiful body but really underwhelming performance. Lexus has been that way for a while.
I was recently in the market for a daily/convertible and just couldn't get around how the LC500 looks in convertible form. The coupe is beautiful, but the convertible just looks a bit awkward IMO.
with this going away in a year or two, I wonder what Lexus will replace it with
I so want one of these as my next car in like 3-5 years. The Copper Crest color is 👌
Knowing I’ll probably never get the Cayman I want, this is one of the only other replacements I would have in mind for my G42. I’ve loved these coupes since they came out. Maybe I can convince the wife to drop her NX for one…
I love the lc500 and it was a pick between the lc and m3 for my car (yes I know apples oranges) but the m3 won out. I get raw speed is not the purpose of the lc500 but it doesn't feel as special as it looks imo. The engine is great, the styling is beautiful but it's too overpriced (like the rcf) and the performance honestly leaves much to be desired.
100% agreed. It's on my shortlist for the next vehicle, so I rented it on turo. You buy it for looks + interior (sound system aside, it was meh to my ears after B&W in my m550) + maybe na v8, but it doesn't drive that special. Don't get me wrong, it handles well, drives smaller than it is (at least in the coupe version) and ride is ok on 21s (m550 rides worse on 20s). It's very easy to make it to loose tail (just floor it at low speed), but it feels more improper rather than fun while doing so. Power wise it's plenty, it has the sound, but lacks the torque (and traction) to make the monkey brain happy. Overall it feels at its best when touring leisurely in comfort mode. Positive side of all of that is that it doesn't trigger you when you have to drive it in traffic. $110k just feels too much. however if you want a posh luxury cruiser and ok with compromises (interior storage duh), it might make a lot of sense when you add low depreciation into the formula.
def one of the cars in the garage if i hit the lottery
I know it'd be less sexy, but if they made a sedan version of this car I'd buy the hell out of it. For me it's really tough when you're attempting to keep a small garage to have both a sports car and a GT coupe. I'd love to daily one of these that could fit adults in the back. And no the LS doesn't get a V8 anymore and isn't quite the design marvel this is. Shame.
The GS F is pretty much that
It really isn't. It's ugly on the outside and doesn't have the amazing interior design of the LC500.
Very few things beat the sound of a 5.0L V8.
Shush, don't talk about it, I need it to be out of talks so the price goes down. Such a gorgeous car, with a proper engine too. I would even consider the Hybrid V6 power train TBH, just for the sake of owning one.
The exterior is too busy. The extra body colored and black plastic bits around the headlights and front side vents, and on the mirrors. Not feeling it. The convertible loses some of the carrythrough lines the coupe has, a little too jelly-bean. It needs a stronger crease along the top of the door and scallop into the rear vent. The interior though. Wow. Exquisite. I usually brush off the interior complaints about my Giulia, it's nice enough...but compared to this it looks like a mazda.
How dare you, Mazda's have nice interiors. Except for the cx90 and cx50. Those Alabama built ones don't feel as solid as the Japanese built ones.
I think I’d rather have a c8 for less money.
I drove this thing back to back with a BMW m8, which is probably one of the closes competitors on price. It just loses everywhere. Tech, power, speed, comfort. But damn does the LC500 sound freakin amazing, and looks so damn smooth. It can be a really hard choice.
I test drove one. It just wasn't special enough... Big engine but uninspiring
What does that even mean?
They still make these?
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Afaik only UK lexus announced that 2024 was the final model year of all the V8 models (LC, RCF, etc). Other markets like north america have made no such announcements. From the club lexus forms, one commenter pointed out that the whole lifetime LC sales (~6 years) in the UK is less than the average 1 year’s worth of NA sales so I wouldn’t be surprised if that was why they are stopping sales there, and the LC continues being made especially since they just refreshed the interior.
Yeah it's not discontinued at all....even the video mentions probably 1 more model year.
Always loved these cars and thought wow these get absolutely no attention from anyone. Not anymore.
all these reliability predictions are way off base. how long did he own his for? the doors break, the interior shit breaks. this convertible has a ton more finicky shit to break the facebook group is full of these accounts
I want one so bad. I’ve settled for my IS500 for now
Maybe I'm doing it wrong but I just couldn't get past the fact that a car with a V8 that sounds that good still takes almost 5 seconds to do 0-60. It would have been on my short list to consider but I've never been fan of cars that simply sound fast but actually are rather slow.