1997 Lexus SC: trims, real prices & how to pick yours

2 builds left the factory as a 1997 SC, each a different combination of engine, transmission and body identified by the first eight characters of its VIN.

  • 2 main configurations
  • 265 vehicles built
  • 5 for sale right now

Which SC is yours?

Enter a VIN — the 17 characters on the windshield or the title — and we’ll match it to its exact factory configuration, typical price and equipment.

Works with any VIN — a different year or model takes you straight to its own page.

Pick your SC

Cost to run

16/22 mpg city/highway. Roughly $2,580/yr on fuel at 15,000 miles.

EPA estimate for the 1997 SC

Safety, in plain English

What JT8CH32Y-V means

JT8 CH32Y · V
JT8
the World Manufacturer Identifier Lexus registered — assembled in Japan
CH32Y
together encode the SC line — Coupe, 4L 8cyl — as Lexus filed it, these five characters are read as one block, not letter by letter
V
in position 10 — model year 1997
9, 11–17
differ on every car: check digit, plant code and the serial number

Already looking at a specific SC?

Paste its VIN — we’ll open that exact car’s page: its configuration, market position and every listing we’ve tracked.