With its 5.0-litre, naturally-aspirated and Yamaha tuned V8 engine...
The Lexus RC-F is ageing like a fine wine
With every progression that technology ushers in, there are some regressions too.
With the advent of turbocharging and a clampdown on vehicle emissions, many hi-po V8 engines lost their voices. Stymied by exhaust-driven turbines at the start of their exhaust systems, the turbocharged V8 – despite sharing the same cylinder count – feels very different from a naturally aspirated one.
Where turbo V8s have a bulky and short low-down torque band, the N/A contemporary has a bright and broad spectrum of power delivery. The old-school V8 is more linear and offers greater pleasure when pressed to the redline.
Then there’s the induction-heavy engine noise coupled with an intoxicating exhaust note. The sound of a meaty V8 engine is unmistakable, and naturally aspirated engines are destined to make certain cars memorable and revered.
Mix in some bulletproof Toyota reliability, and the RC F strokes both your emotional and your rational side.
The car pictured – 2014 Lexus RC F
This Lexus RC F was built in November 2014. It was configured in ‘202 – black’ with an off-white leather interior and light carbon fibre inlays, as well as a sunroof. It was also optioned with a machined/anthracite finish to its wheels.
It’s powered by the legendary ‘2UR’ 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 351 kilowatts and 530 Nm torque. Power is worked through an eight-speed automatic and sent exclusively to the back wheels. The Lexus RC F is equipped without a TVD and instead features a regular Torsen LSD—the choice for enthusiasts who like driving sideways.
Its second row of seating features ISOFIX mounting points for child seats. Standard features include electric sports seats with memory, seat cooling and heating, climate control, cruise control, keyless entry and starting, tri-beam LED headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Its infotainment screen and digital gauge cluster both read completely in English.
This example was purchased from a dealership in Tokyo, Japan, and is an accident- and rust-free example. The vehicle is completely standard.
The price advertised includes three months of NSW registration, a new set of high-quality Continental tyres and a vehicle service.
Quick facts
- 2014 Lexus RC F
- Black / off-white interior
- Torsen LSD
- 97,301km
- 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine
- Optional leather interior
- Air conditioned and heated seats
- Sunroof
- Automatic transmission / rear-wheel drive
- Factory equipment: leather trim, 19-inch machined/anthracite wheels, cruise control, electric seats, keyless entry & start, phone connectivity
- Export certificate with odometer guarantee
- Vehicle serviced in Australia
- New Continental tyres fitted
- Price includes three months NSW registration
- Price includes SEVS compliance
- Price includes a NSW roadworthy
I built the RC F to be enjoyed by all enthusiasts, no matter their level of expertiseChief Engineer Yukihiko Yaguchi, launch of Lexus RC F Jan. 14, 2014
