It feels like the end of an automotive fairy tale. Lexus built one of the most unique automobiles the world has ever seen, and it was priced like a bargain, even at nearly six figures. The V8-powered Lexus LC 500 ended production in August of 2026. Along with the RC F and the IS 500, it marked the end of the Lexus V8s. The LC 500 and hybrid LC 500h were low-volume sellers, having moved just 25,000 units over the course of a 9-year production run. For comparison's sake, the Lexus RX sells that many in three months.2026 Lexus LC 500 ConvertibleCars & BidsJust don't make the mistake of thinking the LC 500's story is over. Now that the production run has ended and Lexus no longer builds a V8-powered vehicle, the slinky grand-tourer is even more desirable. It wasn't just me calling it's collectibility on the interwebs, it was largely predicted that pre-owned versions would draw a lot of attention from buyers. Here are a handful of examples that show how special the vehicle has become in the hearts of collectors.2026 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Series – $128,000 (So Far)The 2026 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Series Coupe was a very limited run of 550 cars finished in Smoke Matte Gray with a white and black interior. Prior years were also limited production with special paint finishes and interiors. This one has only 200 miles on the odometer and comes by way of Cars & Bids. It comes with 21″ forged wheels, a limited-slip differential, active rear steering, a carbon fiber roof, carbon fiber spoiler, heated and ventilated leather seats, a head-up display, and a Mark Levinson sound system.This one is #425 of 550 units made in 2026 (including coupes and convertibles). It went live at the Willow Springs Reimagined as part of the Cars & Bids Willow Springs Collection, and there are nine days remaining with a current bid of $128,000. It has already exceeded its $123,889 sticker price with over one week remaining for the auction. It will, undoubtedly,2023 Lexus LC500 Coupe – $117,500This red 2023 LC 500 Coupe recently sold on Bring A Trailer for well above its $94,450 MSRP when new three years ago. This is before the facelift that refined the exterior, improved the infotainment screen and interface, as well as removed the much-maligned trackpad controller. Yes, the mileage is extremely low for a three year-old pre-owned version, but $20k over retail is an impressive sales price, nonetheless.The vehicle is, essentially, new and the condition is excellent. Even the interior looks like it hasn't even been occupied. This version received the optional Infrared paint, the premium Mark Levinson sound system, the All-Weather Package, a Head-Up Display, triple-beam LED headlights, a retractable rear spoiler, and Adaptive Variable Suspension. It's not even an Inspiration Series model, so the commanding price over the original $107,460 sticker is even more surprising.2022 Lexus LC500 Convertible Inspiration Series – $131,000Even rarer than this year's Inspiration Series, this low-mileage LC 500 Convertible Inspiration Series just sold for a cool $131,000. It's #123/150. Clad in Iridium paint over Black & Dark Rose leather upholstery with a Dark Rose power soft top, this model will turn heads. Of course, underneath that long Grand Touring hood is the mellifluous 5.0-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission.This model also comes with a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, Adaptive Variable Suspension, 21″ two-tone multi-spoke wheels, heated and ventilated power-adjustable front sport seats, a head-up display, a Mark Levinson sound system, Enhanced Active Noise Control, and dynamic radar cruise control. The original price of the car was listed at $116,470, so the substantially higher winning bid price for a four year-old car reflects the LC 500 Convertible's collectibility.Final ThoughtsThese three examples are evidence that the Lexus LC 500 could be a future collectible classic. Thanks to its rare naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, rear-wheel drive dynamics, concept car styling, lounge-like cabin, and impeccable craftsmanship, it's unmatched for the price. Enthusiasm for the car right after the end of its production isn't tantamount to a wise invesment, but the LC 500 is truly a unicorn in a herd of lesser beasts. It combines design, V8 sound, and artistic character in a way that will probably never be replicated as a mainstream production car.
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