Toyota’s first supercar, the Lexus LFA, was the product of almost a decade of development and engineering. Coinciding with Toyota’s return to Formula 1 in the early 2000s, the initial concept was shown at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show, with prototypes seen testing at racetracks soon after. Hand built by a dedicated production team at Toyota’s Motomachi factory in Aichi, Japan, the LFA was officially unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, and just 500 examples were constructed from 2010 to 2012.

The two-seater cabin was driver-focused, but as complete and comfortable as any luxury car, offering copious amounts of leather and carbon fiber. Based on the principle of form following function, the exterior styling closely echoed that of the concept car, featuring sharp edges and cutoffs for improved aerodynamic performance. To keep weight down while increasing strength and rigidity, 65% of the LFA’s structure was composed of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), while the remainder was aluminum, saving 220 pounds over equivalent materials.

The LFA was propelled by a naturally aspirated, front-mounted 4.8-liter V-10 developing 553 bhp at 8,700 rpm and 354 lbs./ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Mated to a six-speed automated sequential transmission mounted in the rear for optimum weight distribution, the high-revving engine had more in common with Toyota’s 3.0-liter V-10 Formula 1 engine than with any other powerplant in the Lexus family, and was capable of spinning to 9,000 rpm so quickly that a digital tachometer (rather than a conventional unit) was required. Dry sump lubrication prevented oil starvation through high-speed corners and lowered the engine’s center of gravity. Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes were capable of repeated high-speed stops without fade. The LFA dispatched 0–60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, and a top speed of 202 mph was possible. It stood shoulderto- shoulder with its pedigreed contemporaries from Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche. Praise from the motoring press was effusive, with British commentator Jeremy Clarkson declaring it “the best car I have ever driven.” According to a copy of its original certificate of origin, dated March 15, 2011, this LFA was delivered new to Lexus of Austin in Texas. Boasting an original MSRP of nearly $380,000, the new Lexus supercar was showcased as a feature display of the 2012 Austin Auto Show. One of only 26 examples originally finished in Metallic Silver (Code 1F2), this LFA was desirably optioned with red brake calipers and light premium metallic BBS wheels. Each LFA interior was individually tailored with bespoke appointments; this car features striking red leather upholstery with black accents, stitching, and Alcantara headliner, beautifully set off by carbon fiber and black-anodized magnesium trim.

Retained by authorized Lexus dealers until its sale to the consignor, the LFA remains in pristine original condition, displaying just 4,612 miles at the time of cataloguing. An accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report notes four services carried out since 2019, the most recent performed by Lexus El Cajon in August 2023 with 4,494 miles recorded. Consistent with its outstanding condition, the Lexus is offered with an impressive complement of factorydelivered accessories, literature, and mementos. Included with the sale is a carbon fiber-patterned Tumi luggage set, serial-numbered, laser-cut LFA crystal, car cover, manuals, literature, and assorted service records.

A showcase of Toyota’s technological prowess, the LFA offered a combination of qualities distinct from other contemporary supercars. Its Formula 1-derived engine, concept-car styling, exotic materials, and complex build process made the LFA a unique project in the company’s history, the likes of which will likely never be undertaken again.

Of the 500 LFAs produced, just 181 examples were originally built for the US market. Of these, car no. 54 stands out as one of just 10 examples finished in Metallic Silver, as most were specified in more common shades of white, black, and red. Further distinguished by its in-period auto show pedigree and pristine condition, this low-mileage Japanese supercar is the very definition of a modern collectible – a magnificent machine that is sure to be admired and appreciated by future generations of car enthusiasts.