Acura TL 1998Change

I initially wanted a Legend, but nobody would want to sell theirs. I was also very impressed with my friend’s 1996 model of 3.2 TL. I went and look for a used one in 2004. BTW, my friend is still driving his 1996 3.2TL. It took me a long while to spot one in the market. It was not inexpensive at the time for a used car, but the US made (Maryville, Ohio) model newer than 1998 at that time was considered not as reliable as this last model from Japan. There was a reason for that. The original price difference between 1998 Japanese made and 1999 US made is $7,000. I had to bite the bullet to get the Japanese made and paid a bit more. It was all worth it.

For most people who do not follow this Acura line, the contemporary TL in those days had 5-cylinder 2.5L (176hp) and V6-3.2 TL (200hp). I test drove the 2.5L and found it a bite under power especially with the AC on. I imagine it is a matter of weight and torque proportion. I had a hunch that the parts availability may be a problem because 5-cylinder is so rare in NA. It is a pretty heavy car for an engine smaller than a 6-cylinder.

This car is so reliable that you would not believe. A client of mine and his wife both love the TL. They would get a new TL every three years or so. He told me of all the TL that they had driven, the Japanese made is by far the best. This car has all the bells and whistles; heated front seats and all. Anyone who owns one will attest that if you follow the owner’s manual and keep up with schedule maintenance. It will go the distance for you. You can very well see there are not too many used ones for sale on the market. It was exactly the same situation when I had to look for one in 2004. It is a gem in the used car market. If you are looking for one for your youngster to go to college, it is what I would recommend. In the meantime, I will hang on to mine until there are only four wheels left; or pass it down to my grandson.

I have had this car for 2 years. I can tell you it's a fantastic car which has taken me to so many places far and near quite nicely and safely.

It is time to upgrade for me so I would like to pass it on to another respectful owner and take care of it as I have taken care of it.

The driving is so fun and comfortable and it is a joy taking turns because they are so smooth in this car unlike any other I have ever driven.

Drives well. A bit high on the gas as it takes premium. Interesting that it is a 5 cylinder. Good trunk space. Sleek. Love the wood grain touches. All leather interior. Power windows, seats are okay not that comfy.