I've been looking over the TL forums for some months, but haven't managed to get my hands on a manual six-speed yet.

I currently drive a '95 5-speed manual 300ZX twin turbo. The reason I don't have a newer car? Four wheel steering, rear-wheel drive, and zero to ohmygawd in a handful of seconds.

Now that I'm in my mid 30s I'm starting to grow up a little and am considering the TL. I don't want to give up performance but want to pick up a little bit of luxury.

I've looked at the BMWs and frankly I just don't get it. VINYL in a car that costs $1,000s MORE? I'd swear at least $10k of the price is for that little goofy emblem. They just LOOK cheap to me. But it is starting to sound like the BMWs are better-handling vehicles. That's the kicker for me. The TL felt like a much nicer car for less money (keep in mind - I've not driven one yet - only looked it over) but one thing really makes me a bit trepedatious about buying one... Front... Wheel... Drive...

Even though it only has about 30hp less than my Z, I'm sure it weighs considerably more and I know you can't really compare apples to oranges. My question is will the TL be a huge disappointment after driving a vehicle like the Nissan?

Obviously I need to test drive a TL 6MT, but haven't been able to get my hands on one yet and it takes time to get the "feel" of a car, anyway. What are the thoughts of the forum participants? Based just on the handling and performance, not on the technogasm you get from the interior, how happy are you with your TLs? All feedback welcome and thank you.

 

Hey JRmoore,
My dream car is BMW M3.What I wouldn't give to have that car! But, since I live in New England, it doesn't make sense for me to kill myself with payments for a car that I can barely afford. Especially on a car that I can only drive 9 out of 12 months.
If I lived in a warmer climate I might have been more inclined to get a sports car like a RX-8 or S2000 or even a Corvette. It's a matter of practicality and performance. Bang for the Buck there isn't a nicer looking and performing sedan on the market right now in my opinion.



Chad

 

I started off with a 91 Integra, then went on to puchase a brand new E36 M3 in 98, and now I drive a 03 350Z. I am starting a family and my fiance needs a 4 door. We test drove the new TL, and we both like it.

I am still debating if I should get this or a new 5 series.....which is a little over my budget!!

After testing driving the car, I can assure you it is well built. It is no rear wheel drive, but as you mentioned, we grew up some, and to me, "spirited driving" ones in a while is enough for me, and for that, I think the TL is enough...besides, I still have my 350Z......

 

duplicate

 

Damn moodie, thats a nice ass 350 Z. Do you have any mods on it ? I have a Agean blue pearl 03 Tls I just love that blue in the sunlight...

 

Thanks!!

Just clear bra, tint, Volk TE37 19s and TEIN coilovers with EDFC.

Sort of my last toy before getting married next year:p

 

well i currently have 4 nissans in the house and i just got an acura tl 04 SSM with ebony / navi / aerodynamic body kit / deck lid spoiler....and let me tell you something...it is MUCH MORE SMOOTHER than any of the nissans...the engine is much more quiet...and the features are just incredible...if i were you, i would go for the TL...it's a great car, i am only 20 and the price is reasonable but you get sooo much for what you pay for...i wanted an IS300 before, G35X, FX35 but none of them are as great as the TL...

 

I test drove the 2004 TL and feel it is much more refined than the last generation TL. Felt more solid, and I really can't beat that price for all the amenities I get......

Other TL owner comments?

 

Amazingly, the car is really well balanced, I drive my cars hard almost all the time, so even at 8/10's the car has extremely well mannered! I was really surprised at the all season’s performance (I just came out of a 96 maxima SE MT with a plus 2 tire wheel upgrade with a set of O.Z.’s and Yoko AVS sports and some engine/suspension tweaks). This car outperforms the Maxima with all those tweaks!

We (wife) has also owned last gen 5 series and 7 series and would say that the materials used are on par, but not as quirky as the BMW’s cars are similar in ride and size (while the 7 is longer, the TL is a little wider). I was considering either the 330i performance package or the A4 sport, but they were too small, and not worth the money, also looking at used A6 4.2 and 5 sports, but for less money than the a used version of those, I got a new TL!

I have used one word to describe the TL, which is “composed” when it comes to handling. Go for the TL! Acura has really turned things around with the TSX and new TL, and it is worth it for the sporting types (Luxo minded persons who like driving couches, need not apply! )

 

Thats' good to hear! I think I will put a deposit down....

Fiance's lease won't end till March 04, so I have some time to let Acura fix some of the minor rattles....

 

But Moodie, don't take our opinion, make sure you drive it, as each person has differnt takes and priorities, that should be your final answer!

Good luck!

 

I only test drove the 5AT because this will be my fiance's car. Any problems with transmission? Is the gear change very smooth on the automatic?

 

I tested the Auto as well. It was very nice. I didn't care so much for the sport shift feature of it. I guess I'm too used to having a manual. Overall, it was very smooth and had effortless acceleration from a standstill.


Chad

 

JR,
I am in exact same position but my turbo Z is a 91 so I cant get enuf on trade in to be worth doing. I am keeping it for weekends and cool evenings!. The TL is a sweet sweet drive. Tons more luxury and convenience than the Z. If there is any way to keep both do it. IT drives more than well. Quieter than the Z, not near as stiff. A much more comfortable ride. I am 52 not 30 and would opt for the TL but even as an old guy I would have had a tough time letting go of the Z if I'd had to. I had the exact same trepidations! Good luck with your decision. If you havent driven the TL go give it a shot. It isnt a rocket but it is quicker than most cars on the street and certainly no cause for embarassment. By the way, the Z feels faster than it is (assumig no mods made) because of its size, its stiff suspension and its height above the road. It rides like a race car! Let us know what you do.

 

The automatic is very very smooth now. It also shifts about 33% more quickly both in auto and in manual modes.

 

 

Jr - Go drive the car and let it convince you on it's own merit!

3 years ago, I got a Lexus IS 300 because I *hated* the way that the 2001 Acura TL drove! Was like a station wagon. The 2004 Acura TL is reborn anddefinitely kicks butt!!! May not be as performance oriented as a BMW or 350Z, but it meets my requirements ...

I'm picking up my 2004 Acura TL (Anthracite / Ebony) in the AM!!!!

 

Moodie,
Gorgeous Z, dude. Didnt know Nissan made such a great color.

 

I've got the TL 6MT and I really do enjoy driving it. But when I really want to have fun, I take the Cobra out. I will say that the TL does well crossing the lines between sport and luxury.

 

my dreamcar!!!!... Is it an original? 427ci?

 

Nice rims and drop on the Z.

 

No I wish, it's an LA Exotics with a 428 CJ, dual carbs and 5 speed Tremec w/ Ford 9". It's the fastest car I've ever owned or driven w/ a 0-60 in about 3.5 seconds.

 

If you're like me, you're spoiled by the performance and you'll be disappointed by the TL and similar sport sedans. I used to have a 2001 Cobra; traded it in on a 2002 IS-300 for the luxury and nav system. I missed the horsepower so much, I traded the Lexus in on a 2003 Cobra.

The only solution I've found is to have both a luxury car and a high performance car.

 

Thanks Hickdoc, the color is Daytona Blue!:o

 

Thanks Emu.....just trying to do it right! Going for the nice and clean look!! I am planning on some aero stuff this Christmas, then a titanium exhuast and some big brakes to complete the package!!

 

Two or more cars is the way to go. If you are only going to have one, and performance is really important to you, I would suggest getting a 1999 M3 or 1999-2001 540i, CPO with a few years and 40k or more left on the warranty.

I am considering the TL and the TSX (in addition to the M3 and 540i) because I have an NSX in the garage. If I could only have one car (in the $25-30k used price range), it would probably be one of the aforementioned bimmers.

FWIW, that Z shouldn't be that expensive to keep as a weekend/track car, but I don't have any idea what your situation is (it may well be paid off).

Of course, remember that having two cars means that both of them can be in the shop at the same time.