Please push me FOR or AGAINST buying my first TL and $30K+ car
07-06-2005, 08:01 PM
#41
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I agree with Brett, performance aside, that car is just ugly - inside and out. And while the G35 may have the RWD advantage, this does not make the TL a car that performs poorly. As a matter of fact, when the TL lost a sport sedan comparison to the G35 last year, C&D or MT (can't recall) made sure to point out that it was ONLY because the G35 was RWD, and had the TL been RWD it would have been no competition.
07-06-2005, 08:19 PM
#42
The coupe with full body kit isn't too bad. The G is more Rounded the the TL, which is more stealth. I personally like the future look. They also didn't do too well on the inside of the G.
07-06-2005, 08:26 PM
#43
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1st pic looks good there Shodog. still down to the TL and G for me!
ifi get the G i want the 19'' coupe wheels on the sedan!
if either company makes the white with blk interior, im sold
ifi get the G i want the 19'' coupe wheels on the sedan!
if either company makes the white with blk interior, im sold
07-07-2005, 06:20 AM
#44
Safety Car
Originally Posted by crazymjb
The coupe with full body kit isn't too bad. The G is more Rounded the the TL, which is more stealth. I personally like the future look. They also didn't do too well on the inside of the G.
03CoupeV6 you are right! I read that article over and over again when deciding on my next car. The ONLY thing keeping the TL, from a first place finish was the fact that it was FWD. The top three cars (325i, G35, TL) were within 3 points of each other if I remember correctly. I personally wouldn't have had the BMW 325i at number 1, but thats another story.
A lot of people have been saying that the TL has "tons" of torque steer. I do not agree. Yes the TL has some, but it is not THAT bad and I have the 6-speed. when I test drive drove the automatic, there was virtually none. If you want to see what tons of torque steer is like, then look no further than the 2004 Nissan Maxima (automatic at that!).
07-07-2005, 06:28 AM
#45
Safety Car
Originally Posted by WdnUlik2no
I agree. The body kit does wonders for both G35 Sedan and coupe, but still perfer my TL. And interior wise, its just no comparison.
03CoupeV6 you are right! I read that article over and over again when deciding on my next car. The ONLY thing keeping the TL, from a first place finish was the fact that it was FWD. The top three cars (325i, G35, TL) were within 3 points of each other if I remember correctly. I personally wouldn't have had the BMW 325i at number 1, but thats another story.
A lot of people have been saying that the TL has "tons" of torque steer. I do not agree. Yes the TL has some, but it is not THAT bad and I have the 6-speed. when I test drive drove the automatic, there was virtually none. If you want to see what tons of torque steer is like, then look no further than the 2004 Nissan Maxima (automatic at that!).
03CoupeV6 you are right! I read that article over and over again when deciding on my next car. The ONLY thing keeping the TL, from a first place finish was the fact that it was FWD. The top three cars (325i, G35, TL) were within 3 points of each other if I remember correctly. I personally wouldn't have had the BMW 325i at number 1, but thats another story.
A lot of people have been saying that the TL has "tons" of torque steer. I do not agree. Yes the TL has some, but it is not THAT bad and I have the 6-speed. when I test drive drove the automatic, there was virtually none. If you want to see what tons of torque steer is like, then look no further than the 2004 Nissan Maxima (automatic at that!).
07-07-2005, 07:16 AM
#46
I dont notice torque steer in normal driving, only in hard acceleration at low
speed, and since I am still in break in, I dont floor it much yet.
The reason we got the TL was its FWD, RWD is a pain in the snow, and who
wants to drive around with loud rough snow tires all winter....
Now if we lived in a place that did not get snow and ice, RWD would have been fine, although I would go with something else besides a g35.
It seems to me like many people seem to want a car that drives like a race car,
350hp, race car handling, along with lots of gizmo's that are really just toys
to distract the driver from driving.
But I suppose there are SOME people out there who just want a nice looking,
practical, reliable, fun to drive car with a comfortable ride for long trips.
There are loads of tricks that aid with the driving pleasure, my Passat was loaded
with them, rain sensing wipers, radio stays on after you shut the car off
untill you open the door, 8 way power seats for driver AND passenger,
auto dim rear view mirror, heated seats, radios with easy to use KNOBS and
no menu's to scroll through to get what you want, a dedicated outside temp
display on the dash with a low temp warning to let you know ice could form
on the road, and lots of other things that help you drive and spend less time fooling with things inside the car.
It seems to me like the Japanese need to do things like auto headlights,
timers on the radio, auto rain sensing wipers, power steering wheel with memory, and so on, and less on things like voice command and sat nav,
bluetooth, etc, which in my eye are just useless toys to play with, the manufacturers hype this stuff and people think they have to have it.
If you are talking on the phone and playing with the sat nav, you can not be
paying much attention to driving your wonderful car....
Brett
speed, and since I am still in break in, I dont floor it much yet.
The reason we got the TL was its FWD, RWD is a pain in the snow, and who
wants to drive around with loud rough snow tires all winter....
Now if we lived in a place that did not get snow and ice, RWD would have been fine, although I would go with something else besides a g35.
It seems to me like many people seem to want a car that drives like a race car,
350hp, race car handling, along with lots of gizmo's that are really just toys
to distract the driver from driving.
But I suppose there are SOME people out there who just want a nice looking,
practical, reliable, fun to drive car with a comfortable ride for long trips.
There are loads of tricks that aid with the driving pleasure, my Passat was loaded
with them, rain sensing wipers, radio stays on after you shut the car off
untill you open the door, 8 way power seats for driver AND passenger,
auto dim rear view mirror, heated seats, radios with easy to use KNOBS and
no menu's to scroll through to get what you want, a dedicated outside temp
display on the dash with a low temp warning to let you know ice could form
on the road, and lots of other things that help you drive and spend less time fooling with things inside the car.
It seems to me like the Japanese need to do things like auto headlights,
timers on the radio, auto rain sensing wipers, power steering wheel with memory, and so on, and less on things like voice command and sat nav,
bluetooth, etc, which in my eye are just useless toys to play with, the manufacturers hype this stuff and people think they have to have it.
If you are talking on the phone and playing with the sat nav, you can not be
paying much attention to driving your wonderful car....
Brett
07-07-2005, 08:32 AM
#47
AZ Community Team
I'll throw in my $0.02
Solara Convertable - Reliable car but kinda mushy ride and styling seems kinda dull to me. The chassis is not as still as the TL, then again it is difficult to make a convertible chassis stiff for the same weight of the chassis as a sedan.
325Ci Convertable - Nice car and BMW have gotten much better at convertible design. Other than being expensive it is a great car.
G35 - I've driven them on short closed road courses back to back with a TL. Great handling and nice engine. The G35's 5AT transmission had poor shifting on multiple models over different years. Also the interior looks and feels cheap. A neighbor has one and every time I look at the instrument cluster and center stackup it reminds me of a mid- 80's Nissan econobox not a $35K car.
TL - I have 5K miles on mine and am quite happy with the overall driving and owndership experience. I've had a couple small rattles come and go (fortunately), the outdoor temp has blanked out a couple times and again fixed itself. I would still buy this car again.
In the end, for a 4 door sedan under $40K nothing is close to meeting all the features, functions, quality, and performance of the 3rd Gen TL.
Solara Convertable - Reliable car but kinda mushy ride and styling seems kinda dull to me. The chassis is not as still as the TL, then again it is difficult to make a convertible chassis stiff for the same weight of the chassis as a sedan.
325Ci Convertable - Nice car and BMW have gotten much better at convertible design. Other than being expensive it is a great car.
G35 - I've driven them on short closed road courses back to back with a TL. Great handling and nice engine. The G35's 5AT transmission had poor shifting on multiple models over different years. Also the interior looks and feels cheap. A neighbor has one and every time I look at the instrument cluster and center stackup it reminds me of a mid- 80's Nissan econobox not a $35K car.
TL - I have 5K miles on mine and am quite happy with the overall driving and owndership experience. I've had a couple small rattles come and go (fortunately), the outdoor temp has blanked out a couple times and again fixed itself. I would still buy this car again.
In the end, for a 4 door sedan under $40K nothing is close to meeting all the features, functions, quality, and performance of the 3rd Gen TL.
07-07-2005, 12:44 PM
#48
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Originally Posted by 03CoupeV6
I agree with Brett, performance aside, that car is just ugly - inside and out. And while the G35 may have the RWD advantage, this does not make the TL a car that performs poorly.
.
.
"The car's equipment levels are extraordinary, and the Elliot Scheiner stereo is an aural delight. But—and it's a big but—the TL has annoying torque steer. For me, that's a fatal flaw."
"But there's a catch: 270 horsepower plus the limited-slip diff that goes with the six-speed manual produce more than a little torque reaction. It's only the limited slip doing its job, but that knowledge doesn't seem to soften the response of most who experience it."
"For some ungodly reason, though, the TL has picked up a wicked front limited-slip differential that produces unruly torque steer—even in third gear. Gonna be hard to beat the rear-drive Bimmers and G35s."
Originally Posted by 03CoupeV6
As a matter of fact, when the TL lost a sport sedan comparison to the G35 last year, C&D or MT (can't recall) made sure to point out that it was ONLY because the G35 was RWD, and had the TL been RWD it would have been no competition.
07-07-2005, 04:24 PM
#51
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Originally Posted by WdnUlik2no
In fact I was going back and forth between the TL and G35 for over a year. The only thing keeping me from picking the TL right off the bat was the FWD. But after numerous test drives, I decided it wasn't that bad. 8 months later I do not regret my decision.
07-07-2005, 05:45 PM
#53
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Originally Posted by crazymjb
The TL is much different the a mustang or a vette. The TL is luxery/sport while those two are sport/sport. The G35 is Sport/Luxery
07-12-2005, 05:49 PM
#54
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Originally Posted by Brettg
Yes, I would test drive the cars you are interested in, many times, and be sure
to go out on the interstate and check out the hiway noise levels, at speed
handling and response.
The wife and I took the new TL for a 300 mile drive yesterday to hawk mountan
in PA.
The car was very nice, and fun to drive, but not as nice as my old Passat GLX.
The ride (with manual transmission) seems a bit stiff, great for going around corners, but very anoying on bad roads.
Little things piss me off about the car, changing the radio stations is impossable
on anything but a smooth road, for each small amount of turn of the knob, you go past about 10 stations, I would say each station is about 1/16 a degree turn
of the knob....pull over and change stations!
The displays suck, why must I scroll through options and so on to get to the trip computer, and why can I not look at outside temps, and mpg at the same time?
To top it off, the buttons are hidden behind the steering wheel, where I can not
see them!
The seat heater switches are easy to bump by mistake, great having the heat on
in 90F weather after hiking up mountans!
The seats in the TL seem to get hot even with no seat heater on, like they
were insulated under the leather, the Passat did not do that.
The Passat seats were also a bit more comfortable, with 8 way
power adjustment on the passengers seat also.
The switches on the steering wheel do not fall to fingers you have to
work at them (radio, cruise control).
I did like the 30 mpg I got (average) on a 300 mile trip, 1/2 a tank of gas!
I also like the smooth power on the hiway, and the wide range of rpm's
the power is avalable at, yes, you get much lower power output at low
rpm's, but there is plenty for brisk acceleration even down low.
Unfortunetly, everything VW/Audi makes is prone to constant failures, best
to do a 2 year lease on those cars, after 2 years, they tend to have
many problems.
Most VW/Audi dealers suck big time for service.
Most reviews give top pick to the TL, although they give going around corners
real fast to much importance for me, ride quality is important also...
They also dog the TL for being front wheel drive, but you dont see many BMW's
out in the snow....
I think most other cars in the TL's class look silly, inside and/or outside, or
have cheap parts inside.
The Jaguars (S and X types) have more road noise then I like, poor
motors really (based on the ford duratech V6?), the X type is very small, forget
about the back seat, reliability is poor, but dealer service is typicly top notch.
Repairs YOU have to pay for will be VERY expensive at the dealers.
I doubt gas is going to go down in price, so a car that gets 30 mpg
on the typical road trip is very nice, especialy when you get so much
power out of the engine to go with it!
Acura could learn a lot from the Germans about control layout though.
The are paying attention, they stole the LED lights in the overhead console,
the two tone soft touch meterials inside the car, etc....
Brett
to go out on the interstate and check out the hiway noise levels, at speed
handling and response.
The wife and I took the new TL for a 300 mile drive yesterday to hawk mountan
in PA.
The car was very nice, and fun to drive, but not as nice as my old Passat GLX.
The ride (with manual transmission) seems a bit stiff, great for going around corners, but very anoying on bad roads.
Little things piss me off about the car, changing the radio stations is impossable
on anything but a smooth road, for each small amount of turn of the knob, you go past about 10 stations, I would say each station is about 1/16 a degree turn
of the knob....pull over and change stations!
The displays suck, why must I scroll through options and so on to get to the trip computer, and why can I not look at outside temps, and mpg at the same time?
To top it off, the buttons are hidden behind the steering wheel, where I can not
see them!
The seat heater switches are easy to bump by mistake, great having the heat on
in 90F weather after hiking up mountans!
The seats in the TL seem to get hot even with no seat heater on, like they
were insulated under the leather, the Passat did not do that.
The Passat seats were also a bit more comfortable, with 8 way
power adjustment on the passengers seat also.
The switches on the steering wheel do not fall to fingers you have to
work at them (radio, cruise control).
I did like the 30 mpg I got (average) on a 300 mile trip, 1/2 a tank of gas!
I also like the smooth power on the hiway, and the wide range of rpm's
the power is avalable at, yes, you get much lower power output at low
rpm's, but there is plenty for brisk acceleration even down low.
Unfortunetly, everything VW/Audi makes is prone to constant failures, best
to do a 2 year lease on those cars, after 2 years, they tend to have
many problems.
Most VW/Audi dealers suck big time for service.
Most reviews give top pick to the TL, although they give going around corners
real fast to much importance for me, ride quality is important also...
They also dog the TL for being front wheel drive, but you dont see many BMW's
out in the snow....
I think most other cars in the TL's class look silly, inside and/or outside, or
have cheap parts inside.
The Jaguars (S and X types) have more road noise then I like, poor
motors really (based on the ford duratech V6?), the X type is very small, forget
about the back seat, reliability is poor, but dealer service is typicly top notch.
Repairs YOU have to pay for will be VERY expensive at the dealers.
I doubt gas is going to go down in price, so a car that gets 30 mpg
on the typical road trip is very nice, especialy when you get so much
power out of the engine to go with it!
Acura could learn a lot from the Germans about control layout though.
The are paying attention, they stole the LED lights in the overhead console,
the two tone soft touch meterials inside the car, etc....
Brett
Good review of TL. Pluses and Minuses are similiar to my own observations. The TL does ride stiffer than it needs to for a near luxury sedan.
07-12-2005, 07:19 PM
#55
Yes, I would say the TL is quite an odd car, at least in the manual trans
version, its got a quite firm suspension, lots of power, so it goes VERY well,
and goes around corners very well, yet its front wheel drive.
Now, unlike the bitching about FWD, I want a car with FWD, if I wanted a race
car I would get a vette or bmw, but I want something that goes in the snow also,
without buying snow tires.
I like the TL power, I like the way it goes around turns, it does ride a bit on the
hard side, low profile tires I guess, and poor ones at that.
I like it gets about 30 mpg on the average road trip.
So it can not be real sporty since its FWD, and it cant be pure luxury since
it goes around corners so well.
Its quite what I want for everyday driving, power and handling
to have fun with, quiet on long trips, good economy, low price, good reliability
( I hope).
I suppose there are many people who dont like the car because its not an M3,
and many who dont like it because its not a lincoln town car.
It seems nice to me...
Brett
version, its got a quite firm suspension, lots of power, so it goes VERY well,
and goes around corners very well, yet its front wheel drive.
Now, unlike the bitching about FWD, I want a car with FWD, if I wanted a race
car I would get a vette or bmw, but I want something that goes in the snow also,
without buying snow tires.
I like the TL power, I like the way it goes around turns, it does ride a bit on the
hard side, low profile tires I guess, and poor ones at that.
I like it gets about 30 mpg on the average road trip.
So it can not be real sporty since its FWD, and it cant be pure luxury since
it goes around corners so well.
Its quite what I want for everyday driving, power and handling
to have fun with, quiet on long trips, good economy, low price, good reliability
( I hope).
I suppose there are many people who dont like the car because its not an M3,
and many who dont like it because its not a lincoln town car.
It seems nice to me...
Brett
07-13-2005, 01:43 PM
#56
with the price in everything going up... people should get the corolla with the celica engine in it and be happy with 30 or so a gallon on regular. The car is about 1/2 the cost to buy, insurance, is cheaper, excise, and it will hold it value. Take the 16 grand you save and put it towards other things like home heating oil..
07-13-2005, 05:40 PM
#57
Moderator
This is my two cents:
If you're picky and have high expectations, like my father, and will not tolerate any fit and finish issues in a 30K+ car, then stay away from the TL. Although the TL is a nice car, it tends to have some rattles and other minor, but annoying issues that are unacceptable to some people in a 30K+ car.
I won't comment on the G35, aside from the fact that is the best bang for the buck car in terms of performance, handling, and price. But to me, there is more to a car than simply performance and handling.
If you're really picky, and want a near flawless car, Lexus ES330 would get my thumbs up.
But just to let you know, the Toyota Service Schedule is a PITA as the service interval now is strictly enforced at 6-mo/5,000 miles unlike the TL, which is varies, or the G35 which is 7500 miles.
Michael
If you're picky and have high expectations, like my father, and will not tolerate any fit and finish issues in a 30K+ car, then stay away from the TL. Although the TL is a nice car, it tends to have some rattles and other minor, but annoying issues that are unacceptable to some people in a 30K+ car.
I won't comment on the G35, aside from the fact that is the best bang for the buck car in terms of performance, handling, and price. But to me, there is more to a car than simply performance and handling.
If you're really picky, and want a near flawless car, Lexus ES330 would get my thumbs up.
But just to let you know, the Toyota Service Schedule is a PITA as the service interval now is strictly enforced at 6-mo/5,000 miles unlike the TL, which is varies, or the G35 which is 7500 miles.
Michael
07-13-2005, 05:47 PM
#58
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Originally Posted by NJRonbo
New to this forum. Nice to be here.
Let me start by saying that I am looking to buy my
first $30k+ car with the choice leaning towards the
Acura TL
I need to give you guys some background so you will
understand my needs here. In the end, I am hoping
you could steer me towards the perfect automobile.
First, let me say I am 42 years old and for the duration
of my adult years to date I have owned American cars
that cost around $20K. I have owned sporty Chrysler
and Ford automobiles.
Right now I own a very pretty yellow 2001 Mercury
Cougar. It's only 4 years old and has just under 24,000
miles. It is completely paid off.
So why would I want car payments again when I can
run this baby to the ground? Because the car I own is
still young and I am hoping if I can get a $10K
trade-in (the blue book says $8K), I can bring the price
of a $30-40K car down considerably.
For once in my life I am looking to own a car of value
with a bit of luxery attached.
I started looking at the Toyota Camry Solara Covertable
because I wanted a convertable. It costs about $30K and
it's a rather attractive car.
My friend told me, "Why not look at a BMW convertable
instead?" He said that though they sell for $10K more, there
is nothing like the ride of a BMW. I went online and researched
the BMW 325Ci convertable and I must say, it looks sweet.
I am afraid once I test drive this baby next week, nothing will
compare.
Another friend seemed to make even more sense by suggesting
a car that was luxerious, had a good ride, and came loaded with
enough gadgets and extras to give the best bang for the buck.
That car was the 2005 Acura TL , a car which he is a proud
owner of.
I must say, for a base price of $35K (with navigation) this looks
like the car to own.
....but I want to be certain. After all, this is my first expensive
car and I want the choice to be perfect.
From the research I have done on the Acura TL , it stands
as the best car in its class. People love it! There are a few consistent
complaints that range from a rather unsmooth ride, to a less than
spectacular sound system, to seats that can be uncomfortable, to
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
Me? I don't want this car just to look like a $35K luxery
car, but I want it to ride like it as well. I would sort of prefer
a cushioned ride, and I am afraid that is something I may have to
give up here. Additionally, I hate noisy cars. I would love to have
as much protection from outside noise as possible, and I am uncertain
that this car can do that.
Another car I am looking at is the Infinity G35 which may
be a better, smoother drive than the Acura TL , but without
all the cool extras that come standard.
So, basically, I'm down to three cars: The Toyota Camry Solara
Convertable (which I am ready to dismiss); BMW C325i
Convertable; Infinity G35 and of course, the Acura TL .
What do you guys think? I know all of you are TL owners and
that you will be very bias towards your car -- but that's fine. I am
looking for arguments mostly FOR the car, but would like to hear
the downsides as well. Perhaps many of you have owned some
of the other automobiles I have mentioned here.
In advance, thanks for the help!
Let me start by saying that I am looking to buy my
first $30k+ car with the choice leaning towards the
Acura TL
I need to give you guys some background so you will
understand my needs here. In the end, I am hoping
you could steer me towards the perfect automobile.
First, let me say I am 42 years old and for the duration
of my adult years to date I have owned American cars
that cost around $20K. I have owned sporty Chrysler
and Ford automobiles.
Right now I own a very pretty yellow 2001 Mercury
Cougar. It's only 4 years old and has just under 24,000
miles. It is completely paid off.
So why would I want car payments again when I can
run this baby to the ground? Because the car I own is
still young and I am hoping if I can get a $10K
trade-in (the blue book says $8K), I can bring the price
of a $30-40K car down considerably.
For once in my life I am looking to own a car of value
with a bit of luxery attached.
I started looking at the Toyota Camry Solara Covertable
because I wanted a convertable. It costs about $30K and
it's a rather attractive car.
My friend told me, "Why not look at a BMW convertable
instead?" He said that though they sell for $10K more, there
is nothing like the ride of a BMW. I went online and researched
the BMW 325Ci convertable and I must say, it looks sweet.
I am afraid once I test drive this baby next week, nothing will
compare.
Another friend seemed to make even more sense by suggesting
a car that was luxerious, had a good ride, and came loaded with
enough gadgets and extras to give the best bang for the buck.
That car was the 2005 Acura TL , a car which he is a proud
owner of.
I must say, for a base price of $35K (with navigation) this looks
like the car to own.
....but I want to be certain. After all, this is my first expensive
car and I want the choice to be perfect.
From the research I have done on the Acura TL , it stands
as the best car in its class. People love it! There are a few consistent
complaints that range from a rather unsmooth ride, to a less than
spectacular sound system, to seats that can be uncomfortable, to
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
Me? I don't want this car just to look like a $35K luxery
car, but I want it to ride like it as well. I would sort of prefer
a cushioned ride, and I am afraid that is something I may have to
give up here. Additionally, I hate noisy cars. I would love to have
as much protection from outside noise as possible, and I am uncertain
that this car can do that.
Another car I am looking at is the Infinity G35 which may
be a better, smoother drive than the Acura TL , but without
all the cool extras that come standard.
So, basically, I'm down to three cars: The Toyota Camry Solara
Convertable (which I am ready to dismiss); BMW C325i
Convertable; Infinity G35 and of course, the Acura TL .
What do you guys think? I know all of you are TL owners and
that you will be very bias towards your car -- but that's fine. I am
looking for arguments mostly FOR the car, but would like to hear
the downsides as well. Perhaps many of you have owned some
of the other automobiles I have mentioned here.
In advance, thanks for the help!
Good luck with your decision.
07-13-2005, 05:52 PM
#59
the ish of the crash
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Originally Posted by Brettg
I suppose there are many people who dont like the car because its not an M3,
and many who dont like it because its not a lincoln town car.
and many who dont like it because its not a lincoln town car.
07-13-2005, 09:02 PM
#61
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Originally Posted by crashish
Those people can buy the Comptech Supercharger when it comes out and likely kill M3's while remaining a) under warranty and b) ~$10k less
yeah, adding MORE power to an already limited chassis is the answer. Sigh........
You don't just add a S/C and beat an M3. The M3 is a COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE.
07-13-2005, 09:04 PM
#62
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Originally Posted by NJRonbo
New to this forum. Nice to be here.
Let me start by saying that I am looking to buy my
first $30k+ car with the choice leaning towards the
Acura TL
I need to give you guys some background so you will
understand my needs here. In the end, I am hoping
you could steer me towards the perfect automobile.
First, let me say I am 42 years old and for the duration
of my adult years to date I have owned American cars
that cost around $20K. I have owned sporty Chrysler
and Ford automobiles.
Right now I own a very pretty yellow 2001 Mercury
Cougar. It's only 4 years old and has just under 24,000
miles. It is completely paid off.
So why would I want car payments again when I can
run this baby to the ground? Because the car I own is
still young and I am hoping if I can get a $10K
trade-in (the blue book says $8K), I can bring the price
of a $30-40K car down considerably.
For once in my life I am looking to own a car of value
with a bit of luxery attached.
I started looking at the Toyota Camry Solara Covertable
because I wanted a convertable. It costs about $30K and
it's a rather attractive car.
My friend told me, "Why not look at a BMW convertable
instead?" He said that though they sell for $10K more, there
is nothing like the ride of a BMW. I went online and researched
the BMW 325Ci convertable and I must say, it looks sweet.
I am afraid once I test drive this baby next week, nothing will
compare.
Another friend seemed to make even more sense by suggesting
a car that was luxerious, had a good ride, and came loaded with
enough gadgets and extras to give the best bang for the buck.
That car was the 2005 Acura TL , a car which he is a proud
owner of.
I must say, for a base price of $35K (with navigation) this looks
like the car to own.
....but I want to be certain. After all, this is my first expensive
car and I want the choice to be perfect.
From the research I have done on the Acura TL , it stands
as the best car in its class. People love it! There are a few consistent
complaints that range from a rather unsmooth ride, to a less than
spectacular sound system, to seats that can be uncomfortable, to
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
Me? I don't want this car just to look like a $35K luxery
car, but I want it to ride like it as well. I would sort of prefer
a cushioned ride, and I am afraid that is something I may have to
give up here. Additionally, I hate noisy cars. I would love to have
as much protection from outside noise as possible, and I am uncertain
that this car can do that.
Another car I am looking at is the Infinity G35 which may
be a better, smoother drive than the Acura TL , but without
all the cool extras that come standard.
So, basically, I'm down to three cars: The Toyota Camry Solara
Convertable (which I am ready to dismiss); BMW C325i
Convertable; Infinity G35 and of course, the Acura TL .
What do you guys think? I know all of you are TL owners and
that you will be very bias towards your car -- but that's fine. I am
looking for arguments mostly FOR the car, but would like to hear
the downsides as well. Perhaps many of you have owned some
of the other automobiles I have mentioned here.
In advance, thanks for the help!
Let me start by saying that I am looking to buy my
first $30k+ car with the choice leaning towards the
Acura TL
I need to give you guys some background so you will
understand my needs here. In the end, I am hoping
you could steer me towards the perfect automobile.
First, let me say I am 42 years old and for the duration
of my adult years to date I have owned American cars
that cost around $20K. I have owned sporty Chrysler
and Ford automobiles.
Right now I own a very pretty yellow 2001 Mercury
Cougar. It's only 4 years old and has just under 24,000
miles. It is completely paid off.
So why would I want car payments again when I can
run this baby to the ground? Because the car I own is
still young and I am hoping if I can get a $10K
trade-in (the blue book says $8K), I can bring the price
of a $30-40K car down considerably.
For once in my life I am looking to own a car of value
with a bit of luxery attached.
I started looking at the Toyota Camry Solara Covertable
because I wanted a convertable. It costs about $30K and
it's a rather attractive car.
My friend told me, "Why not look at a BMW convertable
instead?" He said that though they sell for $10K more, there
is nothing like the ride of a BMW. I went online and researched
the BMW 325Ci convertable and I must say, it looks sweet.
I am afraid once I test drive this baby next week, nothing will
compare.
Another friend seemed to make even more sense by suggesting
a car that was luxerious, had a good ride, and came loaded with
enough gadgets and extras to give the best bang for the buck.
That car was the 2005 Acura TL , a car which he is a proud
owner of.
I must say, for a base price of $35K (with navigation) this looks
like the car to own.
....but I want to be certain. After all, this is my first expensive
car and I want the choice to be perfect.
From the research I have done on the Acura TL , it stands
as the best car in its class. People love it! There are a few consistent
complaints that range from a rather unsmooth ride, to a less than
spectacular sound system, to seats that can be uncomfortable, to
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
Me? I don't want this car just to look like a $35K luxery
car, but I want it to ride like it as well. I would sort of prefer
a cushioned ride, and I am afraid that is something I may have to
give up here. Additionally, I hate noisy cars. I would love to have
as much protection from outside noise as possible, and I am uncertain
that this car can do that.
Another car I am looking at is the Infinity G35 which may
be a better, smoother drive than the Acura TL , but without
all the cool extras that come standard.
So, basically, I'm down to three cars: The Toyota Camry Solara
Convertable (which I am ready to dismiss); BMW C325i
Convertable; Infinity G35 and of course, the Acura TL .
What do you guys think? I know all of you are TL owners and
that you will be very bias towards your car -- but that's fine. I am
looking for arguments mostly FOR the car, but would like to hear
the downsides as well. Perhaps many of you have owned some
of the other automobiles I have mentioned here.
In advance, thanks for the help!
07-14-2005, 02:28 AM
#64
the ish of the crash
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Originally Posted by AcuraGT-3
yeah, adding MORE power to an already limited chassis is the answer. Sigh........
You don't just add a S/C and beat an M3. The M3 is a COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE.
I would have to disagree. The M3 is a tuned E43, and very much not a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE." That is, unless you mean the M3 GTR, which is not so much a tuned E43 as a race machine dressed up like an E43 and then de-tuned a bit for DOT compliance. The GTR certainly qualifies as a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE" but it also costs somewhere around $300k so it better damn well be "PURPOSE BUILT" rather than a hopped up 330.
And as far as beating an M3, sure ya do. With the power gains that Comptech is purpotedly seeing from their SC Kit, the TL will put out more HP than the M3. I've no clue whatsoever as to the torque numbers they're seeing, but I think it's fairly reasonable to say that a TL with the Comptech SC could beat an M3. It would certainly help to do a little more to the TL to push it a little farther, but you'll still be comfortably under $50k.
07-14-2005, 07:24 AM
#65
Racer
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Originally Posted by crashish
It's not "The Answer"(tm) but it is an option. IMHO, if you want an M3, buy an M3. I think more can be done with less money if you buy something else and tune it yourself. I'm not saying that the TL is the best option for a tuner, but this is a TL forum and I think that those who wouldn't like any more power from their TLs are an infinitesimal minority.
I would have to disagree. The M3 is a tuned E43, and very much not a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE." That is, unless you mean the M3 GTR, which is not so much a tuned E43 as a race machine dressed up like an E43 and then de-tuned a bit for DOT compliance. The GTR certainly qualifies as a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE" but it also costs somewhere around $300k so it better damn well be "PURPOSE BUILT" rather than a hopped up 330.
And as far as beating an M3, sure ya do. With the power gains that Comptech is purpotedly seeing from their SC Kit, the TL will put out more HP than the M3. I've no clue whatsoever as to the torque numbers they're seeing, but I think it's fairly reasonable to say that a TL with the Comptech SC could beat an M3. It would certainly help to do a little more to the TL to push it a little farther, but you'll still be comfortably under $50k.
I would have to disagree. The M3 is a tuned E43, and very much not a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE." That is, unless you mean the M3 GTR, which is not so much a tuned E43 as a race machine dressed up like an E43 and then de-tuned a bit for DOT compliance. The GTR certainly qualifies as a "COMPLETE PURPOSE BUILT PACKAGE" but it also costs somewhere around $300k so it better damn well be "PURPOSE BUILT" rather than a hopped up 330.
And as far as beating an M3, sure ya do. With the power gains that Comptech is purpotedly seeing from their SC Kit, the TL will put out more HP than the M3. I've no clue whatsoever as to the torque numbers they're seeing, but I think it's fairly reasonable to say that a TL with the Comptech SC could beat an M3. It would certainly help to do a little more to the TL to push it a little farther, but you'll still be comfortably under $50k.
The M3 is much MORE than just a tuned 3 series. The car wins just about every comparison and is one of the best all-around cars you can buy for the money. Every company is trying to BEAT it and mostly all fail.
Clearly, you didn't see the article in Car and Driver where they tested a S/C Acura CL and the car was basically almost no quicker than stock b/c they had no traction. There was too much power to the front wheels. Comptech can't even design springs that don't rust, so the confidence in the S/C is
07-14-2005, 07:52 AM
#66
For those who want more luxury, along with the power and (somewhat) low
price, the NEW toyota avalon gets very good reviews, its big, its got
280 hp, quiet and reliable, etc.
I think it looks a bit off inside and out, but it likely is a nice car for long trips,
reliable, comfortabe, big trunk, options you want, good economy, etc.
The ford 500 also gets very good reviews except for the dog duratech
V6, a truely nasty motor, but if you dont want to go fast, its cheap
and nice overall.
The chrysler 300 is up there, but their quality is very suspect.
The buick lacross is not bad, just very average and typical buick styling.
The VW passat (GLX trim) is real nice to drive, its really in the near
luxury class, but it would likely be in the shop most of the time.
Mine was always broke in one way or another...
My top pick for a nice family car in the $30,000.00 range is the TL.
If you want real sport, or to spend more, or want a coupe, or all wheel
drive, you are looking at a different class car than the TL.
For those who need to go in the snow, the FWD is a smart choice, you have
the choice between all wheel drive which blunts performance, reduces
the economy, adds weight, and adds possable reliability problems down the road,
and front wheel drive with good tires on it.
I think the TL is the top pick for fun and luxury, reliability and low price, in
a front wheel drive car.....
I have the manual trans, and in normal driving, and even during some
quick driving (not race track) I dont notice the front wheel drive much if at all.
Part of the advantage of having a lot of power is not having to push
the car much, moderate throttle at moderate rpm's has the TL zoom
nicely away from most other cars...without FWD problems.
Brett
price, the NEW toyota avalon gets very good reviews, its big, its got
280 hp, quiet and reliable, etc.
I think it looks a bit off inside and out, but it likely is a nice car for long trips,
reliable, comfortabe, big trunk, options you want, good economy, etc.
The ford 500 also gets very good reviews except for the dog duratech
V6, a truely nasty motor, but if you dont want to go fast, its cheap
and nice overall.
The chrysler 300 is up there, but their quality is very suspect.
The buick lacross is not bad, just very average and typical buick styling.
The VW passat (GLX trim) is real nice to drive, its really in the near
luxury class, but it would likely be in the shop most of the time.
Mine was always broke in one way or another...
My top pick for a nice family car in the $30,000.00 range is the TL.
If you want real sport, or to spend more, or want a coupe, or all wheel
drive, you are looking at a different class car than the TL.
For those who need to go in the snow, the FWD is a smart choice, you have
the choice between all wheel drive which blunts performance, reduces
the economy, adds weight, and adds possable reliability problems down the road,
and front wheel drive with good tires on it.
I think the TL is the top pick for fun and luxury, reliability and low price, in
a front wheel drive car.....
I have the manual trans, and in normal driving, and even during some
quick driving (not race track) I dont notice the front wheel drive much if at all.
Part of the advantage of having a lot of power is not having to push
the car much, moderate throttle at moderate rpm's has the TL zoom
nicely away from most other cars...without FWD problems.
Brett
07-15-2005, 01:30 PM
#67
3rd Gear
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Take the plunge, you wont regret it
I have a 04 TL with 30K miles and I still cant wait to get into this car. Previously, I owned a 91 Legend and put 270k miles on it and beside wearing out the driver seat the car looked fabulous. A friend bought it for his novice driving son and I feel secure knowing that he will get good value and be safe. In 99 I decided to treat myself to the Mercedes driving experience. Well that was certainly and experience and not one I would ever subject myself to again. German engineering has nothing to offer. The car was a rattle trap and started to rust just after the warranty expired. I sold it with 40k miles and took an ass whooping on it just to unload the thing. I would have replaced my Legend with another Acura, but at the time Acura went into some kind of seizure design wise and I did not find the RL appealing. My previous new cars were VW Jetta's; great cars but terribly expensive to maintain. The other cars you are shopping are all very nice, but I have friends with each of those and they all envy me and my TL. Best of luck and do not be afraid to shop dealerships out of town.
07-15-2005, 06:48 PM
#68
Originally Posted by NJRonbo
a less than spectacular sound system, to seats that can be uncomfortable, to
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
leather seats that wrinkle and constant rattling inside the car.
where did you hear the complaints about the sound system???
07-21-2005, 06:32 PM
#69
Bobz
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Originally Posted by Acuraluvr
most of the complaints are taken care of for the 05' models
where did you hear the complaints about the sound system???
where did you hear the complaints about the sound system???
The sound system is first class. However your other comment:
"I would sort of prefer
a cushioned ride"
You don't want a TL. You need to drive the Lexus ES300. The TL is a very firm ride. You also might like the BMW ride which is also firm but better damping.
07-21-2005, 07:41 PM
#70
10th Gear
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The TL isn't a bad car to own, but beware of a few things:
Crappy factory finish (at least on mine).
Shitty life on the original tires (a common complaint).
Its kinda thirsty on gas, eventhough it is "only" a 3.2. I also have a V6 Accord with virtually the same engine, and it is much better on gas.
Other than that, it kicks butt.
Crappy factory finish (at least on mine).
Shitty life on the original tires (a common complaint).
Its kinda thirsty on gas, eventhough it is "only" a 3.2. I also have a V6 Accord with virtually the same engine, and it is much better on gas.
Other than that, it kicks butt.
07-22-2005, 01:18 PM
#71
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You dont really state what factors you value/require in a car and you are comparing cars in different segments. From your Cougar, any of these cars will impress you with their ride/handling/power characteristics. From a financial standpoint, you are better off keeping the Cougar another 3 years at least. Any of these new cars will depreciate far more in the next 3 years than your Cougar will. The people on this board all chose TL's for their value/content ratio and power and refinement. They are also roomier than those other cars and remarkably can get over 30mpg. Mine has 88k miles and still feels new.
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