I tried to research to no avail. I am in the market for a TL to drive every day. It is mainly a commuter. I have my toys and want something nice and comfy but still reliable and holds its value to drive to work. I have chosen a 3rd Gen as my purchase but now I need to determine whether I want 2004-2006 or 2007-2008. Although the S and A-Spec look sweet, I am fine with a base model. I am sure I will add some wheels and a tasteful OEM spoiler and or lip kit.

I am trying to determine what the true differences are between the two year segments. I know that they do differ on the DRL being in the bumper on the newer as well as a different steering wheel gauges and a few other minor interior mods. I will say that I like the taillights from the newer but I would assume I could put a set in the older. I had read that the mirrors had turn signals in the newer as well. There were also some changes in the Air Bag stuff.

I am sure I am missing some thing but as far as a crucial component or a big detractor that I am missing, please fill me in. I would prefer just to say I will buy a 07-08 but the 04-05 is almost $10K cheaper. That's a lot of extra cash to put my own flare on the car if the differences are mainly cosmetic..... Any insight is greatly appreciated. Anything I should watch out for?

 

On my initial search I found these links...also gave you the wikipedia page...

https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=642291&highlight=difference+04-08+tl
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=761794&highlight=difference+years
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acura_TL#Third_Generation_.28UA6-UA7.29
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=728467&highlight=difference+years

The search button is your friend...

 

Some nice threads in the post above mine. Welcome to Acurazine. Hope you find the TL you can fall in love with........

 

As an owner of both an 04 and now an 08, I would say go with an 07+ if you can afford it. The differences are not huge but appreciated and 4 years of building a particular type of car tends to make it more refined. Oh, get the Navi. You won't regret it.

 

Thank you all for the replies. I guess I had anticipated more differences than what I had already uncovered. I researched it for a while and actually came up with most of those links and the wiki but for some reason I assumed there was more to be able to justify the price difference. Personally I would like to pick up an 07-08 just because it is newer and I prefer the taillights but the thought of paying cash for an 04-06 is very enticing. Again, thank you for your help and helpfully you will see a new purchase post from me soon. Cheers.

 

I am walking in with 219 $100 dollar bills and should be walking out with keys and a title for this beauty today. It is EXACTLY what I wanted even though I would have been happy with a non S and earlier model. Cheers