View of perspective owner who is 80%committed
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Joined: Dec 2003
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From: Plainfield, NJ
View of perspective owner who is 80%committed
Been lurking for the past month trying to get unbiased opinions about the TL and from consensus I have formed some. I currently own a 95 540i 6 speed and my lease is up in 5 months on my toy-a 00 BMW M roadster and then I will sell the 540 and get a new car (non lease). I would never have considered a FWD car until this winter where obviously I can't drive the M and the BMW can't make it up the incline in my long driveway (new house this yr)) Being 55 yrs old I am way past my car can beat your car and my current priorities are stick, 4 doors, acceleration, handling, navigation, AWD, and have a feeling of luxury as I want to stay under 45K. It appears that the TL is the best compromise out there for me.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on... so I gotta compromise somewhere. Unfortunately there is no AWD TL and if and when one comes out it will probably be automatic.
So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++
Based upon what I read here my guess is that is will be barely
noticeable-unlike the Car/Driver review where they really pushed the cars in the turns and my guess is that the posters here that complain about torque steer probably push their cars more than I intend to.
Anyhow this is an excellent forum and I look forward to sharing some views and learning more about the car from those who own them.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on... so I gotta compromise somewhere. Unfortunately there is no AWD TL and if and when one comes out it will probably be automatic.
So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++
Based upon what I read here my guess is that is will be barely
noticeable-unlike the Car/Driver review where they really pushed the cars in the turns and my guess is that the posters here that complain about torque steer probably push their cars more than I intend to.
Anyhow this is an excellent forum and I look forward to sharing some views and learning more about the car from those who own them.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 862
Likes: 0
From: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
A couple of points for you to consider:
Make sure you drive a car without the Bridgestone Turanza EL42 All-Season Tires. I have Blizzak LM22s on mine for the winter, and they handle as good or better in the dry than the Turanzas, with a massive improvement in the snow. In the summer I will be getting the 18/Yoko setup. A good all-season will also give an improvement over the Turanzas. Until you try the TL with decent tires you can't really evaluate it against the competition.
Torque steer with the 6MT is noticeable, but not a problem for a daily driver. I don't plan to track my TL, so I am willing to accept a little bit of performance compromise for the content and all-weather drivability that it brings to the table.
I am getting rid of an E36 325i for the TL, which was more fun to drive but lacking the TL's comfort and versatility. I have another car for sporting purposes, so the need for a track-capable daily driver was absent.
Make sure you drive a car without the Bridgestone Turanza EL42 All-Season Tires. I have Blizzak LM22s on mine for the winter, and they handle as good or better in the dry than the Turanzas, with a massive improvement in the snow. In the summer I will be getting the 18/Yoko setup. A good all-season will also give an improvement over the Turanzas. Until you try the TL with decent tires you can't really evaluate it against the competition.
Torque steer with the 6MT is noticeable, but not a problem for a daily driver. I don't plan to track my TL, so I am willing to accept a little bit of performance compromise for the content and all-weather drivability that it brings to the table.
I am getting rid of an E36 325i for the TL, which was more fun to drive but lacking the TL's comfort and versatility. I have another car for sporting purposes, so the need for a track-capable daily driver was absent.
Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 12,177
Likes: 86
From: NYC/SF/Tokyo/HK
Re: View of perspective owner who is 80%committed
Originally posted by 04TLmayB
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
However, I do like to see how good G35 AWD is... it's too late... I believe the interior would still my issue.
Wish you get what you want soon... and, if the price is an issue, purchasing in the end of month may help...
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 130
Likes: 0
From: Boston, MA
I am not an '04 owner, but when I was working for Clair Acura I drove quite a few. It was one of the best sedans I've ever driven (only sedans much more expensive such as the Infiniti M45 and BMW M5 are more fun). If I had the cash to buy one, I'd go right out and order a Redondo Red/Ebony Leather/Navi/5AT right now. The FWD does create some torque steer, but IMO it's not as bad as the Infiniti I35. Hands down, the TL blows everything else in its price class out of the water. Lexus' ES330 can't hold a candle to it. I've been in a few G35s and haven't noticed the lack of interior quality you refer to, but I suppose it's kind of a subjective thing...
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Cruisin'
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Colorado
04TLmayB response
I have placed my deposit on a 6-speed manual TL which has a delivery date scheduled for January 5th or sooner. I cannot wait for this car to arrive, and in my opinion the 6-speed manual absolutely MAKES this car.
Before making my decision, I drove the Audi A4 3.0 Quattro, BMW 325Xi, and both auto & 6speed TL's. The TL has by far the best (snick-snick-snickity) manual transmission of these three cars. The clutch and shifter work very smoothly and seamlessly together.
From your 04TLmayB quote above:
""""So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++""""
...I believe you will very impressed when you have the opportunity to take a 6-speed manual TL for a test drive. My second round of test drives in the TL, I concentrated on looking for any torque steer presence to manifest itself. The ONLY time that I experienced torque steer in the 6-speed model was when accelerating from a stop in first gear while simultaneously cranking the wheel hard and making a 90° turn.
You mentioned above that you like to take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas (not floor the car) as you begin to straighten out. I got the opportunity to do this in all the cars I mentioned above on back-to-back test drives. The turns that I took where marked 25mph turns and I took them at around twice that value in second gear while FLOORING the throttle as I exited each turn. The 6-speed TL handled like it was "on rails" in this scenario (zero...zip...nada torque steer was perceived).
The amazing thing about all the test drives was that I came away feeling like the TL handled very nearly as neutral as the all wheel drive cars did. The major difference was the TL's significant horsepower advantage over the other cars pasted a permanent smile all over my face....and the rest is history!
Before making my decision, I drove the Audi A4 3.0 Quattro, BMW 325Xi, and both auto & 6speed TL's. The TL has by far the best (snick-snick-snickity) manual transmission of these three cars. The clutch and shifter work very smoothly and seamlessly together.
From your 04TLmayB quote above:
""""So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++""""
...I believe you will very impressed when you have the opportunity to take a 6-speed manual TL for a test drive. My second round of test drives in the TL, I concentrated on looking for any torque steer presence to manifest itself. The ONLY time that I experienced torque steer in the 6-speed model was when accelerating from a stop in first gear while simultaneously cranking the wheel hard and making a 90° turn.
You mentioned above that you like to take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas (not floor the car) as you begin to straighten out. I got the opportunity to do this in all the cars I mentioned above on back-to-back test drives. The turns that I took where marked 25mph turns and I took them at around twice that value in second gear while FLOORING the throttle as I exited each turn. The 6-speed TL handled like it was "on rails" in this scenario (zero...zip...nada torque steer was perceived).
The amazing thing about all the test drives was that I came away feeling like the TL handled very nearly as neutral as the all wheel drive cars did. The major difference was the TL's significant horsepower advantage over the other cars pasted a permanent smile all over my face....and the rest is history!
Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 12,177
Likes: 86
From: NYC/SF/Tokyo/HK
Re: 04TLmayB response
Originally posted by cstls
I have placed my deposit on a 6-speed manual TL which has a delivery date scheduled for January 5th or sooner. I cannot wait for this car to arrive, and in my opinion the 6-speed manual absolutely MAKES this car.
Before making my decision, I drove the Audi A4 3.0 Quattro, BMW 325Xi, and both auto & 6speed TL's. The TL has by far the best (snick-snick-snickity) manual transmission of these three cars. The clutch and shifter work very smoothly and seamlessly together.
From your 04TLmayB quote above:
""""So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++""""
...I believe you will very impressed when you have the opportunity to take a 6-speed manual TL for a test drive. My second round of test drives in the TL, I concentrated on looking for any torque steer presence to manifest itself. The ONLY time that I experienced torque steer in the 6-speed model was when accelerating from a stop in first gear while simultaneously cranking the wheel hard and making a 90?turn.
You mentioned above that you like to take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas (not floor the car) as you begin to straighten out. I got the opportunity to do this in all the cars I mentioned above on back-to-back test drives. The turns that I took where marked 25mph turns and I took them at around twice that value in second gear while FLOORING the throttle as I exited each turn. The 6-speed TL handled like it was "on rails" in this scenario.
The amazing thing about all the test drives was that I came away feeling like the TL handled very nearly as neutral as the all wheel drive cars did. The major difference was the TL's significant horsepower advantage over the other cars pasted a permanent smile all over my face....and the rest is history!
I have placed my deposit on a 6-speed manual TL which has a delivery date scheduled for January 5th or sooner. I cannot wait for this car to arrive, and in my opinion the 6-speed manual absolutely MAKES this car.
Before making my decision, I drove the Audi A4 3.0 Quattro, BMW 325Xi, and both auto & 6speed TL's. The TL has by far the best (snick-snick-snickity) manual transmission of these three cars. The clutch and shifter work very smoothly and seamlessly together.
From your 04TLmayB quote above:
""""So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++""""
...I believe you will very impressed when you have the opportunity to take a 6-speed manual TL for a test drive. My second round of test drives in the TL, I concentrated on looking for any torque steer presence to manifest itself. The ONLY time that I experienced torque steer in the 6-speed model was when accelerating from a stop in first gear while simultaneously cranking the wheel hard and making a 90?turn.
You mentioned above that you like to take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas (not floor the car) as you begin to straighten out. I got the opportunity to do this in all the cars I mentioned above on back-to-back test drives. The turns that I took where marked 25mph turns and I took them at around twice that value in second gear while FLOORING the throttle as I exited each turn. The 6-speed TL handled like it was "on rails" in this scenario.
The amazing thing about all the test drives was that I came away feeling like the TL handled very nearly as neutral as the all wheel drive cars did. The major difference was the TL's significant horsepower advantage over the other cars pasted a permanent smile all over my face....and the rest is history!
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
From: California
I've been car shopping too and so far I am leaning towards the new TL also! Here's my experiences....
Test drove:
Acura TL (Manual, Auto)
Saab 9-3
Mercedes C320, E500 (even drove an S-Class - what the heck)
Audi A6
Tried To Test Drive Volvo's S60R (Read below...)
Personal Conclusions...
Saab 9-3:
Damn, I loved this car! Looks (in my opinion) beat just about all '04 cars. The 9-3 was quick and I was impressed. BUT after being told by the salesman that it doesn't have Navigation and after going home to do more research, I found out that the actual 0-60 mph & 1/4 mile results were much slower than it's competition. I was disappointed. Though the car felt faster. Crossed off my list. Next.
Mercedes C320, E500, S500:
What's not to love about a Benz right! Well, while test driving the C320, my girlfriend was in the front passenger seat, salesman in the back seat. I pressed the pedal to the floor and after a HUGE lag, the car still barely got going. I turned to my girlfriend (while flooring it still) and said, this is all the way to the floor. She looked at me (mind you, she doesn't know a damn thing about cars) and said, "that's it?" I told the salesman I did not like this car AT ALL! I felt like I was in my civic but thousands of dollars more! Now the E500 is a different story. I love this car but it's not in the Acura TL class so it's apples to oranges. However, I will save more money and down the road when I'm older, I plan to buy the E55 AMG. Now that's a lot of car!
Audi A6:
Disappointing! I originally did the research on the A4. When I got to the lot, my girlfriend and I were surprised to see and feel how cramped it was. It felt like I was sitting in my civic! So I didn't even test drive this car. I went straight for the A6 (2003 model) and yes, it was roomier but driving it was very boring, it didn't seem fast at all! The Saab 9-3 felt faster and probably is. ? Plus, in the 2003 model navigation wasn't an option and the 2004 model is just too expensive (I feel) for an Audi. Plus the '04's have that stupid pod on top of the car for the On-star and it looks really stupid whereas the Acura TL is smaller and inconspicuous. So Audi is now off my list. However, I did like the look of the car overall.
Volvo S60R:
Now this car I actually didn't test drive. Oh, I went down to the dealership with my friend (not my girlfriend) this time. I received the ABSOLUTE WORST treatment by a car salesman. I know...they don't have the best reps to begin with but even this guy was ridiculous! To make a long story short (as this thread is getting too long) I ended up leaving the dealership, as they forced a credit form on me to sign in order to test drive the car. I think it's b/c my friend and I look younger, they didn't think I could afford the car and was just looking to joy-ride it, but I'm 27 and he's 28. ??? Anyways, I ended up writing Volvo Corp about the whole situation and they never replied back. Oh, I got the infamous "auto reply" from them but never heard back from a person. When I called (after two weeks later) and explained to them what had happened, both reps I talked to were rude and said they can't do anything since the dealerships are owned independently. NICE! I'm sure McDonald's Corp has better policies in place than this! I finally talked to the owner of the dealership and after explaining what had happened, even he agreed that his staff was over reacting. He said, "it's just an S60R I don't know why they acted like that?" After I told him I test drove the S-Class and the Benz salesman treated me with a lot more respect and that car is almost $100K!
I WILL NEVER OWN A VOLVO AND ENCOURAGE ANYONE THINKING OF BUYING ONE....DON'T!
So now having test driven the Acura TL, I love it! Plenty of room and a price that just can't be beat. Not to mention, not only does it have Navigation but the damn thing talks to you too! My girlfriend got jealous as she sensed I was flirting with the voice Navigation system. LOL! So that's my take. I still plan on test driving a BMW and the new Jag but to me, BMW...every spoiled little rich teenager is driving one and the Jag just seems to be an old guys car. No offense!
I think the new TL will hold me over until I'm ready to step up to the Mercedes E55 AMG!
Test drove:
Acura TL (Manual, Auto)
Saab 9-3
Mercedes C320, E500 (even drove an S-Class - what the heck)
Audi A6
Tried To Test Drive Volvo's S60R (Read below...)
Personal Conclusions...
Saab 9-3:
Damn, I loved this car! Looks (in my opinion) beat just about all '04 cars. The 9-3 was quick and I was impressed. BUT after being told by the salesman that it doesn't have Navigation and after going home to do more research, I found out that the actual 0-60 mph & 1/4 mile results were much slower than it's competition. I was disappointed. Though the car felt faster. Crossed off my list. Next.
Mercedes C320, E500, S500:
What's not to love about a Benz right! Well, while test driving the C320, my girlfriend was in the front passenger seat, salesman in the back seat. I pressed the pedal to the floor and after a HUGE lag, the car still barely got going. I turned to my girlfriend (while flooring it still) and said, this is all the way to the floor. She looked at me (mind you, she doesn't know a damn thing about cars) and said, "that's it?" I told the salesman I did not like this car AT ALL! I felt like I was in my civic but thousands of dollars more! Now the E500 is a different story. I love this car but it's not in the Acura TL class so it's apples to oranges. However, I will save more money and down the road when I'm older, I plan to buy the E55 AMG. Now that's a lot of car!
Audi A6:
Disappointing! I originally did the research on the A4. When I got to the lot, my girlfriend and I were surprised to see and feel how cramped it was. It felt like I was sitting in my civic! So I didn't even test drive this car. I went straight for the A6 (2003 model) and yes, it was roomier but driving it was very boring, it didn't seem fast at all! The Saab 9-3 felt faster and probably is. ? Plus, in the 2003 model navigation wasn't an option and the 2004 model is just too expensive (I feel) for an Audi. Plus the '04's have that stupid pod on top of the car for the On-star and it looks really stupid whereas the Acura TL is smaller and inconspicuous. So Audi is now off my list. However, I did like the look of the car overall.
Volvo S60R:
Now this car I actually didn't test drive. Oh, I went down to the dealership with my friend (not my girlfriend) this time. I received the ABSOLUTE WORST treatment by a car salesman. I know...they don't have the best reps to begin with but even this guy was ridiculous! To make a long story short (as this thread is getting too long) I ended up leaving the dealership, as they forced a credit form on me to sign in order to test drive the car. I think it's b/c my friend and I look younger, they didn't think I could afford the car and was just looking to joy-ride it, but I'm 27 and he's 28. ??? Anyways, I ended up writing Volvo Corp about the whole situation and they never replied back. Oh, I got the infamous "auto reply" from them but never heard back from a person. When I called (after two weeks later) and explained to them what had happened, both reps I talked to were rude and said they can't do anything since the dealerships are owned independently. NICE! I'm sure McDonald's Corp has better policies in place than this! I finally talked to the owner of the dealership and after explaining what had happened, even he agreed that his staff was over reacting. He said, "it's just an S60R I don't know why they acted like that?" After I told him I test drove the S-Class and the Benz salesman treated me with a lot more respect and that car is almost $100K!
I WILL NEVER OWN A VOLVO AND ENCOURAGE ANYONE THINKING OF BUYING ONE....DON'T!
So now having test driven the Acura TL, I love it! Plenty of room and a price that just can't be beat. Not to mention, not only does it have Navigation but the damn thing talks to you too! My girlfriend got jealous as she sensed I was flirting with the voice Navigation system. LOL! So that's my take. I still plan on test driving a BMW and the new Jag but to me, BMW...every spoiled little rich teenager is driving one and the Jag just seems to be an old guys car. No offense!
I think the new TL will hold me over until I'm ready to step up to the Mercedes E55 AMG!
Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 12,177
Likes: 86
From: NYC/SF/Tokyo/HK
Originally posted by Nickerz
Got an order yet?
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
From: California
Hey rets,
No I don't have an order in yet. I'm very anxious though. I've been reading a very interesting thread...
"From a Dealer guy..Dan at Keyes Acura"
I may consider buying from this guy Dan, even though I'm 3 1/2 hours away.?
My plans are to wait to buy a car until after January. I own my own business and am having to purchase some new equipment which will be pricy, so when this settles down, I'll be putting in my order! Can't wait though. All these threads make me want to buy my car now. Especially since Acura is having a special lease program going now in December. I think it's $487 per month with a lease now!
No I don't have an order in yet. I'm very anxious though. I've been reading a very interesting thread...
"From a Dealer guy..Dan at Keyes Acura"
I may consider buying from this guy Dan, even though I'm 3 1/2 hours away.?
My plans are to wait to buy a car until after January. I own my own business and am having to purchase some new equipment which will be pricy, so when this settles down, I'll be putting in my order! Can't wait though. All these threads make me want to buy my car now. Especially since Acura is having a special lease program going now in December. I think it's $487 per month with a lease now!
Moderator Alumnus
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 12,177
Likes: 86
From: NYC/SF/Tokyo/HK
Originally posted by Nickerz
My plans are to wait to buy a car until after January. I own my own business and am having to purchase some new equipment which will be pricy, so when this settles down, I'll be putting in my order! Can't wait though. All these threads make me want to buy my car now. Especially since Acura is having a special lease program going now in December. I think it's $487 per month with a lease now!
My plans are to wait to buy a car until after January. I own my own business and am having to purchase some new equipment which will be pricy, so when this settles down, I'll be putting in my order! Can't wait though. All these threads make me want to buy my car now. Especially since Acura is having a special lease program going now in December. I think it's $487 per month with a lease now!
Usually the end of the month is the best time to strike a deal for who knows well what they need. I believe you would get something very good and find all the leverages to get a deal from him.
Don't be scared away by those fearful defects, vibration, or other issues. TL is still very good vehicle.
Good luck...
Racer
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 375
Likes: 0
From: Toronto, Canada
Re: View of perspective owner who is 80%committed
Originally posted by 04TLmayB
Been lurking for the past month trying to get unbiased opinions about the TL .... It appears that the TL is the best compromise out there for me.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on...
Been lurking for the past month trying to get unbiased opinions about the TL .... It appears that the TL is the best compromise out there for me.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on...
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 844
Likes: 0
From: Beverly Hills
I think everyone else covered the bases, except perhaps this one...if you want the navi you may have to wait for the color/interior you want. Have you looked into this yet?
I think you will be very happy with the TL, and just let me reiterate that torque steer in the five speed is really a non-issue in the majority of driving you will be doing. I love mine. I drove most of the cars you considered, and arrived at the same conclusions.
Good luck.
I think you will be very happy with the TL, and just let me reiterate that torque steer in the five speed is really a non-issue in the majority of driving you will be doing. I love mine. I drove most of the cars you considered, and arrived at the same conclusions.
Good luck.
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 158
Likes: 0
From: bloomfield.ct
beg to differ. torque steer is there on 6mt even driving normally. plus it gets worse when you get on the car, going through the gears. obviously less of problem on auto trans. down side of high hp fwd. and say all you want does not handle like rwd.
Racer
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 481
Likes: 0
From: New Jersey
Re: View of perspective owner who is 80%committed
Originally posted by 04TLmayB
Been lurking for the past month trying to get unbiased opinions about the TL and from consensus I have formed some. I currently own a 95 540i 6 speed and my lease is up in 5 months on my toy-a 00 BMW M roadster and then I will sell the 540 and get a new car (non lease). I would never have considered a FWD car until this winter where obviously I can't drive the M and the BMW can't make it up the incline in my long driveway (new house this yr)) Being 55 yrs old I am way past my car can beat your car and my current priorities are stick, 4 doors, acceleration, handling, navigation, AWD, and have a feeling of luxury as I want to stay under 45K. It appears that the TL is the best compromise out there for me.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on... so I gotta compromise somewhere. Unfortunately there is no AWD TL and if and when one comes out it will probably be automatic.
So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++
Based upon what I read here my guess is that is will be barely
noticeable-unlike the Car/Driver review where they really pushed the cars in the turns and my guess is that the posters here that complain about torque steer probably push their cars more than I intend to.
Anyhow this is an excellent forum and I look forward to sharing some views and learning more about the car from those who own them.
Been lurking for the past month trying to get unbiased opinions about the TL and from consensus I have formed some. I currently own a 95 540i 6 speed and my lease is up in 5 months on my toy-a 00 BMW M roadster and then I will sell the 540 and get a new car (non lease). I would never have considered a FWD car until this winter where obviously I can't drive the M and the BMW can't make it up the incline in my long driveway (new house this yr)) Being 55 yrs old I am way past my car can beat your car and my current priorities are stick, 4 doors, acceleration, handling, navigation, AWD, and have a feeling of luxury as I want to stay under 45K. It appears that the TL is the best compromise out there for me.
The Volvo S60R fits the bill on paper but just lacks pizzazz inside and I don't like turbos.
The G35 is RWD and cheapo interior but I bet it handles and moves better than the TL.
The Audi A4 has a bogus navi and lacks power but the AWD is tempting and it has a luxury feel. The A6 still has the bogus navi, is dated, and costs 10K more than the TL.
The Mercedes C class has no power and the E class AWD is automatic.
The X type Jag lacks power and is just too soft.
On and on... so I gotta compromise somewhere. Unfortunately there is no AWD TL and if and when one comes out it will probably be automatic.
So compromise I must and it appears the TL is the car but I have not tried to track down a 6 spd to drive-which I will do before I commit to buy. But the only thing that will prevent me from getting the TL is torque steer that bothers me during the test drive. My driving style is not hairpin turns with the car floored but I do like to occasionally take a turn sharply in second and hit the gas somewhat aggressively, not floor the car, as I begin to straighten out. If the wheel turns in my hand at that point it will be a no go. My biggest charge in driving is really hitting the gas in straightaways and feeling instant response. I really enjoy shifting gears regardless of traffic, want the navi as a cool toy and I like room in my cars and hate the feel of chintzyness on the dials. The TL's interior is A+++
Based upon what I read here my guess is that is will be barely
noticeable-unlike the Car/Driver review where they really pushed the cars in the turns and my guess is that the posters here that complain about torque steer probably push their cars more than I intend to.
Anyhow this is an excellent forum and I look forward to sharing some views and learning more about the car from those who own them.
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