Acura TL or Chrysler 300

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Old 07-05-2004, 07:09 PM
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Acura TL or Chrysler 300

Wassup all of you people
Im 21 just graduated from Yale and as a gift i am to get a car. The TL was on my mind for a while but lately the new 300C has gotten me confused.
Wat amazes me is that it only starts at 23K and change.
Tho i am a pretty big guy and the 300C is quite bigger and cheaper i might just go for it also knowing that i can get the 300C with a 5.7 V8 340hp with all the options i want for 35K and change and the TL would just be a bit more.

I just wanted to know wat u guys thought about this crazy idea of mine

CHRYSLER 300
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:20 PM
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These boards aren't the place to ask, everyone will say TL :P

Anyway, what age did you start college at? Did you go for 4 years or take classes during summers? 21 is early.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:22 PM
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If you want a car that breaks down all the time, go with the Chrysler product.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:25 PM
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The 300 starts at 23k but when you get it loaded like a TL it is in the 30's. From what I have read the V6 is not that great and the V8 only gets 17 mpg. The 300 is growing on me a little but I still can't get past the large front grandpa grill.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:26 PM
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Originally Posted by GaleForce
These boards aren't the place to ask, everyone will say TL :P .
TL is better, Chrysler is worserer.

Originally Posted by GaleForce
Anyway, what age did you start college at? Did you go for 4 years or take classes during summers? 21 is early.
From the writing style and grammar, I would say neither. Wat do u think?
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:31 PM
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If you even have to ask the question, you're Chrysler material.



In the future, you may want to refrain from mentioning the school that gave you a diploma.

BJ
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:32 PM
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Originally Posted by Ron A
TL is better, Chrysler is worserer.


From the writing style and grammar, I would say neither. Wat do u think?
I was thinking the same thing.

The 300C is cool, but I also believe more expensive once you add V8, Navi, xenon, etc.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:34 PM
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TO GaleForce yea i started college at 17 and took summer classes so i could finish as fast as i could. I hate school but after all it pays back.
ANYWAY i love the front grill of that car, and my mom owned the Chrysler minivan n now Mercedes ML. They are both general motor cars and she's never had a single problem with those cars, they are well bult...
Im still confused and its pissing me off

It actually comes to a bit less than 36K wit xenon, moonroof, superior sound system, the whole leather package, and 18" and the park assist thing
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:39 PM
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A 300C in 5 years will be less expensive than a new Civic. Then there is the terrific quality control at Daimler-Chrysler; even the Mercs are crap these days. They cannot keep their parts suppliers QC high enough to make a reliable car, so how do you expect Chrysler can? I looked at the 300C Hemi and the Dodge Magnum, and I ended up here. I voted with my dollars.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:40 PM
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BJ, u r relentless- RELAX

Congrats on graduating Yale

I graduated BU at age 21
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:49 PM
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The 300C has a bit more character to boot. But the TL is more balanced and the 300C interior suck (some details say '70s). I had the occasion to test drive a few 300C/Magnum on a close circuit. Very impressive handling for the size; the ESP works perfectly. I just hoped for more growling from the V8.
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Old 07-05-2004, 07:57 PM
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It's funny that this topic should come up. I currently own a Passat which is at the body shop (door dent) and am in a 300C rental car. I'm also planning on leasing a new TL in the near future for whatever that's worth.

Here are my thoughts on the 300C:

Pros:
-SOLID body structure, not a creak or rattle to be found even over the worst of roads (then again it only has 398 miles on it)
-Well damped body motions for a large sedan w/ a noticable lack of brake dive.
-Smooth and powerful V8. Aside from the MDS (Multi-Displacement System), the "Hemi" V8 is rather low tech as most other American V8 engines. Irregardless, it is silky smooth.
-Comfortable front seats
-Very solid doors. They close w/ a very deep "thunk"
-Low wind/road noise
-Good cabin lighting
-Nice front styling (IMO). While going out to the garage I noticed the chiseled wheel well arches look particularly good under lighting.


Cons:
-The rear end is just too plain. The exhaust tips need to be about 1/2"-1" bigger and the rear bumper and trunk lid could use some more detailing.
-No grab handle to close trunk lid. Chrysler went through the trouble of including non-intrusive Euro-style hinges, but messed up something as simple as a grab handle?!? The only way to close the trunk is by getting fingerprints on the trunk lid.
-Rear headrests do not articulate and are part of the back seat (ala previous generation TL)
-Some cheap interior bits. The plastic silver trim in particular.
-Somewhat bland to drive. It's nice, powerful and refined, but it doesn't beg you to drive it. It's almost Lexus-like in that regard.
-Difficult to park due to the high beltline and size of vehicle.

Overall I would have to say that the TL and 300C are obviously quite different vehicles and I prefer the TL due to it's nicer interior, slightly sportier handling (in spite of FWD) and more nimble size. With that said, the 300C is a damn good car and it's the first time I've been impressed by an American luxo-sedan in a long time. As for quality concerns, their new head of Quality Control (for the past couple years) used to work for Toyota. Hopefully he can work some magic at Chrysler.


....Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I really like the key. It has the keyless entry buttons integrated into the key like the Accord. Why doesn't the TL get this style key??
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Old 07-05-2004, 08:39 PM
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I would get the Chrysler with the HEMI looks like a fun luxury car.
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Old 07-05-2004, 08:47 PM
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Just speaking from personal experience. I drove a dodge avenger for a little under 2 years before I picked up the accord I have now. Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep dealers are terrible people with rude service. Especially in Dallas I would say. Manual Chrysler / Dodge can go rot in hell. Can you sense any anger? In any case, best to go with the Acura TL.
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Old 07-05-2004, 08:53 PM
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It may look different, but it's still a Chrysler; same whore, different dress.

By the way, I guess that English classes are now optional at Yale.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:02 PM
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I hate the humungous front grill and the small looking side windows. I do however think the back end looks great. Oh yeah, there will NEVER be a Chrysler in my driveway.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:02 PM
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"ANYWAY i love the front grill of that car, and my mom owned the Chrysler minivan n now Mercedes ML. They are both general motor cars and she's never had a single problem with those cars, they are well bult."..quote by YungEl

Ya both General Motor's cars...hehe
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:04 PM
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I actually considered the 300C as an alternative to the TL.

I drove the 300C and Felt like I was borrowing my grandfather's car. (I'm 27)

The main difference I see is Luxury vs Sport Luxury. If you like driving a stick, moving through the gears, taking turns at speed, etc, then there is no decision here, get the TL.

If your getting an Automatic either way, you just want the luxury, and you dont "like" to drive, then the 300C might be a good choice.

Also, the NAV on the 300c is NO comparison to the TL. The 300c has a tiny screen, no voice control, etc. The Honda/Acura NAV is supposed to be one of the best OEM NAVs on the market from talking to people.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:04 PM
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Originally Posted by Ron A
TL is better, Chrysler is worserer.


From the writing style and grammar, I would say neither. Wat do u think?
Heh, I was kinda thinking the same thing. Never know though. My dad is in his forties and runs a successful business and when he's on AIM he uses "lol, thx, k," and doesn't bother with grammar really. Because, well, its the internet.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:27 PM
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I can't even compare the two...In my opinion the 300C is so freaking ugly. I can't imgine the 300C being better than 03 TL, less the 04. There is no comparison, except that it comes with a nice V8.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:30 PM
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The 300C will have as many or possibly LESS problems than the TL. Clearly, the TL has many build issues, PERIOD.
Both are HOT cars. The TL is selling well and so is the 300C. I'd get the 300C ONLY if it's the HEMI. The SRT-8 version is coming soon as well. Since both are made and designed here, I am comparing 2 American cars. The TL has the better interior and is a lot smaller. The 300C is beastly, roomier and just a great car too. The 300C is faster too.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:35 PM
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If you like recalls...

You'll love a 300. First one announced and there'll be more to follow.

http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/Edmont...03/523490.html

C'mon, f'ing up something as simple as battery cables? :sqnteek: Makes me cringe to think of what else is gonna go wrong.

Der technik, KAPUT...
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:48 PM
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Get the TL. I am currently going through a buyback on my 300C Hemi. I have a TL on order.

http://www.acura-tl.com/forums/showt...highlight=300c

http://www.acura-tl.com/forums/showt...highlight=300c

By the way, the 300 "C" is the Hemi version. The V6 models (standard and touring model) are what the rental car companies have.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:49 PM
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Grandpa took a look and compared the 300C to his favorite...




I, however would not own either one...
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:50 PM
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Go higher education!! Rah! Rah!

Originally Posted by varanelli
...by the way, I guess that English classes are now optional at Yale.
I am laughing out loud! I too, was thinking the same thing. I guess for many 'higher education' is just another means to an end.

{Thank goodness I did not graduate from a snobby, private school!
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:53 PM
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Originally Posted by kosh2258
You'll love a 300. First one announced and there'll be more to follow.

http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/Edmont...03/523490.html

C'mon, f'ing up something as simple as battery cables? :sqnteek: Makes me cringe to think of what else is gonna go wrong.

Der technik, KAPUT...
That is the first recall but there are FIVE TSB's out already.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:54 PM
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Originally Posted by Casper42
Also, the NAV on the 300c is NO comparison to the TL. The 300c has a tiny screen, no voice control, etc. The Honda/Acura NAV is supposed to be one of the best OEM NAVs on the market from talking to people.
True, the NAV system in the 300C doesn't have voice commands and the screen is smaller, but according to various sources it is actually made by the same maker of the Acura NAV system. Alpine, if I recall correctly.
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Old 07-05-2004, 09:58 PM
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Originally Posted by Radcliffe1
"ANYWAY i love the front grill of that car, and my mom owned the Chrysler minivan n now Mercedes ML. They are both general motor cars and she's never had a single problem with those cars, they are well bult."..quote by YungEl

Ya both General Motor's cars...hehe
Huh?? General Motors is GMC, Chevy, Cadillac, etc.

Diamler Chrysler is Mercedes Benz, Chrysler, Dodge
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Old 07-05-2004, 10:01 PM
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Originally Posted by jrcase
Get the TL. I am currently going through a buyback on my 300C Hemi. I have a TL on order.

http://www.acura-tl.com/forums/showt...highlight=300c

http://www.acura-tl.com/forums/showt...highlight=300c

By the way, the 300 "C" is the Hemi version. The V6 models (standard and touring model) are what the rental car companies have.

Ummm, not always. I have a 300C through Advantage Rent-a-Car. I've already popped the hood to take a look at the Hemi
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Old 07-05-2004, 10:04 PM
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Originally Posted by kosh2258
You'll love a 300. First one announced and there'll be more to follow.

http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/Edmont...03/523490.html

C'mon, f'ing up something as simple as battery cables? :sqnteek: Makes me cringe to think of what else is gonna go wrong.

Der technik, KAPUT...
No automaker is immune to recalls. Need I bring up the recently announced transmission recall on the TL? My '97 Civic and '98 CR-V both had recalls. Nissan has recalls, Toyotas have recalls, etc. Besides, I would rather have an automaker admit a problem and take action to quickly fix it instead of trying to cover it up or ignore it like I have seen Ford and VW/Audi do.
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Old 07-05-2004, 10:07 PM
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I love it how YungEl starts his thread out by
1) stating that he graduated from Yale, and
2) is 21..

Obviously, you'll need a car that makes up for your inferiority complex -- go w/ the hemi-V8, it'll smoke many more cars than even the 6MT TL .. it'll suit your, "complex."

Cheers.
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Old 07-05-2004, 10:11 PM
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There is no comparison unless the 300C has the Hemi. Price it loaded and the 300C is quite a bit more (with fewer options) than the TL, and don't expect any discounts. IMO the 300C does nothing as well as the TL except accelerate in a straight line. Drive them both, preferably back to back, and that will be apparent.
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Old 07-05-2004, 11:23 PM
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Don't forget to compare warranties and running costs (servicing) - the much-advertised Chrysler 7 year, 100K miles is ONLY for the powertrain. The full warranty is probably 3 years. You can buy an extended from Chrysler later, but compare prices on the internet. We just researched this for our Ram, and it's cheaper to buy online than from our local dealer.
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Old 07-05-2004, 11:52 PM
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I agree, poor grammar, they must have had to fill a quota to let you in! Anyhow, get the TL, enough said.
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Old 07-05-2004, 11:57 PM
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If you are at all concerned about resale value, buy a TL. Sell in a few years if you are not pleased and buy that 300c that is now 2 years old w/ thousands left in the bank
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Old 07-06-2004, 12:43 AM
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Originally Posted by PeterUbers
I love it how YungEl starts his thread out by
1) stating that he graduated from Yale, and
2) is 21..

Obviously, you'll need a car that makes up for your inferiority complex -- go w/ the hemi-V8, it'll smoke many more cars than even the 6MT TL .. it'll suit your, "complex."

Cheers.
Maybe we all wrongly assumed YungEl graduated from Yale University at New Haven, Connecticut. Maybe there's a Yale "School of Somesort" somewhere else in this country.
Aside from his atrocious English, I can't believe a Yale U. grad would think Chrysler and Mercedes are part of GM.
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Old 07-06-2004, 12:54 AM
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There is no comparison unless the 300C has the Hemi
I agree with this. It HAS to have the Hemi.
Don't forget is has cylinder deactivation as well. 340hp, 390lbs of torque. RWD. AWD will be offered next year.
All I'm saying is don't dismiss the 300C. It is a very impressive car.
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Old 07-06-2004, 07:21 AM
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congrats Yale grad!!

now, since your asking . . . despite Chrysler's quality history (they are improving). see the 300 headlights as quirky. They should wrap more around the front facia. This point alone makes me not want one in my garage. Go with the TL or BMW 5 series. Or . . . if you can wait scope out the Acura 05RL due out soon, or the BMW 4 series.
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Old 07-06-2004, 08:29 AM
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My wife (the consumate Domestic car hater) saw the 300M parked next to my Max and fell in love with it. IMO, the car is DEFINITELY more of a looker than the TL and it has performance to boot. (even the 6MT TL cant run with it). The style screams GANGSTA!!! (Not unlike the Infiniti M45.)

However, I wouldnt get it over the TL. I'd just feel better saying that I have an Acura TL in my garage than a Chrysler 300M.

$.02
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Old 07-06-2004, 08:29 AM
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Originally Posted by campIIIMAF
congrats Yale grad!!

now, since your asking . . . despite Chrysler's quality history (they are improving). see the 300 headlights as quirky. They should wrap more around the front facia. This point alone makes me not want one in my garage. Go with the TL or BMW 5 series. Or . . . if you can wait scope out the Acura 05RL due out soon, or the BMW 4 series.
His asking what?
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