1998 Acura Cl in Johnson City, TN - $4,900

With solid performance and a remarkably high level of standard equipment, the Acura CL coupe strikes a balance between sportiness and sophistication. In fact, the only factory option available on either CL model is the Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System.

Combining a powerful engine, impressive handling and a comprehensive list of standard features in a luxury coupe package, the CL was the first Acura model designed, engineered and assembled exclusively in the United States. Available in the 3.2 CL and the high-performance CL Type-S models, the CL is manufactured by Honda at its Marysville, Ohio, assembly plant.

The Acura coupe derives its power from a refined 3.2L 24-valve VTEC engine mated to a five-speed automatic gearbox featuring Sequential SportShift. This enhancement gives the driver the ability to select gears manually or enjoy the benefits of a fully automatic transmission. The wide-ratio five-speed gearbox provides quick acceleration while reducing engine rpm at cruising speed, resulting in increased fuel efficiency and reduced engine noise.

On the road, the Acura coupe delivers a velvety smooth ride and handling. Control and performance are very manageable, never feeling out of control at speed. A rigid unit-body structure incorporates isolated front and rear subframes. A four-wheel independent double wishbone suspension with stabilizer bars and a front shock tower bar is coupled to the rigid structure to give the Acura CL its above average handling and performance.

The CL Type-S incorporates additional suspension enhancements -- firmer springs, increased damping rates and larger rear stabilizer bar for even greater cornering capability. Large diameter, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock combine with high-performance V-rated all season Michelin radial tires -- P205/60R16 on CL; P215/50R17 on CL Type-S -- to further enhance handling.

Inside the cabin, a world-class environment greets driver and passengers. The bank-vault build of this Acura yields a whisper-quiet interior, even in a strong cross wind. The outward view of the road, displays and controls, and seating, are all topnotch. The armrest in the center console is very comfortable. Rear seat passengers enjoy good leg room with enough comfort for two adults. A power walk-in driver seat facilitates entry/exit to the rear seating area.



Ratings & specifications

Engine performance numbers are: CL -- 225 hp at 5,600 rpm and 216 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm; CL Type-S -- 260 hp at 6,100 rpm and 232 lb-ft of torque at 3,500-5,500 rpm. EPA fuel economy numbers are 19 city/29 highway for both engines using premium unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easy to reach but not consistently marked.

Standard safety/security features include dual front airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, side-impact door beams, traction control, Xenon high intensity discharge (HID) headlights, remote keyless entry with panic alarm, theft deterrent system with electronic immobilizer and illuminated anti-entrapment trunk release. CL Type-S adds vehicle stability assist.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2002 Acura CL coupe starts at $28,030 for the CL and $30,380 for the CL Type-S. The Acura Navigation System adds $2,000. Destination charge adds $480. Dealers report good supplies of the Acura coupe. There are no rebates.

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