The 2003 Acura CL is a luxury coupe featuring a 3.2L V6 engine producing 225 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, leather interior, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety features. Below are key sections covering performance, features, specifications, driving experience, maintenance, and ownership costs.
The 2003 Acura CL with manual transmission delivers responsive handling and smooth power delivery.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.2L V6 VTEC |
| Horsepower | 225 hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| 0-60 mph | 6.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph (electronically limited) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Suspension | 4-wheel independent double-wishbone |
| Brakes | 4-wheel disc with ABS |
| Steering | Power-assisted rack-and-pinion |
Premium styling with luxury amenities throughout the cabin.
NOTE: Optional navigation system available on Type-S models.
The manual transmission provides engaging driving dynamics with precise gear changes.
Handling: Responsive steering with minimal body roll in corners. The double-wishbone suspension provides excellent road feedback.
Comfort: Well-insulated cabin reduces road noise. Leather seats offer good support for long drives.
Performance: Strong mid-range torque makes passing effortless. VTEC system provides linear power delivery.
Recommended service intervals for optimal performance.
WARNING! Neglecting timing belt replacement can cause severe engine damage.
Average annual maintenance and operating expenses.
| Expense Type | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,200 - $1,800 |
| Fuel (15,000 miles) | $2,100 - $2,500 |
| Maintenance | $400 - $600 |
| Repairs | $300 - $500 |
| Depreciation | $1,500 - $2,000 |
Tip: Well-maintained examples retain value better.
Known problems and recommended solutions.
| Issue | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission grind | Difficulty shifting into 3rd gear | Replace transmission fluid; synchro repair if severe |
| Power steering leaks | Fluid leakage from rack | Replace power steering rack seals |
| Window regulators | Power window failure | Replace window regulator assembly |
| AC compressor | Compressor clutch failure | Replace AC compressor clutch or entire unit |
| Brake rotor warping | Vibration during braking | Replace with quality aftermarket rotors |
Comprehensive safety systems for occupant protection.
Safety Rating: 4-star NHTSA frontal crash test rating.
EPA estimates and real-world consumption.
| Driving Condition | MPG |
|---|---|
| City | 19 mpg |
| Highway | 29 mpg |
| Combined | 23 mpg |
| Real-world average | 21-25 mpg |
Note: Premium fuel required for optimal performance.
Depreciation trends and current market value.
Original MSRP: $29,900. Current value range: $4,000 - $8,000 depending on condition, mileage, and maintenance history.
Factors affecting value:
Compilation of owner experiences and satisfaction ratings.
| Aspect | Rating (out of 5) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4.5 | Strong V6, smooth shifting, responsive handling |
| Comfort | 4.0 | Supportive seats, quiet cabin, good ride quality |
| Reliability | 4.2 | Few major issues with proper maintenance |
| Fuel Economy | 3.5 | Average for class, premium fuel requirement |
| Overall Satisfaction | 4.3 | Excellent value for a luxury sports coupe |
Common Praise: Smooth manual transmission, comfortable highway cruiser, reliable when maintained.
Common Complaints: Premium fuel cost, limited rear seat space, aging technology features.