Acura TL SH-AWD Manual Quarter Mile

The Acura TL SH-AWD with manual transmission is a high-performance luxury sedan featuring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, 3.7L V6 engine producing 305 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, and advanced torque vectoring technology. This guide covers performance specifications, quarter mile testing data, driving techniques, modifications, and maintenance for optimal acceleration performance.

1. Performance Specifications 2. Quarter Mile Testing 3. Launch Techniques 4. Transmission Operation 5. SH-AWD System 6. Performance Modifications 7. Maintenance Requirements 8. Tire Selection 9. Data Logging 10. Troubleshooting

Performance Specifications

Key performance components: 3.7L J37A4 V6 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, SH-AWD system, limited-slip differential, performance suspension.

Component	Specification
Engine	3.7L V6, 305 hp @ 6200 rpm, 273 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual with short-throw shifter
Drivetrain	SH-AWD with torque vectoring
Weight	Approximately 3900 lbs
Power-to-Weight	0.078 hp/lb
Final Drive Ratio	4.437:1
Redline	7000 rpm

Quarter Mile Testing

Standard quarter mile performance data for stock configuration.

Best Stock Time: 13.8 seconds @ 102 mph
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds
60-foot Time: 2.1 seconds
Trap Speed: 100-103 mph
Optimal Shift Points: 6800-7000 rpm

NOTE! Performance varies with temperature, elevation, and track conditions. Use premium 91+ octane fuel.

Launch Techniques

Proper launch procedure for optimal quarter mile times.

Warm up tires and brakes: Drive moderately for 10-15 minutes
Disable VSA: Press and hold VSA button until indicator lights
Launch RPM: 3000-3500 rpm for best traction
Clutch Engagement: Smooth but quick release
Throttle Application: Progressive to avoid wheel spin

WARNING! Excessive clutch drops can damage drivetrain components. Monitor transmission temperature.

Transmission Operation

Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.266, 2nd: 1.888, 3rd: 1.321, 4th: 1.034, 5th: 0.825, 6th: 0.657
Shift Points: 1-2: 38 mph, 2-3: 62 mph, 3-4: 89 mph, 4-5: 114 mph
Shift Technique: Quick, firm shifts without forcing
Rev Matching: Recommended for downshifts
Fluid Type: Honda MTF or equivalent synthetic

SH-AWD System

The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provides torque vectoring for improved acceleration and cornering.

Operation: Distributes torque front/rear (90/10 to 30/70) and left/right rear wheels (100/0 to 0/100). During hard acceleration, system biases torque rearward for better traction. Torque vectoring accelerates outer rear wheel in corners.

Performance Benefits: Improved traction off the line, reduced wheel spin, enhanced corner exit acceleration.

Performance Modifications

Common modifications for improved quarter mile times.

Cold Air Intake: +5-10 hp, improved throttle response
Exhaust System: +10-15 hp, weight reduction
ECU Tune: +15-25 hp, optimized shift points
Lightweight Wheels: Reduced rotational mass
Sticky Tires: Improved 60-foot times

Tip: Start with tires and intake for best cost/performance ratio.

Maintenance Requirements

Essential maintenance for consistent quarter mile performance.

Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000 miles or 50 track passes
Rear Differential Fluid: Change every 15,000 miles with hard use
Brake Fluid: High-temperature DOT 4 recommended
Engine Oil: Synthetic 5W-30, change every 5,000 miles
Clutch Inspection: Check every 10,000 miles with aggressive use

WARNING! Neglecting fluid changes can lead to expensive drivetrain repairs.

Tire Selection

Optimal tire choices for quarter mile performance.

Tire Type	60-foot Time	Quarter Mile Improvement
Summer Performance	2.2-2.3 sec	Stock performance
Extreme Performance	2.0-2.1 sec	-0.2 to -0.3 sec
Drag Radials	1.8-1.9 sec	-0.4 to -0.6 sec
Recommended Size	245/40R19	Optimal grip/clearance

Data Logging

Monitoring performance metrics for improvement.

Essential Data Points: 0-60 time, 60-foot time, trap speed, shift points, intake air temperature, coolant temperature. Recommended Tools: OBD-II scanner with performance logging, GPS-based performance meter, onboard video with data overlay.

Troubleshooting

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Poor 60-foot times	Launch technique/tires	Practice launches; upgrade to stickier tires
Missed shifts	Transmission fluid/worn synchros	Change transmission fluid; adjust shift technique
Wheel hop	Suspension bushings/tires	Install stiffer suspension components; proper tire pressure
Overheating	Cooling system/track use	Upgrade radiator; monitor temperatures between runs
Clutch slippage	Worn clutch/aggressive use	Replace with performance clutch kit

Professional Service: Consult Acura dealership or performance specialist for major issues.

Technical Support: Acura Client Services 1-800-382-2238