2003 Acura CL vs. 1989 TVR 400
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR 400 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 TVR 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR 400 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Acura CL. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR 400 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 430 kg more than 1989 TVR 400.
Because 1989 TVR 400 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 TVR 400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1989 TVR 400 (366 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura CL. (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1989 TVR 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura CL. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1989 TVR 400 has manual transmission. 1989 TVR 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura CL | 1989 TVR 400 | |
| Make | Acura | TVR |
| Model | CL | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2420 mm |
