http://www.acura-cl.com/ubb/Forum1/HTML/000768.html

 

I don't think there's much to compare, it depends what you want. If price is no object then the answer is obvious. But most of the time price does matter.

For example, Camry's always cost more than Maximas used to the tune of 1 yr. You choose between a 60K mile '97 Toyota or a 45K mile '98 SE. For everyone on this board it's a no-brainer. But there is another camp that would choose the '97 and they have legitimate reasons.

I think the Maxima is above-average but I do aspire to more, and as I've said maybe another 11 months or so when my car is 4. Yesterday after dinner 2 BMW's racing in the rain cut me off bad, a silver 528 and a red 325 coupe (both new gens). But I was with a date and hence it didn't bother me one bit. As a matter of fact I told the lady that I'd like to get either one, depending on the finances next year. She agreed they are both good-looking cars, but she doesn't have a problem with the Max either. Somehow when we're with a nice lady we keep our minds open, and I think the CL-S vs. Maxima should be the same way. Comes down to what you want to spend, but aside from that there's not much to debate.

 

Wow, that looks like a sane debate!

I think a CL-S should be faster than a Maxima auto, and even AT BEST with a Maxima 5-spd. The top end, 100+ I think the 5th gen Maxima might be faster, but the 225hp CL and TL already have a pretty flat torque curve while the Maxima's power advantage increases slightly...

The gearing in the CL-S (if it's the same as the TL) could be a problem though...

I don't really know from experience though. I just know I wiped the floor with an Integra LS in the `00 3.2TL with 5-people in the car from 70 to 100mph (top of 3rd).

 

CL-S ~$30,000
Maxima GXE 5spd ~$21,000 (SE ~$24,000)

If the 5spd GXE doesn't beat the CL-S, it will give it a damn close race (and better handling) for ~$9,000 less...

 

Many factors....

Also....the tl-s is a PIG. Its like 3500 pounds.....so cancel out that 5sp auto....but it does have 260hp. See my point....there are tons of variables.

 

Yep, slim I think has the right point. The maximas are being discounted like crazy(as usual) but the Acura is still 30k. So similarly equipped cars will have about a $5k price difference. But then again, you can't get HID in the Maxima. You gotta give the nod to the Acura for resale, hid and navagation. But give the Maxima the nod for value. Handling, well if the maxima does handle better, then I'm sorry to say BOTH must not be that great. Maximas were never really noted for their handling powers. Don't believe me? Try driving a stock GSR.