How much horsepower does a 1999 Acura TL 3.2 have?
The 1999 Acura TL 3.2 delivers 225 horsepower.
In 1999, the TL used a 3.2-liter V6 (engine code J32A1) that Acura rated at 225 hp and about 217 lb-ft of torque. Automaker ratings follow SAE net horsepower standards, and real-world outputs can vary with maintenance, altitude, and drivetrain condition. This article explains the figure, what it means for performance, and how ratings can differ by market and testing method.
Engine and Power Profile
At the heart of the 1999 TL 3.2 is a 3.2-liter V6 engine that was shared with related models in the Acura/Honda lineup. The official US specification for this year’s TL lists:
- Engine: 3.2 L V6 (J32A1)
- Horsepower: 225 hp (SAE net)
- Torque: 217 lb-ft
These figures reflect the standardized power output used by Acura for the model’s 1999 release. Real-world performance can vary due to maintenance, refueling quality, climate, and other conditions.
Context, Variations, and How It Holds Up Today
While 225 hp is the official rating for the US-spec 1999 TL 3.2, numbers can vary slightly in other markets or when measured with different testing methodologies. Dyno results from independent tests or older publications may show small differences, but the SAE net specification remains the baseline reference for this model year.
Fans and owners may notice that performance feels different based on the car’s condition, exhaust system, and drivetrain wear. As with any aging vehicle, upkeep—such as air filtration, fuel delivery, and spark maintenance—plays a significant role in how the horsepower figure translates to real-world acceleration and response.
Summary
The 1999 Acura TL 3.2 is officially rated at 225 horsepower and about 217 lb-ft of torque from its 3.2-liter V6 engine (J32A1) under SAE net standards. The figure is a benchmark for this model year, though actual performance can vary with maintenance, environment, and testing methods. In the broader context of late-1990s sedans, the TL 3.2 offered a competitive balance of power and refinement for its class.
