Is a 2004 Acura TL fast?
The 2004 Acura TL is fast enough to feel energetic in everyday driving, especially in the sportier Type-S trim, where acceleration and highway passing power stand out for a mid-size sedan from that era. The base TL is quick and refined, but the Type-S is the one that truly scratches the performance itch.
In this article, we examine what "fast" meant for the 2004 TL, compare the two trims on stock performance, and explore real-world factors that can affect how fast the car actually feels on the road. We’ll also discuss how the aging platform holds up in terms of speed and driving dynamics today.
Performance snapshot by trim
Performance figures for stock, unmodified examples from this generation vary with year, transmission, tires, and condition. The following numbers reflect typical, widely cited figures for the 2004 TL lineup in common configurations.
- 0-60 mph: TL Base around 7.0–7.5 seconds; TL Type-S around 5.7–6.0 seconds.
- Quarter-mile (approx): TL Base roughly 15.5–16.5 seconds; TL Type-S roughly 14.0–14.5 seconds.
- Character: The Type-S uses a higher-output engine and firmer suspension, delivering noticeably stronger mid-range punch and sharper handling compared with the base TL, which emphasizes refinement and smooth, usable power.
These figures illustrate a clear divide between the two trims: the Type-S is the enthusiast’s choice, offering genuinely brisk acceleration and a sportier feel, while the base TL remains competent and comfortable but not as quick on tap.
Understanding real-world speed
Stock numbers tell one part of the story, but real-world speed depends on several practical factors that can widen or narrow the gap between the two trims.
- Transmission choice and condition: A manual or performance-oriented automatic can influence launch times and shift responsiveness, affecting how quickly a driver can access the engine’s power.
- Tire grip and condition: Worn or degraded tires dramatically affect acceleration, braking, and cornering grip, which in turn shapes perceived speed.
- Vehicle weight and drivetrain condition: General wear, drivetrain friction, and added weight from occupants or cargo can reduce acceleration capability over time.
- Maintenance status: Spark plugs, air filters, fuel system components, and oxygen sensors influence engine efficiency and power output.
- Environmental factors: Temperature, altitude, humidity, and road surface all play a role in how fast the car actually accelerates.
In everyday driving, a well-maintained TL Type-S will feel noticeably quicker than a well-kept base TL, especially during overtakes or highway merges. However, aging components and tire choices can erase much of that advantage if measurements come from a car in less-than-ideal condition.
What buyers should know today
If speed matters in a used 2004 TL, the Type-S is the model to focus on. It delivers stronger acceleration and a more engaging driving experience, but it’s also the variant that tends to require more attentive maintenance due to its higher-performance hardware. The base TL remains a solid, refined sedan with adequate pace for daily driving, though it doesn’t deliver the same level of excitement as the Type-S.
Overall, the 2004 TL’s speed profile is representative of its era: it offers a meaningful boost in performance with the Type-S, while the base model prioritizes smoothness and everyday usability. Condition, maintenance history, and tire selection are key to preserving or enhancing its speed potential today.
Summary
In recap, the 2004 Acura TL is fast enough to feel lively, with the Type-S delivering genuine sport-sedan performance for its time. The base TL is respectable but not a standout performer. For buyers and owners, maintaining tires, engine health, and transmission behavior is crucial to preserving the car’s speed capabilities as it ages. Overall, the TL remains a balanced, engaging option in the compact-luxury segment from its era.
Is the 2004 Acura TL fast?
Yet the TL still managed to arrive at 60 in just 6.3 seconds. The quarter mile passes in 14.8 seconds at 96 miles-per-hour. And though competing sports sedans like the BMW 3-Series and Cadillac CTS feature rear-wheel-drive systems for handling tenacity, the front drive Acura TL proved nearly as nimble and quick.
What year to avoid Acura TL?
A: As per our guide above, the 2003 and 2005 model years are considered the worst Acura TLs due to the high number of consumer complaints.
Why are Acura TL so fast?
Engine Performance
One of the biggest reasons why so many drivers see the Acura TL as a reliable vehicle is because of its powerful performance. Its engine delivers as much as 305 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. On top of that, it's capable of reaching a speed of 60 mph in less than 7 seconds.
What is the top speed of a 2004 Acura TL?
ACURA TL 3.2L V6 6MT FWD (273 HP)
| PERFORMANCE SPECS | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed: | 152 mph (245 km/h) |
| Acceleration 0-62 Mph (0-100 kph): | 6 s |
