What is the top speed of the Acura CL?
A typical Acura CL tops out around 140 mph (225 km/h) in the 3.0-liter models, and about 150 mph (240–241 km/h) in the 3.2-liter CL-S variants, depending on configuration and market. Exact figures vary with tires, gearing, and electronic limits. This article explains the speeds by model year and what can influence those numbers.
Model-by-model top speeds
Below are the commonly cited top speeds for the two main engine options offered in the Acura CL during its production run. Real-world performance can vary based on transmission, wheel/tire setup, and overall vehicle condition.
1997–1999 Acura CL with a 3.0-liter V6
The late-1990s CL with the 3.0-liter V6 typically reaches around 140 mph (about 225 km/h). Variations between model years and individual cars can affect the exact figure.
2000–2003 Acura CL-S with a 3.2-liter V6
The CL-S variant, powered by the 3.2-liter V6, commonly achieves around 149–150 mph (roughly 240–241 km/h). As with the 3.0L version, actual top speed depends on factors such as tires, gearing, and any market-specific limiter settings.
Factors that affect top speed
Beyond engine displacement, several elements influence the car’s true top speed. These include the electronic speed limiter, transmission choices, tire quality and size, air resistance, weight, and environmental conditions. Some markets may have slightly different limiter settings, causing modest regional variations.
Summary
The Acura CL’s top speed is not fixed across its entire line. In general, 3.0-liter CLs top out around 140 mph, while 3.2-liter CL-S models approach 150 mph, with real-world results shaped by tires, condition, and market-specific tuning.
