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Acura RL KA964 3.5 i V6 24V (228 Hp)
Overall Rating
Acura RL:
The Acura RL is a mid-size luxury car that was manufactured by the Acura division of Honda for the 1996–2012 model years over two generations. The RL was the flagship of the marque, having succeeded the Acura Legend, and was replaced in 2013 by the Acura RLX. All models of the Legend, RL and RLX lines have been adapted from the Japanese domestic market Honda Legend. The model name "RL" is an abbreviation for "Refined Luxury. "
The first-generation Acura RL was a rebadged version of the third-generation Honda Legend, and was first introduced to the North American market in 1996, to replace the second-generation Acura Legend. The second-generation Acura RL was a rebadged version of the fourth-generation Honda Legend, introduced to the North American market in September 2004, as a 2005 model. This iteration of the RL received an extensive mid-generational facelift for the 2009 model year, and a further update for 2011. The third-generation debuted for the 2014 model year as the Acura RLX....(Read more on Wikipedia)
KA964 Overview:
Acura RL (KA964). With 313 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1780 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 210 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
This generation of the Acura RL (KA964) was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. Safety standards of the era focused on robust construction and standard airbags, with US market tests (NHTSA/IIHS) being more relevant.
3.5 i V6 24V (228 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Provides a noticeable boost in power over the base model, enhancing acceleration and making highway maneuvers more effortless. Still focused on refinement and smooth delivery.
Fuel Economy
Slightly higher power output may lead to marginally increased fuel consumption compared to the 208 Hp version, but remains competitive for a luxury V6 of its size.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Smooth and refined V6 engines
- • Exceptionally comfortable and quiet ride
- • Spacious and well-appointed interior
- • Reputable Honda/Acura long-term reliability
- • High build quality and durability
Cons:
- • Dated styling by the end of its production run
- • Not particularly sporty handling or driving dynamics
- • Fuel economy is average for its class and engine size
- • Limited aftermarket support compared to some European rivals
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(KA964: 1995 - 2001).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Acura |
| Model: | RL |
| Generation: | KA964 |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.5 i V6 24V (228 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 228 Hp @ 5200 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 65.3 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 313 Nm @ 2800 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | C35A [Same engine] More details about the engine C35A |
| Engine displacement: | 3494 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.6 l |
| Coolant: | 8.6 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 93.4 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 85 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9.6:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.1 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.8 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 210 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.8 kg/Hp, 128.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.8 Nm/tonne |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1780 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 396 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 68 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4995 mm mm [15mm more] |
| Width: | 1822 mm mm [12mm more] |
| Height: | 1435 mm mm [5mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2910 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1552 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1540 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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