1998 Acura CL

Coupe 4 trims

About the 1998 Acura CL

The 1998 Acura CL stands as a compelling example of Japanese near-luxury engineering, wrapping sensible efficiency in a decidedly sporting package. This front-wheel-drive coupe delivers spirited performance, especially when optioned with the available 5-speed manual transmission, turning commutes into something genuinely engaging. While the 2.3L engine provides a respectable 150 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, it achieves an impressive 24 MPG combined, making the CL an unexpectedly frugal dance partner. Its sleek design, stretching 190.0 inches long, implies motion even at a standstill. The 1998 Acura CL successfully balances plush cabin appointments with taut driving dynamics that reward the attentive driver, proving that premium feel doesn't require a V8 soundtrack.

Key Highlights

Fuel-Efficient FWD

Achieving 29 MPG on the highway means the 1998 Acura CL offers enjoyable cruising without punishing the wallet at the pump.

Sporty Dimensions

With a wheelbase of 106.9 inches and a low profile of 54.7 inches in height, the 1998 Acura CL exhibits inherently stable and planted driving dynamics.

Manual Option Available

The availability of a 5-speed manual transmission allows enthusiasts to fully connect with the engine's 150 horsepower output.

Usable Cargo Space

Despite being a dedicated coupe, the 1998 Acura CL provides a practical 12 cubic feet of cargo capacity for weekend luggage.

Best For

Enthusiast Commuters - These drivers will appreciate the 21/29 MPG city/highway ratings combined with the potential engagement of the 5-speed manual transmission.

Acura Loyalists - Owners seeking a return to the brand's early 90s focus on reliability and refinement will find the 1998 Acura CL delivers premium features paired with regular unleaded fuel requirements.

Drivers Prioritizing Legroom - Front occupants benefit from excellent interior packaging, enjoying a generous 42.9 inches of front legroom for long-distance comfort.

Available Trims

Trim	MSRP	Drivetrain	Horsepower	MPG
2.3 2dr Coupe	-	front wheel drive	150 hp	24 mpg
2.3 Premium 2dr Coupe	-	front wheel drive	150 hp	24 mpg
3.0 2dr Coupe	-	front wheel drive	200 hp	20 mpg
3.0 Premium 2dr Coupe	-	front wheel drive	200 hp	20 mpg

Specifications Comparison

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Features Comparison

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Feature	2.3 2dr Coupe	2.3 Premium 2dr Coupe	3.0 2dr Coupe	3.0 Premium 2dr Coupe
Safety (3 features)
Head Airbags (N)
N
Side-Mounted Airbags (N)
Engine (5 features)
Base Engine Displacement	2.3 L	2.3 L	3.0 L	3.0 L
Base Engine Type	gas	gas	gas	gas
Horsepower	150 hp @ 5700 rpm	150 hp @ 5700 rpm	200 hp @ 5000 rpm	200 hp @ 5000 rpm
Number of Cylinders	inline 4	inline 4	V6	V6
Torque	152 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	152 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Drive Train (2 features)
Drivetrain Type	front wheel drive	front wheel drive	front wheel drive	front wheel drive
Transmission Type	5-speed manual	5-speed manual	4-speed automatic	4-speed automatic
Fuel (5 features)
EPA Driving Range (City/Highway)	361.2/498.8 mi.	361.2/498.8 mi.	292.4/447.2 mi.	292.4/447.2 mi.
EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway)	21/29 MPG	21/29 MPG	17/26 MPG	17/26 MPG
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined)	24 MPG	24 MPG	20 MPG	20 MPG
Fuel Tank Capacity	17.2 gal.	17.2 gal.	17.2 gal.	17.2 gal.
Fuel Type	regular unleaded	regular unleaded	regular unleaded	regular unleaded
Frontseats (4 features)
Front Head Room	37.4 in.	37.4 in.	37.4 in.	37.4 in.
Front Hip Room	51.6 in.	51.6 in.	51.6 in.	51.6 in.
Front Leg Room	42.9 in.	42.9 in.	42.9 in.	42.9 in.
Front Shoulder Room	54.4 in.	54.4 in.	54.4 in.	54.4 in.
Rearseats (4 features)
Rear Head Room	35.9 in.	35.9 in.	35.9 in.	35.9 in.
Rear Hip Room	47.6 in.	47.6 in.	47.6 in.	47.6 in.
Rear Leg Room	31.0 in.	31.0 in.	31.0 in.	31.0 in.
Rear Shoulder Room	53.1 in.	53.1 in.	53.1 in.	53.1 in.
Measurements (7 features)
Cargo Capacity (Seats Up)	12.0 cu.ft.	12.0 cu.ft.	12.0 cu.ft.	12.0 cu.ft.
Curb Weight	3062 lbs.	3004 lbs.	3215 lbs.	3215 lbs.
Height	54.7 in.	54.7 in.	54.7 in.	54.7 in.
Length	190.0 in.	190.0 in.	190.0 in.	190.0 in.
Turning Circle	39.0 ft.	39.0 ft.	39.0 ft.	39.0 ft.
Wheelbase	106.9 in.	106.9 in.	106.9 in.	106.9 in.
Width (Without Mirrors)	70.1 in.	70.1 in.	70.1 in.	70.1 in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fuel type does the 1998 Acura CL require?

The 1998 Acura CL is designed to run perfectly well on regular unleaded fuel. This is a great feature for budget-conscious ownership, especially when paired with its 24 MPG combined rating.

How does the performance differ between the 2.3L and 3.0L trims?

While specific power figures aren't detailed for both trims here, the base 2.3L engine generates 150 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque. Buyers seeking more acceleration should focus on the 3.0L variants, which typically feature a larger V6 engine.

Is the 1998 Acura CL cramped for rear passengers?

The 1998 Acura CL prioritizes the front occupants, offering a substantial 42.9 inches of front legroom. Rear passengers will find space tighter, indicated by the 31 inches of rear legroom.

What is the overall footprint of the 1998 Acura CL?

This coupe has a substantial, yet manageable footprint, measuring 190.0 inches in length and 70.1 inches in width. Its 106.9-inch wheelbase contributes to stable, predictable front-wheel-drive handling.

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