The new 2021 Acura TLX meets its early predecessor: a first-generation 1996 Acura TL. Separated by 25 years, the two cars were brought together by Tyson Hugie, for a fun comparison photo shoot.
Acura styling has evolved with the times – the Fathom Blue Pearl TLX brings a more sculpted and edgier look compared to the clean lines of the Garnet Red Pearl TL. Headlights have become smaller, while the grille has grown significantly larger to become a defining feature of the brand.
When it comes to specs, it’s all in the numbers. Here are some noteworthy comparisons below.
| 1996 Acura TL 2.5 | 2021 Acura TLX SH-AWD Advance | |
| Engine | 2.5-liter, 20-valve, SOHC, inline 5 cylinder | 2.0-liter, Turbo Aluminum-alloy 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower @ rpm | 176 hp @ 6300 | 272 @ 6500 |
| Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) | 170 @ 3900 rpm | 280 @ 1600-4500 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Front Suspension | independent double-wishbone with coil springs and stabilizer bar | Double-Wishbone Front Suspension |
| Rear Suspension | independent double-wishbone with trailing link, coil springs and stabilizer bar | Multi-Link Rear Suspension |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 111.8 | 113.0 |
| Length (in.) | 191.5 | 194.6 |
| Width (in.) | 70.3 | 75.2 |
| Height (in.) | 55.3 | 56.4 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 3252 | 4028 |
| Weight Distribution | 60/40 | 57/43 |
| EPA Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) | 94.7 | 93.4 |
| EPA Fuel Economy Ratings | 20/25 | 21/29 |
[Source: Tyson Hugie]