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That's a pretty cheap price on the Acura, even with those miles, IMO. I would not be so quick to jump into one at $9k, since I'd be dubious as to deferred maintenance issues. Hondas are a little more forgiving of some issues, I have noted, with friends who are scatterbrained about maintenance schedules. I have not owned a Honda, but we have had several Acuras, TLs, TSX, and RL. They make great daily drivers in traffic, since they are not as finicky as their German and Swedish counterparts with regard to stop-and-go patterns.
That said, I would really look for an Acura from an Acura dealer, even if it's not certified, since they know the car so much better than just any used car lot. They can be superb vehciles and not have many problems at all, save for TL transmission issues during the "bad" years. But, for $9-12k, I would be looking more to an Accord, since that's a very low price for a 2004 TL, even with high mileage. Now, in this market, cash talks, so perhaps look for a better example TL and negotiate down to that mark.
I would definitely go with the TL, especially if it was the type S. However, do not even consider it unless it has the manual transmission. Please check out the link below why you do not want an auto on a TL. Honda auto's are junk IMO. Even the Civics are notorious for automatic transmission problems. Otherwise, Honda's are pretty much bulletproof.
When I was shopping about 18 mos ago I was looking at '04-'05 CPO Accords & TL's. Loved the TL, but when I asked the Acura salesman "How is this car better then an Accord V6 EX-L (top of the line trim for an Accord) he did not have an answer except "Well, Its an Acura".
You may feel "cooler" in an Acura, But the Accord will save you $3-5K easy. So the Question to you is "Is driving a "luxury" brand worth the $3-5K?" That's your decision.
I went with the Accord. Love it.
Oh, you mentioned interior room - I'm 6'4" and the accord (4dr not coupe) was more spacious to.
I have access to the ConsumerReports website. They give equal reliability ratings to the Honda V-6 and the 4 cyl. Highest rating. The TL is similar to the Accord in reliabulity ratings.
Too bad they're both wrong wheel drive. Just kidding, the previous gen TL-S was a very attractive car but the current gen must have got hit with the ugly stick.
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Honest opinion....
