Acura CL 2nd Gen
The second-generation Acura CL offers early-2000s style and performance, with the rare 2003 Type-S 6-speed manual being the key model for collectors. The market is split between affordable automatics and the increasingly valuable manual variants.
Find one with Spotter →Acura CL 2nd Gen sold for a median of $7,950 over the last 12 months, based on 14 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $5,991 and $18,700. 359 currently for sale.
The second-generation Acura CL, sold from 2001 to 2003, was a US-designed and built coupe based on the popular TL sedan. It offered a blend of luxury and performance, with the standard 3.2 CL producing 225 hp from its V6. The main attraction for enthusiasts was the CL Type-S, which boosted output to 260 hp and added a sport-tuned suspension.
The car's collectibility is almost entirely centered on one specific model: the 2003 CL Type-S with the 6-speed manual transmission. This was the only year and trim a manual was offered, and it transformed the car's character, also adding a helical limited-slip differential. With fewer than 3,000 built, it's the definitive version collectors seek out, especially since the 5-speed automatics used in all other models are known for premature failures.
The market for the CL is highly segmented. High-mileage automatic cars can be found for very little money, making them an accessible entry point. However, the rare 6-speed Type-S models have seen their values climb steadily. Pristine, low-mileage examples now trade for more than their original MSRP, proving there's strong demand for this unique piece of Acura's performance history.
Buying Tips
- The 5-speed automatic transmission is a notorious weak point. Check for jerky shifts, slipping, or a flashing D5 light. Many have been replaced, so ask for records.
- The 2003 CL Type-S with the 6-speed manual is the most desirable model by a wide margin. It commands a significant premium but is a much more reliable and engaging car.
- Check that all electronics work. Navigation screens often fail, and heated seat elements are known to burn out.
- Inspect the interior carefully. The dashboard is prone to cracking, and the leather on the driver's seat bolster wears heavily.
- The J32 V6 engine requires a timing belt and water pump service every 90,000 to 105,000 miles. Verify this has been done or budget for the job.
Prices for the Acura CL range from around $1,800 for automatics needing work to over $23,000 for pristine, low-mileage Type-S 6-speed examples.
743 Acura CL 2nd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 359 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Acura CL 2nd Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Acura CL 2nd Gen sold for a median of $7,950 across 14 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $5,991 and $18,700. There are 359 currently for sale.
How many Acura CL 2nd Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 359 Acura CL 2nd Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.