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December 11, 2020 11:11 am by

2003 Acura CL 3.2 Type-S with a 6-speed Manual Gearbox

2003 Acura CL 3.2 Type-S

For December 11, 2020, our used car find is this 2003 Acura CL 3.2 Type-S coupe with just 62k miles and a rare 6-speed manual gearbox. It’s offered on craigslist by a private seller in the Portland area for $6995.

Here’s what makes this one special.

Introduction

The second generation CL coupe was introduced to the US market for the 2001 model year. It’s basically a two-door version of Acura’s midsize TL sedan and uses many of the same components, which is not a bad thing. And the sportier Type-S trim ups the ante with a 260 hp VTEC engine, beefier suspension components, and bigger wheels.

For the 2003 model year only, Acura also offered a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox in the Type-S, making it the most desirable and rarest CL of them all.

At the model’s debut, MotorTrend sampled one for a year-long test and came away with mostly effusive praise, particularly for the engine. They said, “The V-6 just freaking wails, making all the right noises, with good torque down low and VTEC-enhanced power up high, too.”

The Listing

This particular example seems to check all the right boxes. The car has low miles and a clean, well-kept appearance inside and out. Thanks not only to being garaged but also to living in the mild Pacific Northwest, the original Taffeta White factory paint still looks sharp, and the nicely bolstered leather sport seats inside show hardly any fading or wear. The seller also reports a full maintenance history, including recent shocks front and rear.

The asking price of $6995 is a touch on the high side for one of these, according to KBB estimates. But considering the rarity of both the condition and the spec — especially the manual gearbox — we think it looks like a good buy, perhaps even with some upside potential down the line.

Details and Specs

  • 2003 Acura CL 3.2 Type-S
  • 62k miles
  • 3.2 liter V6 engine (260 hp)
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Taffeta White exterior with Parchment leather interior
  • for sale by owner for $6995
  • Portland, Oregon
  • 19UYA41653A010162

 

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