The 2003 CL and CL Type-S

This March Acura will release the 2003 3.2 CL and CL Type-S. You read that correctly, 2003! Believe me, we were just as surprised as you are! I can only assume that the addition of the all new 6-speed manual transmission was too much of a change to continue with the 2002 model year. We are starting to get details on this new powertrain combo and it sounds very exciting. Now for the technical mumbo-jumbo (you know I love this stuff):

-An all new cable operated shifter designed for short throws and a solid, well-connected feel.

-Close gear ratios to make the most of the 260 hp engine

-A self-adjusting clutch to insure reliable, consistent operation throughout its life.

-Brass multi-cone synchronizers for reduced shifting effort.

-Dual mass flywheel for reduced noise, vibration and harshness.

-New limited slip differential.

The new Limited Slip Differential uses a set of gears to direct the appropriate amount of torque to the right and left driving wheels by sensing wheel spin. Remember, as you execute a tight cornering maneuver, the inside wheel has a shorter distance to go than the outside wheel. This can cause wheel spin in a normal differential. The Type-S was designed to reduce that effect and allow the driver to get on the throttle sooner through the turn improving handling and reducing understeer. This technology is often available as an option on many rear wheel drive sports cars, but is very rare in a front wheel drive car. Acura has the production capacity to manufacture up to 2000 6-speed CLs. With a little over 240 dealers nationwide, this could mean less than one of these special cars per month!