volvo s60 vs. bmw 3series vs. acura tsx which one?

[bizzo]

which one and why?

[HighFlyer]

out of the 3, I'd have a closer look at the tsx. haven't driven it yet, but it looks promising. also made in japan.

s60 - looks too bland
3 series - too many mechanical problems reported by friends/acquaintances who own this car

[bizzo]

out of the 3, I'd have a closer look at the tsx.  haven't driven it yet, but it looks promising.  also made in japan.

v60 - looks too bland
3 series - too many mechanical problems reported by friends/acquaintances who own this car

infiniti g35!

[Kenneth]

TSX- Never driven one; but on paper and film it looks promising. Can't be compared to the Euro accords because of the changes made by Honda. (According to the magazines). No station wagon variant; so i'm not sure why your considering it?

V60- Not too fond of the styling; but it drives well and handles reasonably. The interior is nice: no eye candy but it's laid out well. I found the manual gear shift odd; but didn't try it out. Plenty of space for it's size.

3xx- I'm a BMW fan: but I really like this car. Doesn't do to well IMO as as sedan. But as a station wagon it's size it vastly improved. Performance wise it's the hands down the best of the group. It costs more than the others but if you order a "reasonably" equipped 325 instead of the 330 you shouldn't be all that bad. As for reliability? Nothing to brag about but nothing to be ashamed of either :wink:

325i win's 8)

[emerson lake and palmer]

tsx is just a fancy accord isn't it?

[Chemical2001]

you want a station wagon??

[neospite]

the whole acura line are fancy hondas, its over priced hondas.... lexus=over priced toyotas.

If i could have gotten a german car i wouldnt give a second look to acuras/lexus.... BMW all da way, looks, style, brand name, its got it all.


Or try the Audi A4

[emerson lake and palmer]

you want a station wagon??

who me? no. i'm thinking of getting the rsx type-s, personally

[Chemical2001]

For some reason I thought Bizzo wanted a station wagon.

[Kenneth]

^^

He specifically stated the Volvo V60 which is a station wagon. The sedan version is named the S60.

Unless it was a typo on his part :?

[Chemical2001]

see I was trying to figure out why somebody of his age would want a station wagon. maybe you're right and that it was a typo.

[HighFlyer]

^^

He specifically stated the Volvo V60 which is a station wagon. The sedan version is named the S60.

Unless it was a typo on his part :?
Sorry, the typo was my mistake. He did say S60.

[Kenneth]

^^

I could've sworn his original post had V60 also!

Ah well; station wagons are nice and are better than a SUV any day. What you give up in structural rigidity in a wagon you make up in functionality.

[bizzo]

i never said the v60. i said s60 all along. give me some respect! :lol:

i'm not a soccer mom yet. :roll:

[grant]

Station wagons can be pretty sweet.. the handling of a car with the cargo capacity of a minivan

Maybe it's just my age talking though, I got sick of poser cars that couldn't fit my 6' frame let alone carry any useful stuff...

[hp]

i'm not a soccer mom yet. :roll:

Are U working on this? :P

I'd second the Infinity G35 even though it was not on your list.

The coupe looks Good and it's got power and handling.

Forget BMW 3 series, there is way too many of those on the road. It seems any joe blow can just lease one of those suckers.

[frogger]

hehe.. I may be living paycheque to paycheque and have less than $100,000 in capital but I drive a 3-series.

j/k

[petersiu007]

I sugges you take a look at the A4... it's one sweet car! it's avant version (wagon) also looks awesome, one of the best wagons out there! the protege 5 also looks pretty good. Either that, or the infiniti F35/45 if you want to hull some stuff around

[major]

I'm also considering buying a new car in the same category. I've narrowed my search down to the Audi A4 and the Infiniti G35. The Audi seems to offer more than the others in this category in terms of style, performance, stautus and it's the only car in this category with AWD.

BTW I'm switching from an SUV.

[warpdrive]

Uh, your list is missing two of the best cars in this category

Infiniti G35
or Lexus IS300

My choice would be a G35. Awesome engine, sharp handling and nice quality all-around. The IS300 is a bit older but still is one of the most sporty sedans around.

The S60 and TSX are inferior dynamically to either of these cars. In the $40K range, you really shouldn't have to put up with the handling flaws of a FWD car (FWD sucks for handling, get AWD or RWD). Unless you go S60R, there isn't much that you can't get elsewhere. The TSX is probably out of this league, reviews show that it doesn't have what it takes to compete against the leaders like BMW, but I guess if it comes in the low thirties, it will be a decent value as long as you forget that it's just FWD and has low torque four-cylinder.

The BMW is still the standard in sports sedans, the best handling, the smoothest engines, and classic looks. The handling is beautifully balanced. Unfortunately, you have to pay to play, maintenance can get pricey and they are only average in reliability. But few cars handle as precisely while balancing a good ride (as an example, the IS300 handles practically as good, but is not nearly as smooth riding)

I like Audi's but their reliability is even worse than BMW's, but their Quattro AWD is amazing when the conditions degrade. If you want one of these, just lease it and walk away from it once the 4 yr warranty/free maintenance expires. It gets expensive after that.
I currently own an Audi A4 and it will definitely be my last Audi....too many recalls, and problems comparatively to other cars I've owned. Right now, if Subaru continues to churn off little buzz bombs like my current WRX, my next car will also be a Subaru. I'd hooked on AWD for winter driven cars, no more FWD for me EVAR!

[coco]

Definitely the G35 too!

The BMW is a piece of junk compare to the G35 with the same money. With $39k, you can barely get a crappy 320i with the same options like Leather, Sunroof, power everthing, 16" Wheels, etc etc.

Sure, if you have $60k to get 330i, go for it, but that's a different story... but I'm sure some fools will be pointing that out. :roll:

BTW, according to Car and Drivers review, the 330i still loses to the G35 in accelaration, braking, and handling. :roll:

[coco]

tsx is just a fancy accord isn't it?

No, it's not a fancy Accord. It's a RACING Accord. With a special tuned 200HP 2.4L engine, awesome suspension system, great looks, it's no fancy at all.

Expect a true good handling FWD sedan with this TSX, it's extremely popular in Asia and Europe. Doesn't handle like a boat like most cars in North America.

[achc]

BMW 3xx
Volvo S60
Acura TSX

Its kinda weird you are comparing these three as the BMW 3 series is totally different from TSX. Its different from Volvo n Acura as well. BMW 3xx is FR where S60 & TSX is FF

[bluetroll]

the new 3 is frickin purty.... and active steering??? does it get any better?

[wanted]

Is it me or isn't this thread 2 YEARS OLD.
PS OP got banned lol

[Sgt_Strider]

First of all, the TSX isn't a crap car and it actually got VERY good reviews. I don't know where some of you get your information, but Car and Driver said it was a very good car for the money. Personally I would get this even though some of you are right in that it's pretty much a souped up Accord. It has very good reliability and has good gas mileage. I would buy one if I had the money. The G35 is good too, but I don't really like the looks of it. BMW and Audi is good, but maintenance can be really high.

[2000fordfocus]

S60!! Volvo are legend!

[thelefteyeguy]

the G35 is in a totally different class than the S60/3series/tsx...

much more expensive too....not a fair comparison

[gilboman]

No, it's not a fancy Accord. It's a RACING Accord. With a special tuned 200HP 2.4L engine, awesome suspension system, great looks, it's no fancy at all.

Expect a true good handling FWD sedan with this TSX, it's extremely popular in Asia and Europe. Doesn't handle like a boat like most cars in North America.

the TSX IS THE ACCORD IN REST OF THE WORLD. i dont know what kind of racing you do in an overweight (3200+)lb FWD I4 with no power down low and less top end than a RSX, 60/40 weight distribution and atrocious brakes.

the tsx is good handling considering it is an overweight FWD car with a 4cylinder engine and 60/40 weight distribution. but compared to cars like 3 series , C-Class, IS300, it is a few grades below in every aspect of performance. it is what it is, an overweight econobox with undersized engine.

a manual TSX does 0-60 in high 7's :lol: , auto is high 8's :lol:

but the worst thing is definitely the brakes, another craptacular job from honda/acura which cant get the idea to equip cars with good brakes and not just adequate.

[gilboman]

the G35 is in a totally different class than the S60/3series/tsx...

much more expensive too....not a fair comparison

a 325i will run circles around a G35 in handling, driving enjoyment, balance etc.. (except in a drag race)
(old 3 series too, not the new ones)

all the tests and car mags pitting them together have always conceded in pleasure and performance, the G35 is way short of even a 325i.

[McLaren]

What i hate about the G35 is that they use LED tail lights for the brake lights, but use a conventional bulb for the turn signals, ie - uber lame. I guess they had to cut costs somwhere to keep the price down.

That and everyone and their mom has a G35, boring.

[Neb]

3 series would be my pick, esp the 2006 model, Lots for your money at 39k.. the G35 iv'e herad has fragile interiors.. things will break. The TSX, i just went to look at this weekend, I can't stand the dash, the fake "leather" look feel ssoo cheap and shinny plastic in a entry level luxury car is not acceptable. I won't even comment on the Volvo, but it's the most boring one of them all.

[mlc2000]

Its dressed up to look fast, but in fact, its gutless.

No, it's not a fancy Accord. It's a RACING Accord. With a special tuned 200HP 2.4L engine, awesome suspension system, great looks, it's no fancy at all.

Expect a true good handling FWD sedan with this TSX, it's extremely popular in Asia and Europe. Doesn't handle like a boat like most cars in North America.

[mlc2000]

First of all, the TSX isn't a crap car and it actually got VERY good reviews. BMW and Audi is good, but maintenance can be really high.

My wife is looking for a new car, and she's tested most everything in this range, with the exception of the S60, since its about $20K more than the TSX and the Beemer and really has no place in this comparison.

First point....Drive a TSX, don't read reviews. This thing is gutless. When my wife says its gutless, thats saying something. She told the sales rep the initials TSX stand for "This SuX."

Second Point...currently BMW is running a promo on the new 3 series 325i
$3K down, $499/mth and FREE MAINTENANCE.

Second Point again...yer absolutely right on Audi, service $$ is atrocious. Don't discount Acura service though, they're pretty pricey as well.

[mlc2000]

3 series would be my pick, esp the 2006 model, Lots for your money at 39k.. the G35 iv'e herad has fragile interiors.. things will break. The TSX, i just went to look at this weekend, I can't stand the dash, the fake "leather" look feel ssoo cheap and shinny plastic in a entry level luxury car is not acceptable. I won't even comment on the Volvo, but it's the most boring one of them all.

The fake leather on the TSX is not as nice as the fake leather on the last model TL. Now THAT was a bargain at $36K. THe TSX is a wannabe lux-sport.
Overpriced and underpowered.

[DJ_Peanuts22]

whoever resurrected this thread is an idiot

[Sgt_Strider]

My wife is looking for a new car, and she's tested most everything in this range, with the exception of the S60, since its about $20K more than the TSX and the Beemer and really has no place in this comparison.

First point....Drive a TSX, don't read reviews. This thing is gutless. When my wife says its gutless, thats saying something. She told the sales rep the initials TSX stand for "This SuX."

Second Point...currently BMW is running a promo on the new 3 series 325i
$3K down, $499/mth and FREE MAINTENANCE.

Second Point again...yer absolutely right on Audi, service $$ is atrocious. Don't discount Acura service though, they're pretty pricey as well.

No offence dude, but I am not going to take your wife's opinion over the reviews done by professionals. It's like believing an amateur over someone who knows what they're talking about. You can believe what you want, but to pretty much summarize the car as crap just because your wife says so is complete ignorance. Why don't you check out the performance numbers and all? For the money, the TSX is a good buy.

[jnusaputr]

S60. I had one, but now using the V70. I really love the design of the car, very sexy. The interior is awesome, had to get use to the climate control - looks weird. Volvo is very ergonomics, very comfortable in seating. If you get this car, get the 2.5T. The bad about this car: turning radius. maintenance, very resonable. especially if you compare to the BMW (once the free maintenance is over). I have had 4 volvos over the last 12 years, and they are a very solid car.

3 Series, not fond of the new 3. prefer the old one. Driven it for a weekend, very crisp handling. Not sure about later on in its life (5+ years or 160k up)

TSX - European accord. Probably the most reliable of the 3 that you narrowed it down to. I wonder how it drives later on. With European cars, they handling is still very good even at 200k on the odometer.

My vote: S60 2.5T or the 3 series (1999-2005). The S60 is what i would ultimately choose because i know the car extermely well. If you want to find out more, check out: www.swedespeed.com

[aZnRYcEbOi]

No offence dude, but I am not going to take your wife's opinion over the reviews done by professionals. It's like believing an amateur over someone who knows what they're talking about. You can believe what you want, but to pretty much summarize the car as crap just because your wife says so is complete ignorance. Why don't you check out the performance numbers and all? For the money, the TSX is a good buy.

I agree that the TSX is a good buy. You get a well rounded car that has a mix of performance, luxury, and reliability. It might not have the prestige that comes with Lexus or BMW, but Acura seems to have always been aiming for the near-luxury market anyways.

For BMW, the lowest model that I would get is a 325ci. Anything less, and it just feels like you're a poser.
325ci Base is around $44k, add the premium package & taxes, and you're looking at around $56k on the road. (priced it out at Town & Country BMW last year). I added a premium package because the base doesn't come with leather, HID's, sunroof, etc.

Compare that to a TSX, base at around $34k, no need to add any packages, and it'll come to $39k on the road (after some bargaining, since dealer invoice is $32,016 and many people have got it for around $32,600).

I do agree that the TSX feels sluggish though. Straight-line performance feels slow compared to my old '98 Prelude, which also had 200hp. It's probably because of iVTEC, which flattens out the power curve. But it's not like you're going to go tracking in a TSX anyways, so who cares.


In any case, my advice is to buy what YOU WANT. Go for test drives, and do your own due diligence. Don't just read up on reviews and buy what everyone else THINKS is good. Buy the car that suits YOUR needs.

[Jeff]

The Volvo or Honda because of BMWs reliability track record. The BMW and Audis are nice cars but have their fair share of problems. Now if you don't care about repairs then I'd go for an A4.

[warpdrive]

To dismiss the TSX is just plain ignorance. The TSX has received rave reviews in the press. Even Car and Driver who *loves* BMW's, have the TSX on the same Top Ten List the BMW is permanently on.

And as a guy who's really picky about cars, I have to agree the TSX is a must have on a shopper's shortlist. And this is from a guy who hates FWD cars in general. I dislike the TL because it's too big of a car to have FWD, but the TSX works fine, the engine is more than torquey enough, and the chassis is quite solid, and tossable. And the thing is loaded for $35K.

To say it's inferior to the BMW might be true, but a comparably equipped 325i (with leather, fully loaded) costs at least $10K more.

[shin]

If you like turbo...try SAAB 9-3!
At least you won't see 3 same model same color in 1 row in shopping parking lot! :D

[Focus]

I am not going to spend 40k on a 4 banger, thats all I am going to said.

[frogger]

I'd probably go for cars not on the list, the G35 or CTS or the 3 series.

The little 4 banger in the TSX you really have to drive it hard to get any speed, especially from 0-40km/hr.

[warpdrive]

I'd probably go for cars not on the list, the G35 or CTS or the 3 series.

The little 4 banger in the TSX you really have to drive it hard to get any speed, especially from 0-40km/hr.

Me too, but the G35 comparably loaded is quite a bit more expensive.

[McLaren]

For BMW, the lowest model that I would get is a 325ci. Anything less, and it just feels like you're a poser.

So getting a base 325i qualifies as being a poser? I don't know about you but paying 39k for a car is still a large chunk of change.

[Neb]

So getting a base 325i qualifies as being a poser? I don't know about you but paying 39k for a car is still a large chunk of change.

Hey, u took my line!

[mlc2000]

No offence dude, but I am not going to take your wife's opinion over the reviews done by professionals. It's like believing an amateur over someone who knows what they're talking about. You can believe what you want, but to pretty much summarize the car as crap just because your wife says so is complete ignorance. Why don't you check out the performance numbers and all? For the money, the TSX is a good buy.

Reviews by professionals...hmmm....they keep the car a whole week?

My wife has owned in the past

Bmw 320
Mazda RX7
Nissan Maxima GLE

Acura TL (current car)
The TL was a bargain at $36K.
Compare the 2000 TL with the 2005 TSX, no comparison. Fit, finish, materials, hands down the TL takes it.
The Tsx belongs at $30K, no higher.
For $36K, u can be driving a Maxima

[gilboman]

No offence dude, but I am not going to take your wife's opinion over the reviews done by professionals. It's like believing an amateur over someone who knows what they're talking about. You can believe what you want, but to pretty much summarize the car as crap just because your wife says so is complete ignorance. Why don't you check out the performance numbers and all? For the money, the TSX is a good buy.

FOR THE MONEY is keyword..just like for the money, the hyundai pony and daewoo's and kia's are good buys.

the TSX is good buy for the money, but once you start comparing it to its "supposed" compeition..it is totally outclassed.

the TSX gets decent reviews on the assumption that it is good for a FWD, 4BANGER 3200+lb sedan. but not that it is good compared to a IS, 3series, C-class or A4.

the performance nubmers are pathetic since you brought it up...6spd manual 0-60mph high 7's (watch out for those corolla and Matrix XRS :o or honda odysseys and lexus RX jeeps etc...)

automatic is high 8's... keeping up with the echos if you are lucky.

[gilboman]

To dismiss the TSX is just plain ignorance. The TSX has received rave reviews in the press. Even Car and Driver who *loves* BMW's, have the TSX on the same Top Ten List the BMW is permanently on.

And as a guy who's really picky about cars, I have to agree the TSX is a must have on a shopper's shortlist. And this is from a guy who hates FWD cars in general. I dislike the TL because it's too big of a car to have FWD, but the TSX works fine, the engine is more than torquey enough, and the chassis is quite solid, and tossable. And the thing is loaded for $35K.

To say it's inferior to the BMW might be true, but a comparably equipped 325i (with leather, fully loaded) costs at least $10K more.

as for the top 10, its in the price range, just like how the focus (a good little car when it help up) was always on the top ten as well, but you wouldn't say its in same league as other top ten cars like corvette or various bimmers.

but the extra 10k is what seperates the poser (TSX with its porky weight, underwhelming engine, crap brakes, 60/40weight distribution and 4banger and numb steering) to the 3series.

the TSX is a good buy if you ONLY have 35k MAX to spend and not a cent more but you want a poser car that pretends its an entry low level sporty sedan when its really an overweight econobox FWD with adequate performance for an economy car.

[Sgt_Strider]

Reviews by professionals...hmmm....they keep the car a whole week?

My wife has owned in the past

Bmw 320
Mazda RX7
Nissan Maxima GLE

Acura TL (current car)
The TL was a bargain at $36K.
Compare the 2000 TL with the 2005 TSX, no comparison. Fit, finish, materials, hands down the TL takes it.
The Tsx belongs at $30K, no higher.
For $36K, u can be driving a Maxima

I don't care what your wife owned in the past and it's not relevant to your statement that the TSX is crap. The TSX does have the Honda reliablity compared to BMW And Mazda.

[Sgt_Strider]

FOR THE MONEY is keyword..just like for the money, the hyundai pony and daewoo's and kia's are good buys.

the TSX is good buy for the money, but once you start comparing it to its "supposed" compeition..it is totally outclassed.

the TSX gets decent reviews on the assumption that it is good for a FWD, 4BANGER 3200+lb sedan. but not that it is good compared to a IS, 3series, C-class or A4.

the performance nubmers are pathetic since you brought it up...6spd manual 0-60mph high 7's (watch out for those corolla and Matrix XRS :o or honda odysseys and lexus RX jeeps etc...)

automatic is high 8's... keeping up with the echos if you are lucky.

You can't compare Hyundai's, daewoo, and kia to Acura. Acura at least has quality and reliability while the 3 Korean manufacturers have a questionable record at best. Everyone has a certain budget and I'm going to repeat it again: TSX is good for the money. I don't recall a review slamming the TSX and saying it was crap. If you or anyone can come up with one, I would gladly read it.

[warpdrive]

as for the top 10, its in the price range, just like how the focus (a good little car when it help up) was always on the top ten as well, but you wouldn't say its in same league as other top ten cars like corvette or various bimmers.

but the extra 10k is what seperates the poser (TSX with its porky weight, underwhelming engine, crap brakes, 60/40weight distribution and 4banger and numb steering) to the 3series.

the TSX is a good buy if you ONLY have 35k MAX to spend and not a cent more but you want a poser car that pretends its an entry low level sporty sedan when its really an overweight econobox FWD with adequate performance for an economy car.

I have to disagree, the TSX is an excellent car. I took one for an extended test drive, and it compares very favorably to whatever other European car you can name in its price range. Which in this case is a 4 banger VW, base BMW 320i with a wimpy inline 6. The 320i....now *that's* a poseur car. The TL is way too heavy to be FWD, that thing handles quite sloppily compared to the TSX. The steering is not numb. The steering is quite precise with good on-centre feel. Have you even driven it? I am a big fan of the BMW 330, but even compared to that, the TSX is fun to drive, and a good value. It handled whatever I threw at it with finesse, and solid feel.

Why does everything have to label the car as a poseur just because it's a little bit underpowered compared to much more expensive cars? That's the price to pay for its lower price. It's not a drag race, there are other aspects of a car that are world class like the handling/comfort balance. It's FWD but it's one of the best FWD's I've driven in a while (and note again: my two primary cars are RWD and AWD, I hate FWD).

The problem with comments like yours is that just because it's cheaper not nor as good as the more expensive alternatives, doesn't make it crap. It's not black and white. The TSX is as much fun to drive as any family sized car in its price range. The Maxima is priced similarly, but I'd argue it doesn't handle nearly as well, nor feels as tossable. A loaded Mazda 6 doesn't have the fit and finish. The Passat and Audi have less refined engines. The Legacy Limited (not GT as it's $40) is down on power.

As I said, the TSX continues to get good reviews from people that drive cars for a living. Everything from C&D, Automobile Magazine, Top Gear likes it (they said the EuroAccord is a "very good car"), and even Consumer Reports rates it highly as a sports-luxury sedan. And some of you still think it's crap. News for you...think again. I know a good thing when I drive it, and the TSX is it.

[flito ray]

The problem with comments like you is that just because it's cheaper not nor as good as the more expensive alternatives, doesn't make it crap. It's not black and white. The TSX is as much fun to drive as any family sized car in its price range. The Maxima is priced similarly, but I'd argue it doesn't handle nearly as well. A loaded Mazda 6 doesn't have the fit and finish. The Passat and Audi have less refined engines. The Legacy Limited (not GT as it's $40) is down on power.

hi warpdrive, actually the legacy gt (non limited) starts at about 37K and it's no slouch. If you don't need the leather seats etc, it's a very potent car with AWD and a turbo 4 @ 250 HP and 250 torque.

[warpdrive]

hi warpdrive, actually the legacy gt (non limited) starts at about 37K and it's no slouch. If you don't need the leather seats etc, it's a very potent car with AWD and a turbo 4 @ 250 HP and 250 torque.

Yes, I know, but we're talking comparably equipped. The GT Limited is well over $40K. I know *I* would buy a base Legacy GT over the TSX, but you have to be fair when comparing it.

Car and Driver rated the TSX better than the Legacy GT in their last direct comparison, and I would still prefer the Legacy myself to get the AWD for our weather (and the fact that I hate FWD)
Link: http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?section_id=15&article_id=8550&page_number=1

I have to agree with their last statement.
The TSX has a zesty eagerness about it, like the high-winding Acura Integra Type R of the later '90s. We can't stop grinning when we're in the cockpit. But there's much more here—this car tied with or topped all the others in 17 of the 22 rating categories. Call it accomplished, call it irresistible, call it the class of the less-than-30-large field.


I will say it again. To say the TSX is crap is pure ignorance. Either you just looked at the spec sheet and/or don't know anything about cars.

[mlc2000]

itsnot relevant to your statement that the TSX is crap.

Just wondering, where did u get the idea that I said it was crap?

My wife and I both drove this car, we took it for a weekend.
We both feel it is underpowered and we both feel the price is a little high.

This is not the first time Acura has introduced a higher-priced, underpowered car.
Take the 2.2CL for example. Introduced in the spring of '96 as a 97., it was a beautiful car,
but grossly underpowered. In the fall of '97, it was 'replaced' by the better equipped 3.0CL

The TSX has some nice features, but I'd like to see a better engine with a little more torque.
For the same money, a 2005 Maxima with what is overwhelmingly considered the best V6 in North America,
produces 265 HP SAE @ 5,800 rpm; 255 ft lb of torque,
compared to the TSX with 200 HP SAE @ 6,800 rpm; and a measily 166 ft lb of torque.
Better get used to seeing the taillights of other cars getting smaller and smaller...Sorry, nice looking but not enough balls for the $.

We owned an Acura and a Nissan, each have equal build quality.
I never said TSX was crap, I just think in the age of getting the most bang for the buck,
the Maxima whips the TSX's butt.

Just my 2 sense.

[warpdrive]

In the fall of '97, it was 'replaced' by the better equipped 3.0CL


It was "replaced" with the 2.3 CL, the 3.0CL was considerably more expensive.


The TSX has some nice features, but I'd like to see a better engine with a little more torque.
For the same money, a 2005 Maxima with what is overwhelmingly considered the best V6 in North America,
produces 265 HP SAE @ 5,800 rpm; 255 ft lb of torque,
compared to the TSX with 200 HP SAE @ 6,800 rpm; and a measily 166 ft lb of torque.
Better get used to seeing the taillights of other cars getting smaller and smaller...Sorry, nice looking but not enough balls for the $.


I don't look at HP and torque figures as the one factor that determines which is a better car. It's *one* factor but ultimately how good the overall package feels is what I base my decisions on. I throw my cars into the corners, and how they react is what determines which one I buy. The TSX reacts quicker than the Maxima, the steering is tighter, there isn't crazy torque steer (FWD and 265Hp don't mix), the car feels lighter, more tossable, and the ride is better at the same time (throw some bumps in that corner and see which one feels more planted). I had a lot more fun driving the TSX over the Maxima

[aZnRYcEbOi]

So getting a base 325i qualifies as being a poser? I don't know about you but paying 39k for a car is still a large chunk of change.

Sorry, I meant anything in the 325 series is the lowest I would get.
But personally I'd go for the 325ci.

In most cases, the only reason a person buys a 320 is because they want to be associated with the BMW brand & prestige. IMO, Getting a 320 qualifies as being a poser. Again, unless you spend a bit to get upgrade packages, you might as well buy a better car that is better equipped.

[gilboman]

You can't compare Hyundai's, daewoo, and kia to Acura. Acura at least has quality and reliability while the 3 Korean manufacturers have a questionable record at best. Everyone has a certain budget and I'm going to repeat it again: TSX is good for the money. I don't recall a review slamming the TSX and saying it was crap. If you or anyone can come up with one, I would gladly read it.

its only crap if you compare it to the IS, 3series etc... which a lot of people including those in this thread like to do.

the reviews have all stated again and again IT IS NO 3SERIES and it is NO SPORTSEDAN.. it is a good FWD car with sluggish power. all reviews follow this basic script. good for money, not even in same class as the other ones.

[gilboman]

I have to disagree, the TSX is an excellent car. I took one for an extended test drive, and it compares very favorably to whatever other European car you can name in its price range. Which in this case is a 4 banger VW, base BMW 320i with a wimpy inline 6. The 320i....now *that's* a poseur car. The TL is way too heavy to be FWD, that thing handles quite sloppily compared to the TSX. The steering is not numb. The steering is quite precise with good on-centre feel. Have you even driven it? I am a big fan of the BMW 330, but even compared to that, the TSX is fun to drive, and a good value. It handled whatever I threw at it with finesse, and solid feel.

Why does everything have to label the car as a poseur just because it's a little bit underpowered compared to much more expensive cars? That's the price to pay for its lower price. It's not a drag race, there are other aspects of a car that are world class like the handling/comfort balance. It's FWD but it's one of the best FWD's I've driven in a while (and note again: my two primary cars are RWD and AWD, I hate FWD).

The problem with comments like yours is that just because it's cheaper not nor as good as the more expensive alternatives, doesn't make it crap. It's not black and white. The TSX is as much fun to drive as any family sized car in its price range. The Maxima is priced similarly, but I'd argue it doesn't handle nearly as well, nor feels as tossable. A loaded Mazda 6 doesn't have the fit and finish. The Passat and Audi have less refined engines. The Legacy Limited (not GT as it's $40) is down on power.

As I said, the TSX continues to get good reviews from people that drive cars for a living. Everything from C&D, Automobile Magazine, Top Gear likes it (they said the EuroAccord is a "very good car"), and even Consumer Reports rates it highly as a sports-luxury sedan. And some of you still think it's crap. News for you...think again. I know a good thing when I drive it, and the TSX is it.

its a poser b/c it pretends its in same class as the sportsedans when its just an underpowered family car with decent handling. it's more of a mazda 6 competitor and not BMW, LExus, MB or audi

as long as you look at it as a family car and you dont need 50/50weight distribution or passing power to rival an odyssey it is a good buy assuming you only have max 35k to spend.

i've driven a TSX too..its good for a FWD 3200+lb sedan but even on an onramp, it is no match for a lowly MB C230Kompressor coupe simply due to the atrocious weight distribution in the TSX and inherent disadvantages to handling of FWD.

it is what it is and nothing more. the TSX is a good car as long as you dont think it is anywhere near the same thing as the big boys 320i included... the 320i is gutless like the TSX and both are slow and slower. but the 320i handles way better than the TSX b/c it has same suspension setup and weight distribution as the bigger 3 series.

the kia rio, chevy impala gets good reviews too, but you wont say its in same class as a lexus etc... but this is whats happening to the TSX, its an overweight family car that poses as a sporty sedan.

[warpdrive]

its a poser b/c it pretends its in same class as the sportsedans ....

it is what it is and nothing more. the TSX is a good car as long as you dont think it is anywhere near the same thing as the big boys 320i included... the 320i is gutless like the TSX and both are slow and slower. but the 320i handles way better than the TSX b/c it has same suspension setup and weight distribution as the bigger 3 series.

A base 320i series doesn't handle that well, in fact, it really doesn't drive any better than a TSX, in fact worse I would say. The base setup is quite sloppy in fact, I couldn't believe that this was a BMW. 50/50, RWD, don't make up for crappy tires, soft suspension setup, and a really weak (but smooth) engine.

Acura chose to market it as a 3 series competitor, and if one thinks they are driving a Japanese 3 series, then yes they have been duped. But in its class, it's still one of the best sport sedans. I don't consider the MB C320 a very good car at all, the TSX is a better deal and a better car.

You make a big deal out of weight distribution, but I think it's overrated as a spec. On real roads, it makes much less of a difference than you imply. Everybody thinks they are such driving experts, able to drift around corners, but I'd gladly say that the TSX is every bit as fun to fling around a mountain side road than 320i, Volvo S50, Subaru Legacy, Audi A4, VW Passat, and especially bloated boats like the Maxima or TL.

[o_canada_a]

why not put an end to this and get an M3

[flame02]

TSX all the way ... mayb cause ive owned acuras all my life, but they are built to last! they have power and fuel economy, and yeah its made in japan (Honda Accord in Japan)

[gilboman]

A base 320i series doesn't handle that well, in fact, it really doesn't drive any better than a TSX, in fact worse I would say. The base setup is quite sloppy in fact, I couldn't believe that this was a BMW. 50/50, RWD, don't make up for crappy tires, soft suspension setup, and a really weak (but smooth) engine.

Acura chose to market it as a 3 series competitor, and if one thinks they are driving a Japanese 3 series, then yes they have been duped. But in its class, it's still one of the best sport sedans. I don't consider the MB C320 a very good car at all, the TSX is a better deal and a better car.

You make a big deal out of weight distribution, but I think it's overrated as a spec. On real roads, it makes much less of a difference than you imply. Everybody thinks they are such driving experts, able to drift around corners, but I'd gladly say that the TSX is every bit as fun to fling around a mountain side road than 320i, Volvo S50, Subaru Legacy, Audi A4, VW Passat, and especially bloated boats like the Maxima or TL.

if you want crappy tires look no further than the TSX ;) the C230 is not a very good car for the price, but handling and driving wise is miles ahead of a TSX

but i'm glad you aknowledge in its class (which basically is the mazda 6, volvo, sabb and some other minor players) because no car company in their right mind would even pretend a family fwd car is anything but a family fwd car instead of a sportsedan :lol:

[gilboman]

TSX all the way ... mayb cause ive owned acuras all my life, but they are built to last! they have power and fuel economy, and yeah its made in japan (Honda Accord in Japan)

feel sorry for you having to drive honda econoboxes all your life. i certainly dont want to drive FWD underpowered and bad brakes all my life.

acura/honda is a good starter car for those who cant afford anything better, but its still an econo car. worst is acura with econocar posing as semi luxury :lol: only they forgot luxury includes service and decent cars

and what is this power you speak of? :lol: honda's are good economy cars but power is something you dont describe honda with.

[warpdrive]

if you want crappy tires look no further than the TSX ;) the C230 is not a very good car for the price, but handling and driving wise is miles ahead of a TSX

I disagree, the C230 is not a good car, period.

[akito925]

what about nissians altimas?? like a 3.5?? 5 speed any good?

[ViperZ]

If you are looking at 3-series, then no point comparing to TSX, and the other way around.
My choice: either 328i/330i or Lexus is300.

Regarding Altimas. I tried 2.5S and 3.5S (i.e. manual transmission) - looks like 3.5 is too much for Altima base - does not hold the road as well as 2.5.

[Neb]

Might as well get a Maxima. Altima is not a entry level luxury car. It's like a camry or accord.

And ppl I know with one has tons of problems, with things breaking right after the warrenty period.

what about nissians altimas?? like a 3.5?? 5 speed any good?

[gordholio]

I'd have to agree that the Infiniti G35 is the nicest looking of all the bunch.
Maximas are pretty ugly. Accord is not that great looking.

[jnusaputr]

i guess this thread just shows: to each his own :) everyone has their own opinion which is the best car to get, bang for your buck etc. but in the end, it is YOUR choice and YOUR money :cheesygri

[Sgt_Strider]

its a poser b/c it pretends its in same class as the sportsedans when its just an underpowered family car with decent handling. it's more of a mazda 6 competitor and not BMW, LExus, MB or audi

as long as you look at it as a family car and you dont need 50/50weight distribution or passing power to rival an odyssey it is a good buy assuming you only have max 35k to spend.

i've driven a TSX too..its good for a FWD 3200+lb sedan but even on an onramp, it is no match for a lowly MB C230Kompressor coupe simply due to the atrocious weight distribution in the TSX and inherent disadvantages to handling of FWD.

it is what it is and nothing more. the TSX is a good car as long as you dont think it is anywhere near the same thing as the big boys 320i included... the 320i is gutless like the TSX and both are slow and slower. but the 320i handles way better than the TSX b/c it has same suspension setup and weight distribution as the bigger 3 series.

the kia rio, chevy impala gets good reviews too, but you wont say its in same class as a lexus etc... but this is whats happening to the TSX, its an overweight family car that poses as a sporty sedan.

First of all, the overall tone of your voice seems to suggest that you hate the TSX. Read the reviews man and I believe the numbers are respectable and is comparable to the IS300. The specs of the IS300 doesn't blow the TSX away and IIRC it's only about 16 HP faster than the TSX. That and the fact it's more expensive as well. Granted, I'm not as knowledgeable in cars than I do in computers, but I beg to differ that it can't compete with the IS300.

[mlc2000]

Agreed, at least the OP didn;t have the audacity to compare with GM! HAHAHAH :cheesygri :D :cheesygri
i guess this thread just shows: to each his own :) everyone has their own opinion which is the best car to get, bang for your buck etc. but in the end, it is YOUR choice and YOUR money :cheesygri

[DJ_Peanuts22]

RWD: IS300, 330i or G35
FWD: Altima 3.5L V6, S60 T5 or TL (only get as last option)
AWD: Legacy GT, Impreza WRX

and to comment on the weight balance characterstics.... FWD cars will never EVER come close to near 50/50 weight distribution

if you want something good, try to get a used Celica GT-S or Prelude SH if you dont mind two doors

[gilboman]

First of all, the overall tone of your voice seems to suggest that you hate the TSX. Read the reviews man and I believe the numbers are respectable and is comparable to the IS300. The specs of the IS300 doesn't blow the TSX away and IIRC it's only about 16 HP faster than the TSX. That and the fact it's more expensive as well. Granted, I'm not as knowledgeable in cars than I do in computers, but I beg to differ that it can't compete with the IS300.

i dont hate it..i just hate it when people comprare it to IS, 3series, C-class etc.. b/c it is totally different from those. its like comparing a civic SI to a s2k, they are totally different class altogehter. i mean the wrong wheels are turning, 2cylinders is missing, weight distribution is 10%off and the rotors are an inch too small.

the IS300 has about 70lb/ft more torque and can get it on the ground much better via the rear wheels...

and how can it compete with a IS with all the above handicaps? drive one and go hard into a corner/turn, the TSX will plow b/c it has 60% of weight on front, and the rear wheels are doing nothing. do it in a RWD sporsedan and the difference is totally different.

and i have driven it and read the reviews. and i will state and reiterate what those reviews say..it is a good FWD SEDAN, but not a good sportsedan.. b/c it is not even a sportsedan.

it is a good FWD sedan and you will think the handling is adequate if you compare it to the altimas, the TL's and a lot of other FWD sedans (but smth like FWD Mazda MP3, RSX-S, celica GTS, mini cooper also FWD will handle much better but they arent family cars)

but if you start comparing the driving experience to the sportsedans it is very very inadequate.

and you keep mentioning the reviews as well, they all start with the premise it is a FWD, 3200lb 4cylinder sedan and evaluate it as such. using a review of TSX and say it is comparable to a 3series/IS is like me saying i read good reviews on the sienna saying it has good handling for a minivan and thus somehow conclude it is a better vehicle to drive than a TSX.

[DJ_Peanuts22]

sorry to burst anyones bubble, but the Corolla XRS seems to be a more even match for the TSX. the XRS has the ability, in fact, to outperform the TSX in some cases.

[theresa4444]

Reviews by professionals...hmmm....they keep the car a whole week?

My wife has owned in the past

Bmw 320
Mazda RX7
Nissan Maxima GLE

Acura TL (current car)
The TL was a bargain at $36K.
Compare the 2000 TL with the 2005 TSX, no comparison. Fit, finish, materials, hands down the TL takes it.
The Tsx belongs at $30K, no higher.
For $36K, u can be driving a Maxima

The Acura TL is a bomb car ... I love it! We also own a Volvo S60 turbo...it has lots of power for sure... but I personally prefer the handling and looks of the TL.

[gilboman]

sorry to burst anyones bubble, but the Corolla XRS seems to be a more even match for the TSX. the XRS has the ability, in fact, to outperform the TSX in some cases.

like in acceleration :lol:

[Code85]

TSX!! i have one and it drives like a dream.

[Taiphun]

Take a Scooby Legacy GT Limited out for a spin when you think you've decided on one.

I compared the A4, S60, TSX, TL, 3series and was settled on the 3 until I test drove the Legacy GT.

Ultimately, I walked away with a Subaru Legacy GT Wagon.

And it fits my 6'3" frame very well with enough room behind me for a 5'8" occupant comfortably strapped in.