1997 Acura CL Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1997 Acura CL varies between 1390 kg (3064 lbs) and 1465 kg (3229 lbs), depending on the trim and options. This weight range reflects differences in engine types, equipment levels, and optional features. The relatively light weight contributes to the car's agile handling and responsiveness on the road.

The Acura CL offers a luggage capacity of 340 liters (approximately 12 cubic feet), which is quite practical for a two-door coupe. This trunk space is enough for daily commuting needs, weekend trips, or grocery runs, though it might be limited for larger luggage sets or extensive cargo typically handled by bigger sedans or SUVs.

The 1997 Acura CL comes equipped with 16-inch rims fitted with 205/55 R16 tires. This sizing offers a good balance of ride comfort, grip, and handling. The tire profile ensures adequate sidewall height, providing cushioning over rough roads while maintaining responsive cornering dynamics typical for a sporty coupe.

Yes, the 1997 Acura CL fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Considering its dimensions—4825 mm (189.8 inches) long, 1780 mm (70.1 inches) wide, and 1390 mm (54.7 inches) tall—it is compact enough for typical garage widths (often around 2.4 to 3 meters or 8 to 10 feet wide) and lengths (about 5.5 to 6 meters or 18 to 20 feet long). This ensures that average homeowners can park the vehicle indoors without spatial concerns.

The 1997 Acura CL marked Acura's first use of the CL name in coupe form after replacing the coupe variant of the Legend. Compared to the earlier Legend coupe, the CL was slightly larger in length and width, offering a more spacious interior and a modern design. The increased curb weight reflected added features and structural enhancements, while retaining a sporty yet comfortable driving experience. Overall, the CL improved on passenger and cargo space while maintaining the coupe's sleek styling.

In comparison to other mid-size coupes from the 1990s like the Lexus SC 300/400 or the BMW 3 Series coupe (E36), the 1997 Acura CL is competitively sized. Its length of 4825 mm (189.8 inches) is slightly longer than many competitors, offering more cabin and trunk space. Its width of 1780 mm (70.1 inches) is fairly standard, providing sufficient shoulder room without compromising aerodynamics. The weight aligns with others in this category, combining solid build quality with nimble handling.

With a height of 1390 mm (54.7 inches), the 1997 Acura CL has a low-slung profile typical of sporty coupes, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency and visual appeal. This lower stance improves handling by lowering the center of gravity but might reduce headroom for taller passengers. Ground clearance is moderate for a coupe of its type, allowing it to handle everyday urban and suburban roads comfortably, but care should be taken on steep driveways or rough terrain to avoid scraping.

The 1997 Acura CL offers a fairly spacious interior for a coupe, providing comfortable seating for four passengers. The increased exterior dimensions allow for reasonably good legroom and shoulder room, especially for front occupants. Rear seating is more suitable for shorter trips or smaller passengers, as typical with two-door coupes. The cabin's design emphasizes driver ergonomics and luxury touches, adding to overall comfort.

The 1997 Acura CL represented a significant step forward for Acura's coupe offerings by combining luxury, performance, and improved space in a single package. It introduced more refined styling and updated technology compared to its predecessor Legend coupe. Engine options and safety features were enhanced, making it a solid choice for buyers seeking a sporty yet practical mid-size coupe. Its balance of comfort, performance, and everyday usability set it apart from competitors.