I had my car washed today and noticed the guy behind me was driving the new Acura RL SH-AWD. I’d normally never consider these cars as they tend (historically) not to handle as well as german sedans. But this car really caught my eye and I did some research. It’s a hell of a deal compared with what I thought was going to be my next car, the Audi A6 4.2L Quattro.
I have a few of misgivings about the Acura:
- Acura SOHC 6 cyl. 3.5L engine (300bhp, 260 lbs-ft)
vs.
Audi DOHC V8 4.2L engine (335bhp, 300lbs-ft)
That SOHC 6 cyl engine really has to do some work to perform close to the DOHC V8. Perhaps displacement is still best for reliability given planned 4-6 years of use?
2) Acura 60 month rust warranty
vs
Audi 144 month rust warranty.
Is rust really a problem any more for cars under 10 years of age?
3) Optioned out equally, the Acura is about $10,000 less than the Audi. However, the resale value of the audi after 5 years is 53% while the Acura is only 43% of original value.
Opinions?
I’d take “none of the above, please”, and confidently stride to the BMW dealership for a 545i. It handles better, accelerates harder, and is more fun to drive than either, while being similar in most practical aspects. You don’t need all-wheel-drive - rear-wheel-drive, a limited slip diff, and snow tires are just as good.
If I had to choose between the two, I’d take the Acura for reliability reasons - Audis, VWs and Mercedes have stunk it up as of late and a complex Audi is not what you need.
Rust just flat-out doesn’t happen anymore. I’ve seen Rust Belt cars that were flawless after 15 winters. I’d worry about old electronic brake systems myself.
Considered the 545i. The 5 was nice… until the current year model. They’ve really screwed the pooch on this one.
Normally I like the RWD platform but I’ve had a quattro platform for some time and you can’t beat it for bad weather/snow driving. Really solid.
Get a 2-year-old M5, then. I’d still prefer the E39 (old) 5-series to just about anything else out there. Heck, I’d take the E34 (1989-96) 5-series over the Audi or Acura.
All-wheel-drive withdrawal lasts until the first corner. The excitement you get when you find that there’s no understeer anymore is worth every penny.
I know what you mean. I miss being able to slide the back end, counter steer and get the front pointed in the direction I want to go. 
Plowing is no fun.
Of course, having all four corners clawing for grip has it’s thrill factor too… 
That makes two car enthusiasts on the SDMB. Do we have any more?
What SCCA region are you in?
Notheast. Area 42. (VA & MD).
Not a member, though I’ve had my car and my friend’s car out on the track a few times in Quebec.
You?