1996 Acura RL Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The 1996 RL is the first edition of the car built to replace the aging Legend. Although RL was supposed to stand for "Road Luxury," many...
The 1996 RL is the first edition of the car built to replace the aging Legend. Although RL was supposed to stand for "Road Luxury," many joked that it actually stood for "Replaces Legend."
The standard (and only) engine was a 3.5-liter V6 rated at 210 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque. No manual transmission was offered, and gas mileage was estimated at 19 city and 25 highway.
The interior has leather seats, but not a leather steering wheel. This kind of contradiction would become fairly typical for the RL: it was a car from a luxury maker, meant to compete with a Lexus, but would skimp on minor details such as a nicer steering wheel.
Drivers note that this is a very reliable car, but do not like the way it guzzles premium gas. They do not like the weaker engine, with many wishing for 8 cylinders rather than 6.
What owners say
"Owners of the 1996 Acura RL generally love its smooth and comfortable driving experience, along with its classy interior and quality build. Many drivers appreciate its reliable performance over the years, particularly how it handles highway speeds. However, some have noted that the gas mileage is only fair, and repairs can be costly, especially for certain parts. Despite this, most recommend the car to those who enjoy driving and appreciate its luxury feel."
Very under-rated car. Also under priced. High quality luxury car for affordable price used. Good acceleration, good enough handling (change stock tires), interior build quality is top notch, low noise, solid transmission. This car is good for 300k miles or more.
January 19, 2009I have owned many luxury cars.....and I tell you the ACURA RL....is at the top of my list.....for performance...low maintenace.....appearance.....its a very fun car to drive....and trust me its turns alot of heads......thing of beauty!
January 30, 2010I bought my '96 RL used in 2000 with 48k on it. I now have 229k and it is still going strong. Best car I have ever had. I've done mostly the usual repairs (tires, brakes, coil packs, etc.). It is expensive to insure and the parts are expensive but it has been great. Not the most powerful car (v6, 220 HP) but it cruises the highway effortlessly at 80 MPH and the acceleration from 40 to 80 is fine...
March 7, 2007What owners say
Very under-rated car. Also under priced. High quality luxury car for affordable price used. Good acceleration, good enough handling (change stock tires), interior build quality is top notch, low noise, solid transmission. This car is good for 300k miles or more.
January 19, 2009I have owned many luxury cars.....and I tell you the ACURA RL....is at the top of my list.....for performance...low maintenace.....appearance.....its a very fun car to drive....and trust me its turns alot of heads......thing of beauty!
January 30, 2010I bought my '96 RL used in 2000 with 48k on it. I now have 229k and it is still going strong. Best car I have ever had. I've done mostly the usual repairs (tires, brakes, coil packs, etc.). It is expensive to insure and the parts are expensive but it has been great. Not the most powerful car (v6, 220 HP) but it cruises the highway effortlessly at 80 MPH and the acceleration from 40 to 80 is fine...
March 7, 2007Daily Driver drive to and from work. Ive had this car since 2006 and havent had any major problems at all. The newer model is ok but one right after this one is better. Im happy with the cars I have.
September 20, 2009
