Acura CL 1997-1999 Drivetrain Specifications
Acura CL 1997-1999

Acura CL 1997-1999 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 1997-1999 Acura CL drivetrain system, including transmission, differential, drive shaft, and torque specifications. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated

1997-1999 Acura CL Drivetrain Specifications Specifications

This document provides a detailed overview of the drivetrain specifications for the 1997-1999 Acura CL. It includes key components such as the engine, transmission, drivetrain, and performance metrics. Use this guide to understand the technical details of the vehicle's drivetrain system, compare specifications, and make informed decisions for maintenance or upgrades.

How to Use

To find specific information, use the search functionality by typing keywords related to the drivetrain components (e.g., 'engine,' 'transmission,' or 'horsepower'). Results will highlight relevant sections.

Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the table of contents. Each section provides detailed subsections with technical specifications and key points.

Key Specifications

Engine Type

2.2L I4 / 3.0L V6

Horsepower

145 HP / 200 HP

Torque

152 lb-ft / 195 lb-ft

Transmission

4-speed Auto / 5-speed Manual

Drivetrain

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Available Specifications

Engine Specifications

This section details the engine specifications for the 1997-1999 Acura CL, including displacement, horsepower, torque, and fuel type.

Engine Overview
  • 2.2L inline-4 cylinder engine (base model)
  • 3.0L V6 engine (premium model)
  • Horsepower: 145 HP @ 5,600 RPM (2.2L) / 200 HP @ 5,800 RPM (3.0L)
  • Torque: 152 lb-ft @ 4,500 RPM (2.2L) / 195 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM (3.0L)
  • Fuel type: Premium unleaded gasoline

Transmission Specifications

This section provides details on the transmission options available for the 1997-1999 Acura CL, including the type and key features.

Transmission Overview
  • 4-speed automatic transmission (available on all models)
  • 5-speed manual transmission (optional on 2.2L model)
  • Overdrive gear for improved fuel efficiency
  • SportShift feature on automatic models for manual shifting

Drivetrain Specifications

This section outlines the drivetrain configuration and related components for the 1997-1999 Acura CL.

Drivetrain Overview
  • Front-wheel drive (FWD) layout
  • Electronic traction control system
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Independent suspension for improved handling

Performance Metrics

This section includes performance metrics such as acceleration and top speed for the 1997-1999 Acura CL.

Performance Overview
  • 0-60 mph acceleration: 7.5 seconds (3.0L V6 model)
  • Top speed: 125 mph (electronically limited)
  • Fuel economy: 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway (automatic)
  • Fuel economy: 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (manual)

Technical Features

This section highlights key technical features of the drivetrain system for the 1997-1999 Acura CL.

Technical Features Overview
  • VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) on 3.0L V6
  • Dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design
  • Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system
  • 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
  • MacPherson strut front suspension

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Configuration
Transverse engine layout
Engine
2.2L inline-4 or 2.3L inline-4
Transmission
4-speed automatic
Differential
Viscous coupling center differential

Dimensions

Engine Length
17.4 inches (442 mm)
Engine Width
16.5 inches (419 mm)
Engine Height
24.8 inches (630 mm)
Transmission Length
14.8 inches (376 mm)
Transmission Width
12.2 inches (310 mm)
Transmission Height
8.5 inches (216 mm)
Driveshaft Length
60.2 inches (1529 mm)

Materials

Engine Block
Cast iron
Cylinder Head
Aluminum alloy
Transmission Case
Aluminum alloy
Differential Housing
High-strength steel
Driveshaft
High-strength steel with CV joints

Features

Engine Features
  • VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
  • Multi-point fuel injection
Transmission Features
  • 4-speed automatic with adaptive shift control
  • Torque converter with lock-up clutch
  • Electronic control module (ECM) for transmission
Differential Features
  • Viscous coupling for smooth torque transfer
  • Lightweight design for improved fuel efficiency
  • Quiet operation with fluid-filled coupling
Driveshaft Features
  • High-strength steel construction
  • CV (Constant Velocity) joints for smooth power delivery
  • Balanced design for reduced vibration
Suspension Features
  • MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Double-wishbone rear suspension
  • Stabilizer bars front and rear

Safety Features

Traction Control
  • Electronic traction control system (ETCS)
  • Wheel speed sensors for stability
  • Throttle control reduction during wheel slip
Braking System
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
  • Brake assist system
Structural integrity
  • Reinforced front subframe
  • High-strength steel in critical areas
  • Crush zones to absorb collision energy

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Sound-insulating engine mounts
  • Acoustic dampening materials in drivetrain components
  • Vibration-isolating transmission mounts
Smooth Operation
  • Smooth acceleration with adaptive transmission
  • Low vibration through balanced components
  • Quiet operation during cruising
Ergonomic Design
  • Lightweight steering for improved maneuverability
  • Optimized pedal placement for driver comfort
  • Effortless gear shifts with electronic controls

Accessories

Transmission Accessories
  • Transmission fluid cooler
  • Automatic transmission filter
  • Transmission pan gasket
Driveshaft Accessories
  • Driveshaft center bearing
  • CV joint grease kit
  • Driveshaft heat shield
Engine Accessories
  • Engine oil filter
  • Spark plug wires
  • Drive belts (serpentine belt)

Maintenance

Service interval
15,000 miles (24,140 km) or 12 months
Service Items
  • Engine oil change
  • Transmission fluid check
  • Driveshaft CV joint inspection
  • Differential fluid check
  • Tire rotation
  • Brake system inspection
Maintenance Notes
  • Use Honda ATF DW-1 transmission fluid
  • Replace engine oil filter at each service
  • Inspect driveshaft and CV joints for wear
  • Check differential fluid level and condition

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 36000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 70000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: 50000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Perforation of body panels
Emissions Warranty
Miles: 150000 miles
Years: 15 years
Coverage: Emissions control devices

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Manufacturing Process
  • Engine block casting
  • Cylinder head machining
  • Transmission assembly
  • Differential assembly
  • Driveshaft balancing
Quality Control
inspection Checklist: Dimensional checks, Leak testing, Performance testing, Noise and vibration testing
Certification Process: ISO 9001:2015 certified
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycling of metal scraps
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
  • Reduced emissions during production
Production Metrics
Annual Production: Over 50,000 units per year
Manufacturing Lead Time: 6-8 weeks
Supplier Network: Global network of over 200 suppliers

Service Information for Drivetrain Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Engine oil and filter replacement
  • Transmission fluid level check
  • Driveshaft and CV joint inspection
  • Tire rotation
  • Brake system inspection

Inspection of drivetrain components recommended

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Replace air filter
  • Inspect and replace drive belts
  • Check differential fluid level
  • Inspect transmission pan gasket
  • Check engine mounts

More extensive inspection of drivetrain components

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace transmission fluid
  • Replace engine coolant
  • Inspect driveshaft center bearing
  • Replace CV joint grease
  • Check differential bearings

Major service interval for drivetrain components

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of drivetrain does the 1997-1999 Acura CL use?

The 1997-1999 Acura CL is equipped with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system. The base model features a 2.2L inline-4 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.0L V6 model uses a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Q2

What is the torque capacity of the drivetrain in the 1997-1999 Acura CL?

The 2.2L inline-4 engine produces 145 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0L V6 engine generates 206 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain is designed to handle these torque outputs efficiently, ensuring smooth power delivery to the front wheels.

Q3

How often should the drivetrain components be inspected?

Drivetrain components, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differential (if applicable), should be inspected every 30,000 miles or as specified in the owner's manual. Regular inspections help identify wear and tear, leaks, or damage early.

Q4

What type of transmission fluid is recommended for the 1997-1999 Acura CL?

For the 4-speed automatic transmission, use Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or equivalent. For the 5-speed automatic transmission, Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 or DW-1 fluid is recommended. Always refer to the owner's manual for the exact specifications.

Q5

Can the 1997-1999 Acura CL be converted to all-wheel drive (AWD)?

No, the 1997-1999 Acura CL was not designed for all-wheel drive (AWD) conversion. The vehicle's chassis, drivetrain, and suspension are specifically engineered for front-wheel drive (FWD), and converting to AWD would require extensive modifications that are not recommended.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

1997-1999 Acura CL Owner's Manual

Coming Soon

The official owner's manual provides detailed information on drivetrain maintenance, specifications, and service intervals.

Acura Transmission Fluid Guide

Coming Soon

A comprehensive guide to selecting the correct transmission fluid for your 1997-1999 Acura CL.

Drivetrain Maintenance Checklist

Coming Soon

A step-by-step checklist for inspecting and maintaining the drivetrain components of your Acura CL.

Common Drivetrain Issues and Solutions

Coming Soon

Learn about common drivetrain problems in the 1997-1999 Acura CL and how to address them.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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