I agree, the RL is out dated, especially compared to the Lexus LS430, which is without a doubt a much better car...especially with the 4.3 290 hp V8. The RL needs the NSXs C3.2 liter to better compete. I always liked the TL better than the Lexus ES300, despite the ES300s slightly higher quality advantage, the TL was the only one of the two to offer a coupe, manual trans, and a type-s with 260 hp (270 for 04) I prefer a blend of luxury and performance. The 2004 Acura TL should be better than the current TSX in terms of build quality, and luxury amenities, and much improved from the previous model TL.

>>>>Part of my struggle had been that people telling me that their car drives like a brand new car after 100k>>>

They must be speaking in relative terms, either that, or they forgot what a brand new car feels like.

I had 2 new cars in the past 3 years, I would think I know how a new car drives... Yet my Accord is not at 100k and drives relatively poor>>>

The Accord was the first used car I bought, most of my vehicles have been brand new purchases, and there is quite a difference. But like I said, in comparison to my previous cars, the Accord doesnt feel nearly as tired and worn out as the others did at 8 years and 100k miles. I can feel plenty of life left in the Accord, and I dont hold back when I need to take it on a long road trip. I didnt trust the others any further than I could spit.

however 1/2 of this forum swears that their car drives new after so many years and so many miles>>>

Well, Ive made the comment myself... but I speak in relative terms, and I make that known. My car is well maintained, it still shines, the interior is in great condition, the engine performs great, and overall shows very little wear. My car is pretty 'new' for its age, again.. speaking in relative terms.

I even went to carmax to test drive 3 other Accords of similar specs and came down with a conclusion that those people have lowered expectation>>

I wouldnt say my expectations are lower, infact, I exptect a lot based on the car's reputation..and at times I have been dissapointed, I agree that the some of the hype is an exaggeration...but at other times, I have been truly amazed.

Unlike most people, I have no brand loyalty; I swing from manufacture to manufacture>>

Well, Im pretty much the same way... I'll go with any manufacturer that builds the car that I want, and I feel confident in buying. I feel confident in Hondas products, but I am a fan of many makes and models outside of Hondas.

So far I still haven't found one that I am confortable with. Even with the Lexus, I start to find manufacturing defects>>>

And according to the major quality surveys, Toyota and Lexus have among the fewest flaws of any auto maker. The German auto makers are having reliability issues, especially BMW...which Ive known for a while...much the reason Ive never owned a German engineered automobile even though I'd love to. But Ive learned that with very few things, can you have your cake and eat it to.