When a new car model comes out, it’s always interesting to see how it stacks up against its older generations. New models should be better in every aspect compared to their previous iterations, but with ever-stringent emissions regulations, is it really possible? The YouTube channel Sam CarLegion showcases just that by pitting three generations of the Acura TLX against each other in a drag race.

The contenders are a 2021 Acura TLX, 2020 Acura TLX, and a 2010 Acura TL, all of which are in A Spec trim. In case you wonder, the A Spec is a sportier trim that sits just below the Type-S. It gives sportier suspension, as well as sportier interior and exterior. In addition, all three cars have Acura’s all-wheel-drive system, SH-AWD.

The 2010 model is the only manual vehicle here, so this may hinder its performance, despite being the lightest at 3,800 pounds (1,723 kg). The 2010 TL comes with a 3.7-liter V-6 that puts out 305 horsepower and 273 pound-feet (370 Nm).

However, it has a quick-shifting nine-speed automatic, which could be the decisive factor at the quarter-mile.

For 2021, the Acura TLX has dropped the V-6. That is unless you go for the limited Type-S version. The one here is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that puts out 272 horsepower and 290 pound-feet (393 Nm). The engine is mated to a quick 10-speed automatic transmission. Despite the lack of a V-6, the 2021 TLX is the heaviest, at 3,990 pounds (1,810 kg).

For safety reasons, only two cars run at a time, with the 2020 and 2021 models being the first ones to go. The 2021 TLX’s 10-speed automatic has shorter gearing, which together with more low-end torque allows it to rocket ahead. However, the 2020 V-6 model catches up and snatches the win by about a car length.

The second race is in Sport mode and is much closer. It’s a photo finish, with the winner still being the 2020 V-6 model. The third race adds manual shifting to the mix, which results in a decisive win for the V-6 car. Although the 2021 TLX consistently makes better starts, the top-end power of the V-6 just proves too much.

This is where it gets interesting. The 2020 TLX goes up against the 2010 TL, which also has a V-6. In the first race, it looks like the older car bogs down, which secures another win for the 2020 TLX. However, in Sport mode, the 2010 TL rockets ahead, while the 2020 TLX barely catches up in the last second. That said, it looks like the 2010 car laid off the throttle a bit earlier. What do you think?