VDCACL9699 is the Vertical Doors, Inc. vehicle-specific Vertical Door Conversion Kit for listed 1996-1999 Acura CL 2-door coupe applications. The system retains the original front doors and creates the traditional VDI movement: each door opens outward first, then raises vertically. This conversion is also commonly described as a Lambo door kit or scissor door kit.
Give the First-Generation Acura CL a More Distinctive Coupe Profile
The first-generation Acura CL has a clean two-door shape with long side glass and a straightforward coupe profile. Raising the original doors vertically adds a stronger visual feature without replacing the factory door shells or changing the car into a universal-hinge project.
The converted doors still open outward first for normal entry and exit. When raised at a meet, show, photo stop, or weekend drive, they give the CL a presentation that is noticeably different from the sedan-based vehicles often seen from the same period.
For a 2.2CL, 2.3CL, or 3.0CL build, the conversion creates a visible exterior change while preserving the recognizable first-generation CL body.
The VDI Support Promise
We are here before, during, and after your purchase.
Vertical Doors, Inc. can help with fitment questions before you order, installation guidance while the kit is being installed, and product support after the conversion is complete.
You are purchasing this system directly from Vertical Doors, Inc., the company that manufactures, supports, and stands behind it. If you have a question about fitment, installation, adjustment, replacement parts, or the product itself, the VDI team is here to help.
For current support hours and contact options, call 951-245-8669 or contact the VDI team.
Confirmed Acura CL Fitment
VDI catalog fitment covers 1996-1999 Acura CL 2-door models. Acura's U.S. heritage material identifies the CL as a coupe introduced for the 1997 model year, so owners of a 1996-titled or non-U.S.-market vehicle should contact VDI before ordering.
Fitment is determined by the exact VDI application, model year, and body configuration,not by a shared engine, trim name, or platform alone. Contact VDI before purchasing if the vehicle has aftermarket bodywork, modified fenders, prior collision repair, or an uncertain configuration.
Acura CL Vertical Door Kit Product Details
- Manufacturer: Vertical Doors, Inc.
- Part Number: VDCACL9699
- Product Type: Vehicle-specific Vertical Door Conversion Kit
- Vehicle: 1996-1999 Acura CL
- Body Style: 2-door coupe
- Door Movement: Opens outward first, then raises vertically
- Original Doors Retained: Yes
- Mounting: Vehicle-specific system based on the factory hinge area
- Manufacturing: Made in the USA from domestic hardened steel
Chassis / Platform and Trim Guide
First-generation Acura CL coupe. Confirm the model year, 2-door body style, and front-door configuration before purchase.
Vehicle Identification and Technical Reference
- Vehicle: Acura CL
- Generation: First generation CL
- VDI fitment years: 1996-1999
- Official U.S. model years: 1997-1999
- Body style: 2-door coupe
- Engine layout: Transverse front engine
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Engines: 2.2L or 2.3L inline-four and 3.0L V6, depending on model year
- Transmissions: Manual or automatic, depending on engine and model year
Trims, Body Styles, and Configurations
- 2.2CL, 2.3CL, and 3.0CL model designations appear across this generation.
- Engine, transmission, and equipment differences identify the vehicle but do not independently confirm hinge fitment.
- A 1996-titled or non-U.S.-market CL requires VDI confirmation because Acura identifies the U.S. CL from model year 1997.
Fitment note: Chassis, architecture, construction, engine, drivetrain, transmission, body-style, trim, and package terminology is provided to help identify the vehicle. It does not expand the confirmed VDI application or guarantee kit interchangeability.
When uncertain, contact Vertical Doors, Inc. with the model year, exact model or trim, body style, and clear photographs of the front hinge and fender area.
Why Choose a Genuine Vertical Doors, Inc. Kit?
- Vehicle-specific engineering for the listed 1996-1999 Acura CL application
- Retains the original front doors
- Made in the USA from domestic hardened steel
- Vehicle-specific installation instructions are included
- Technical support is available before, during, and after installation
- Replacement-component assistance is available directly from VDI
What Comes in the Kit
- One driver-side Vertical Doors, Inc. hinge assembly
- One passenger-side Vertical Doors, Inc. hinge assembly
- Two gas shocks
- Required mounting hardware
- Vehicle-specific installation instructions
VDI Support Included With Your Purchase
- Fitment assistance before ordering
- Installation and adjustment guidance
- Product-operation assistance
- Replacement-component assistance when needed
- Post-purchase product support from Vertical Doors, Inc.
How Does the Vertical Door Kit Work?
The conversion replaces the factory hinge system while retaining the original doors. Open each door outward until it reaches the hinge system's predetermined stopping point, then raise it vertically. The included gas shocks assist with the weight of the door during the lifting motion.
Proper installation and adjustment are essential for panel clearance, door alignment, latch operation, wiring clearance, and consistent opening and closing.
Does Installation Require Modification?
Yes. This is a vehicle-specific bolt-on hinge conversion, but bolt-on does not mean modification-free.
- Body-panel removal is typically required.
- Non-visible trimming or clearance work is commonly required for hinge-arm movement.
- Additional wiring slack or application-specific wiring work may be required.
- Door alignment, hinge stops, gas shocks, wiring clearance, latch operation, and surrounding panel clearances must be checked and adjusted correctly.
Before loosening or removing the original hinges, use 2-inch painter's tape to mark the door's factory alignment. Place tape across the door and adjacent body at several reference points, including near the hinges and firewall, then draw matching alignment lines across the tape. These marks help preserve the door's original horizontal and vertical position during installation.
If you are not experienced with door alignment, body-panel removal, wiring clearance, trimming, and hinge adjustment, use a qualified installer. Read the complete vehicle-specific instructions before beginning.
Before You Order
Confirm the exact vehicle application before purchasing, especially if the Acura has aftermarket bodywork, previous collision repair, modified fenders, or a non-U.S.-market configuration. Review the current shipping policy and refund policy before ordering and before beginning installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is VDCACL9699 a universal Lambo door kit?
No. VDCACL9699 is a vehicle-specific VDI application for the listed 1996-1999 Acura CL. A similar platform, engine, or trim name does not make another vehicle compatible.
Does the conversion replace the original Acura doors?
No. The system retains the original doors and changes the hinge movement.
Does bolt-on mean no trimming or adjustment is required?
No. Bolt-on describes the vehicle-specific mounting design. Installation commonly requires body-panel removal, non-visible clearance work, wiring management, hinge adjustment, and final door alignment.
What should I provide if fitment is uncertain?
Send VDI the model year, exact model and trim, body style, and clear photographs of the front hinge and fender area before ordering.
What support is available after purchase?
Vertical Doors, Inc. provides fitment, installation, adjustment, maintenance, and replacement-component support. VDI support does not end when the order ships.
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“Vertical Doors Inc is the original name in the game when it comes to Lambo Doors. I had the pleasure of buying their kit for my 2014 C7. I highly recommend getting the install done by them as the process is quite extensive! They had me in and out in one day. No door gaps to speak of and the hinges feel smooth and strong. Don't try doing the kit at home, let the pros do it for you. They also gave me a deal on some beautiful true carbon fiber skirts made in house! Shout out to their sibling company California SuperCoupes.”
“I was having trouble with my C8 Door after a terrible attempt at install by another company (Eikon Motorsports). I called Vertical Doors and Danny was able to be a hugeeeee help. He got me in right away, told me exactly what the problem was, knowledgeable, extremely responsive, and communicated with me the whole way through. I cant say enough of the team there. I wish I would have come to them in the first place.”
Ordered my 2018 SS Camaro kit during the COVID crises. The team worked hard to get my kit to me during this critical time. I am so pleased with the new look. It took my Camaro to a new level. Great craftsmanship and best kit anywhere. - TJ from Florida
“I have ordered and self installed a C7 Corvette Vertical door kit on my convertible. The kit is a top quality product and great tech help if needed. I am looking forward to doing a C8 install later this year. Just waiting on my Corvette to be made and delivered.”
I have ordered and self installed a C7 Corvette Vertical door kit on my convertible. The kit is a top quality product and great tech help if needed. I am looking forward to doing a C8 install later this year. Just waiting on my Corvette to be made and delivered.
