Brief Introduction of Acura Legend
The Acura Legend is a mid-size luxury car that holds a significant place in automotive history as the flagship model for Honda’s luxury brand, Acura, upon its launch. Produced from 1985 to 1995, the Legend was available as a four-door sedan and a two-door coupe. It was one of the first Japanese luxury cars to compete with established European and American brands, and its success helped pave the way for other Japanese luxury marques like Lexus and Infiniti. The Legend is renowned for its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features for its time, offered across two distinct generations with several variants and updates throughout its production run. After 1995, the Legend was succeeded by the Acura RL.
Acura Legend Overview
| Brand | Acura |
| Model | Legend |
| Launch Year | 1986 (in North America) |
| Price | Not publicly available (discontinued model) |
| Variants | Base, L, LS, GS (Sedan); L, LS (Coupe) |
| Body Type | Sedan, Coupe |
| Engine | 2.5L V6, 2.7L V6, 3.2L V6 |
| Power & Torque | 151-230 hp |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Mileage | Information not disclosed |
| Colors | Not publicly available |
| Safety Rating | Not publicly available |
| Dimensions | Information not disclosed |
| Boot Space | Information not disclosed |
Generations and History of Acura Legend
First Generation (1986–1990)
The first-generation Acura Legend was introduced in North America for the 1986 model year, marking the debut of the Acura brand. Initially available as a sedan, it was powered by a 151-horsepower 2.5-liter V6 engine, which was the first V6 engine in a production Honda vehicle. A two-door coupe model was added in 1987, featuring a more powerful 161-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 engine; this larger engine was subsequently adopted by the sedan in 1988. The Legend was praised for its sophisticated engineering, smooth performance, and high-quality materials. Standard features included power windows, a power sunroof, and a premium stereo system. The first generation set a strong foundation for Acura, establishing it as a credible competitor in the luxury car segment.
Second Generation (1991–1995)
The second-generation Legend, launched in October 1990 for the 1991 model year, represented a significant step up in terms of size, refinement, and performance. It featured a more streamlined, “fuselage” design and a longitudinally mounted 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 200 horsepower, a layout unusual for a front-wheel-drive car. This generation offered more luxury features, including available leather upholstery, a Bose sound system, and automatic climate control. In 1993, the coupe received a “Type II” engine variant with 230 horsepower, paired with an optional six-speed manual transmission. A new top-tier “GS” sedan trim was introduced in 1994, which also featured the more powerful Type II engine and a standard six-speed manual transmission. This generation further solidified the Legend’s reputation for performance and luxury, though it faced increasing competition.
Discontinuation and Successor
Despite its success, Acura decided to rename its flagship sedan after the 1995 model year. The company believed that the “Legend” name was becoming more recognized than the Acura brand itself. This led to the introduction of the Acura RL (an abbreviation for “Refined Luxury”) for the 1996 model year, which was based on the third-generation Honda Legend. The Acura CL coupe was later introduced as a replacement for the Legend coupe. While the Legend nameplate was discontinued in North America, the Honda Legend continued to be sold in other markets.
Acura Legend Facelifts and Yearly Updates
| Year | Change / Update |
| 1987 | Coupe model introduced with a 2.7L V6 engine. Driver’s side airbag became available, a first for a Japanese car. |
| 1988 | Sedan models received the larger 2.7L V6 engine. |
| 1989 | The sedan received a minor facelift with new one-piece headlamps, a new front bumper, new taillights, and a revised trunk lid. A driver’s side airbag became standard on all models. |
| 1990 | All models received body-colored side mirrors. Coupes got a revised grille, new taillights, and improved front seats. |
| 1991 | Second generation launched with a new 3.2L V6 engine and a larger, more aerodynamic body. |
| 1993 | Coupe models received an optional 230-hp “Type II” engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. |
| 1994 | A new GS sedan trim was introduced, featuring the 230-hp Type II engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. |
Acura Legend Variants and Features
Throughout its production, the Acura Legend was offered in several trim levels that catered to different customer preferences. The first generation was available in a standard trim, which was later joined by more upscale L and LS trims. These higher-end models included features like leather seats, a premium Bose sound system, and a power driver’s seat with memory. The second generation continued with the L and LS trims and introduced a base model for the sedan in its initial years. The top-of-the-line GS sedan, introduced later, was the most performance-oriented variant, equipped with the more powerful Type II engine, sport-tuned suspension, and larger wheels.
Acura Legend Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience
The first-generation Legend was powered by a 2.5-liter V6 engine that was later upgraded to a 2.7-liter V6, providing smooth and adequate power for its class. The driving experience was characterized by its comfortable ride and predictable handling. The introduction of the second generation brought a significant performance upgrade with its 3.2-liter V6 engine, which delivered a more spirited driving experience. The longitudinal engine mounting in the second generation contributed to better weight distribution and improved handling dynamics. The availability of a manual transmission in both generations, particularly the six-speed manual in the second-generation coupe and GS sedan, appealed to driving enthusiasts and set the Legend apart from many of its competitors.
Acura Legend Pricing and Mileage
As a discontinued model, current pricing for the Acura Legend is subject to the used car market, with values varying based on condition, mileage, and rarity. When new, the Legend was competitively priced within the luxury segment. For instance, a 1991 Legend Coupe had an MSRP of around $30,900. Real-world mileage would depend on driving habits and the specific model year and transmission. Detailed historical data on original pricing and EPA mileage estimates are not readily available. Maintenance costs are generally considered reasonable for a luxury vehicle of its era, benefiting from Honda’s reputation for reliability.
Acura Legend Colors, Design, and Dimensions
The exterior design of the first-generation Acura Legend was clean and understated, reflecting the conservative styling of the late 1980s. The second generation adopted a more aggressive and aerodynamic look, with a sleek, low-slung profile and a more muscular stance. The interior of both generations was well-appointed, with high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout. Specific color options and detailed dimensions for all variants are not readily available in current public records.
Acura Legend Safety Features
- Airbags: The Acura Legend was a pioneer in safety, being one of the first Japanese cars to offer a driver’s side airbag, which later became standard.
- ABS / EBD: Four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available and became standard on later models, enhancing driver control during emergency braking.
- Electronic Stability Control: Not available during the production run of the Acura Legend.
- Crash Test Ratings: Historical crash test ratings from agencies like the NHTSA or IIHS are not readily available for the Acura Legend.
- Other advanced safety systems: Some models featured seatbelt pretensioners.
Acura Legend Infotainment and Connectivity
For its time, the Acura Legend was well-equipped with advanced infotainment features. Both generations offered premium sound systems, with the Bose audio system being a popular option on higher trims. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio and a cassette player. A trunk-mounted CD changer was also available on later models. While modern connectivity features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were not available, some second-generation models even offered an in-car telephone.
Acura Legend Owner Reviews & Ratings
The Acura Legend has generally received positive reviews from owners over the years, who often praise its reliability, performance, and comfort. The build quality and durability of the V6 engines are frequently cited as strong points. Some owners of the second-generation models have noted the complexity of certain repairs due to the longitudinal engine layout. Overall, the Legend is remembered as a well-engineered and enjoyable luxury car that offered a compelling alternative to its European rivals.
Acura Legend Comparison with Similar Cars
During its production, the Acura Legend competed with other mid-size luxury sedans and coupes, including the Lexus ES, Infiniti J30, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Compared to its Japanese rivals, the Legend often offered a sportier driving experience, especially with the available manual transmission. Against its German competitors, the Legend provided a high level of standard features and a strong reputation for reliability at a competitive price point.
Acura Legend Awards and Recognition
- Car and Driver’s 10Best list: The Acura Legend was named to this prestigious list multiple times.
- MotorTrend’s Import Car of the Year: The first-generation Legend Coupe won this award.
Interesting Facts about Acura Legend
- The Acura Legend was the first production vehicle from Honda to feature a V6 engine.
- The second-generation Legend featured a longitudinally mounted engine, which is uncommon for a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
- The success of the Acura Legend was a major factor in prompting Toyota and Nissan to launch their own luxury brands, Lexus and Infiniti.
Acura Legend Legacy and Influence
The Acura Legend played a pivotal role in establishing Acura as a legitimate luxury brand in North America. Its combination of performance, luxury, and reliability challenged the dominance of European manufacturers and demonstrated that Japanese automakers could compete at the highest levels of the market. The Legend’s success had a lasting impact, influencing the development of subsequent Acura models and shaping the landscape of the luxury car market in the United States.
Acura Legend Global Availability
The Acura Legend was primarily sold in the United States and Canada. In Japan and other markets, the same vehicle was sold as the Honda Legend. All Acura Legend models were manufactured in Japan.
Acura Legend Maintenance and Ownership Costs
As a vintage luxury car, maintenance costs for an Acura Legend can vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s condition and the availability of parts. While the powertrain is known for its durability, some specific components may be difficult to source. Routine maintenance is generally in line with other Honda products of the same era. The resale value of well-maintained examples, particularly the rare six-speed manual coupes and GS sedans, has been appreciating among collectors and enthusiasts.
Final Words about Acura Legend
The Acura Legend remains a highly regarded vehicle in the history of Japanese luxury automobiles. It successfully blended performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology in a package that was both reliable and enjoyable to drive. For classic car enthusiasts and those who appreciate a well-engineered sedan or coupe, the Acura Legend represents a significant chapter in automotive history and a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess. Its legacy continues to influence the Acura brand today, and well-preserved examples are a nostalgic reminder of the golden age of Japanese luxury cars.