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Acura Legend: Honda's luxury sedan and coupe
Acura Legend — a premium sedan and coupe, introduced by Honda's luxury brand Acura in 1986. In Europe, this car was sold as the Honda Legend. We look at its generations, engines, and what to know if you're after one of these.
Legend in brief
The Legend was Honda's attempt to compete with luxury sedans. It offered a V6 engine, a comfortable interior, and a generous equipment list at a significantly lower price than its German rivals.
In Asia and Europe, this model was known as the Honda Legend, while in North America, it was called the Acura Legend. In Lithuania, you might find it as the Honda Legend, or as an Acura if it's an imported car from the US.
Generations — what's the difference
The first generation (1986–1990) featured an angular, sharp design and came with 2.5 and 2.7-litre V6 engines. It's considered slightly more basic but well-regarded for its reliability.
The second generation (1991–1995) became smoother and more luxurious. It had a 3.2-litre V6 engine, producing around 200hp, before this model was replaced by the RL.
Engines and gearboxes
The first generation used a 2.5-litre, later a 2.7-litre V6 petrol engine, producing around 160hp. The second generation featured a 3.2-litre V6, around 200hp. All engines had a timing belt.
The gearbox was automatic or manual (more common in coupe versions). Drive is to the front wheels.
What to check when buying a Legend
First off — check the timing belt. Legend engines have a timing belt that needs replacing at intervals specified by the manufacturer, so ask for proof that this has been done. A failed belt can wreck the engine.
Second — the automatic gearbox and electronics: in older cars, functions like window lifts, air conditioning, or the instrument cluster may be glitchy.
Generations and body styles
Legend trim names vary by market, so we list the generations and body types.
I karta sedanas
1986–1990The first-generation four-door sedan with a V6 engine.
- A 2.5 or 2.7-litre V6 engine
- Rugged design
- Often comes with leather and high-end trim
I karta kupė
1987–1990Two-door version.
- Sportier looks
- Often comes with a manual gearbox
- The same V6 engine
II karta
1991–1995A rounder, more luxurious generation.
- 3.2-litre V6, around 200hp
- More comfort
- Coupe and sedan
Generation comparison
| I karta sedanas | I karta kupė | II karta | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For classic car enthusiasts | For the sportier classic | For comfort |
| Engine | 2.5–2.7-litre V6 | 2.5–2.7-litre V6 | 3.2-litre V6 |
| Body style | Sedan | Coupe | Sedan or Coupe |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the second generation with the 3.2-litre engine: more power and comfort. The first generation is worth considering as a collectible classic.
Pros
- Reliable and long-lasting V6 engine
- Generous equipment for its time
- Front-wheel drive and good comfort
- Honda's reputation for reliability
Cons
- Very hard to find parts
- Regular maintenance of the timing belt is mandatory
- Old age and rust
Frequently asked questions
Is the Acura Legend and Honda Legend the same?
Yes, it's the same car with different names in different markets.
How much power does the Legend have?
First up, around 160 hp, then with the 3.2-litre engine — around 200 hp.
Is the Legend reliable?
Often yes, if the timing belt is regularly replaced and maintenance is carried out. The key is a clean history.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
