Luxury Sedan · Japan · 1986-1995

Acura Legend

Acura's launch model. The car that introduced Japan's luxury brands to America. Two generations, both highly regarded.

Verdict
B
Years
1986-1995
Generations
2
Segment
Luxury Sedan

The Legend launched the Acura brand in March 1986, alongside the Integra — making Acura the first Japanese luxury marque sold in America. The Legend was developed jointly with Rover (sharing platform with the Rover 800) and was an instant success, winning Car and Driver's 10Best in 1986 and 1987. First generation (1986-1990) used a 2.5L V6 (151 hp) initially, then a 2.7L V6 (161 hp); coupe and sedan bodies. Second generation (1991-1995) jumped to a 3.2L V6 (200 hp, 230 hp on the GS/Type II) — the first US-market Honda car with a six-cylinder making over 200 hp. Coupes used a longer wheelbase than sedans (unusual), and the second-gen Legend Coupe is now a quietly sought-after collector car. Replaced by the RL for 1996 — a soft, comfortable luxury car that lacked the Legend's character. Many enthusiasts argue the second-gen Legend Coupe was the best Acura sedan ever made.


Known issues by generation

Common faults reported on each generation — useful when shopping the used market.

1986-1990 · 1st Gen (KA2/KA3)
  • Distributor failure on early V6
  • Power steering pump and rack leaks
  • Climate control LCD failure
  • Power window motors
  • Rust around rear arches and sunroof on northern cars
1991-1995 · 2nd Gen (KA7/KA8)
  • Distributor failure (common Honda 90s issue)
  • Climate control LCD pixelation
  • Power antenna motor failure
  • Heater core leaks
  • Rust around rear arches, sunroof, sills

Rivals

Lexus LS / GS · Infiniti Q45 · BMW 5 Series (E34) · Mercedes E-Class (W124)