In 1986, Legend was launched as the Acura flagship along with the new brand. The upscale model featured something never before seen on a Honda vehicle, a V-6 engine. The Legend's larger cabin, power everything, a standard moonroof, and cruise control set it apart from run-of-the-mill Civics and Accords. Acura offered two body styles: a stylish two-door coupe and a four-door sedan, like this 1990 example recently offered for sale on eBay.
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Acura Legend: Just Call it Honda Plus
Japanese carmakers were firing on all cylinders in the mid-1980s, churning out many of the cars sought-after by collectors today. But the companies were at an impasse. The best models couldn’t be sold in the U.S. because market research showed that there was a price ceiling for brands like Toyota and Nissan. Customers simply weren’t willing to pay for what was perceived as a mainstream badge.
The solution was to launch completely new marques, with new dealership networks and premium ownership experiences. Honda was first out of the gate with Acura. Toyota’s Lexus and Nissan’s Infiniti would soon follow. Even so, the initial outcry was deafening. “$25,000 for a Honda!” was a common refrain. That seems ridiculous today, when Toyota has sold a Land Cruiser starting at almost $90,000, and Nissan has sold a GT-R NISMO for more than $210,000.
Acura was an instant hit, a marriage of Honda ergonomics and durability with deluxe materials and finish. The Legend won Motor Trend's “Import Car of the Year” in 1987 and the coupe was chosen for Car and Driver's “Ten Best” list for three consecutive years from 1988-1990. Naysayers still existed, but open-minded early adopters were converted into Acura evangelists. In fact, the Legend name began to carry more cachet than Acura itself (the only other car offered was the smaller four-cylinder Integra - opens in new window or tab.). To this day, the Legend name resonates with a certain segment of Honda/Acura fans, even though the name hasn’t been used since 1995 when Acura decided to go with an alphanumeric naming structure.
The Car, The Brand, The Legend.
For those who want one of the finest cars Honda built—its first foray into the highly competitive world of luxury autos—the Acura Legend for sale in Carmel, California - opens in new window or tab., is as close to pristine an example you’ll be likely to find. With only 45,000 miles on the clock, the listing says the car has had only a single owner, a grandma who kept it in a climate-controlled garage.
The Legend L is a mid-level trim, but still comes with the important amenities:
- Anti-lock brakes
- Power driver’s seat
- Leather upholstery
- Automatic climate control
The Acura Legend's top trim level added a power passenger seat and Bose stereo system. Although those won’t enhance the driving experience. Some may want to hold out for a manual transmission or coupe. But they’ll likely come with a higher price tag than this car’s $11,999.99 Buy It Now price.
Today, that $25,000 Honda would be worth $67,000. No one blinks twice at the thought of a Japanese car costing that much, and indeed many carry much higher prices. Acura itself has sold a $157,000 NSX supercar - opens in new window or tab.. This is an opportunity to get a piece of the “legend” that started it all.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.