The Honda That Forced Mercedes-Benz To Pay Attention
Honda's Acura brand, launched in 1986, was the first Japanese luxury brand to challenge German premium brands with the Acura Legend, a V6-powered flagship sedan. The Legend was praised for its ride quality, fuel efficiency, and comfort, and featured advanced technologies for its time, including a multi-port fuel-injected V6 engine and four-wheel independent suspension.
Honda's Acura brand was launched in 1986 with the Legend, a V6-powered flagship sedan that challenged German premium brands. The Legend was developed through a joint venture with the UK's Austin Rover Group and featured a 2.5L V6 engine producing 161 hp. It was praised for its ride quality, fuel efficiency, and comfort, and was equipped with advanced technologies such as multi-port fuel injection and four-wheel independent suspension. The Legend was available with a four-speed automatic or manual transmission and came with a Technics-supplied 80-watt stereo and moonroof as standard. In 1987, Acura introduced a Legend coupe with a larger 2.7L V6 engine and double-wishbone rear suspension. The Legend played a significant role in establishing Acura as a major player in the luxury car market, forcing German premium brands like Mercedes-Benz to take notice.
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