The 1995 Acura Legend, produced from 1986 to 1995, was a luxury sedan and coupe that aimed to compete with established European brands. Available as a four-door sedan and a two-door coupe, key trims included the LS and GS. Its popularity stemmed from its refined driving dynamics, sophisticated engineering, and luxurious interior, offering a compelling blend of performance and comfort at a competitive price point for its segment. The 1995 model year marked the second generation of this esteemed vehicle.
The Good
The 1995 Acura Legend excelled in smooth V6 power, renowned Honda reliability, and a surprisingly spacious, quiet cabin. Its elegant design appeals to style-conscious buyers, while its dependable nature and strong value proposition resonate with the practical.
The Bad
Key weaknesses to watch for include aging automatic transmissions, potential issues with the power steering system, and the possibility of rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. Electrical gremlins can also surface in older vehicles.
1995 Acura Legend: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1995 Acura Legend primarily featured a 3.2-liter V6 engine.
- Horsepower: This V6 engine produced approximately 205 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated fuel economy for the 1995 Legend was around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: 0-60 mph times were generally in the mid-7 to low-8 second range, depending on transmission and driver.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity is not applicable for the Acura Legend, as it was not designed or equipped for towing.
- Trim-Level Features (LS):
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats with driver's memory
- Heated front seats
- Bose premium audio system
- Sunroof
- Automatic climate control
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Alloy wheels
- Cruise control
- Power windows, locks, and mirrors
- Trim-Level Features (GS - coupe specific):
- Included all LS features plus:
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Limited-slip differential (LSD)
- Unique interior trim elements
- Larger alloy wheels
- Included all LS features plus:
- Transmission: Available with a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission.
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD).
1995 Acura Legend Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1995 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | Legend |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | EAST LIBERTY |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2 L V-6 |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1995 Acura Legend Have?
The 1995 Acura Legend, while generally robust, does have some commonly reported issues. A significant concern for many owners is the longevity and reliability of the automatic transmission. Failures, especially in higher mileage vehicles, are not uncommon, and replacement or rebuilding can be costly. The power steering system can also develop leaks or become noisy over time. Another area to scrutinize is the cooling system; leaks from hoses, the radiator, or the water pump can occur, potentially leading to overheating if not addressed promptly. Electrical issues are also a possibility in older cars, including problems with window motors, door locks, and the climate control system. The Bose audio system, while premium for its time, can also develop speaker issues or amplifier failures. Regarding recalls, there have been some, often related to airbag inflators (a common issue across many manufacturers in that era) and potentially some powertrain or fuel system components depending on the specific build date. Long-term reliability, while generally good thanks to Honda's engineering, is heavily dependent on consistent maintenance. Neglected oil changes, coolant flushes, and timing belt replacements (which are crucial at recommended intervals) can lead to more serious and expensive engine damage. Rust is another concern, particularly in regions where salt is used on roads during winter. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and the undercarriage are susceptible. Specific model year issues are less pronounced for the 1995 model compared to earlier generations, as most of the kinks were worked out by the second generation. However, the general concerns listed above apply broadly.
How long will the 1995 Acura Legend last?
Based on owner data and anecdotal evidence, a well-maintained 1995 Acura Legend can easily surpass 200,000 miles, with many examples exceeding 250,000 miles. The core V6 engine is known for its durability. However, the longevity is strongly tied to meticulous maintenance. Weaknesses that tend to emerge over time include the aforementioned automatic transmission, suspension components (bushings, shocks), and exhaust systems. The cooling system also requires vigilant attention to prevent costly engine damage. Rust can significantly shorten its service life if not addressed. With diligent care, including regular fluid changes and timely repairs, these vehicles demonstrate impressive long-term durability, offering many years of reliable service.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1995 Acura Legend offered a respectable suite of technology and safety features for its era, reflecting its luxury aspirations. Standard on most trims was a premium Bose sound system, often with a multi-disc CD changer, providing good audio quality for the time. Power windows, power locks, power mirrors, and cruise control were also standard. Automatic climate control ensured consistent cabin temperature. Optional features included heated leather seats, a power moonroof, and a driver's seat with memory functions. Driver-assistance features were minimal by today's standards, but the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a significant safety advancement, helping drivers maintain steering control during hard braking. Safety was further bolstered by front airbags for the driver and passenger. While specific IIHS or NHTSA crash-test ratings for the 1995 model year might be difficult to pinpoint in easily accessible databases today, the Legend was designed with a robust unibody construction and a focus on occupant protection, typical of Acura's engineering philosophy. Its safety credentials at the time were considered competitive within the luxury sedan and coupe segment, emphasizing crumple zones and a strong passenger cell. The car also featured a tilt steering wheel for improved driver ergonomics and a tachometer and trip computer for monitoring performance and fuel consumption. The overall technological package aimed to provide a refined and comfortable driving experience, prioritizing luxury amenities over advanced electronic driver aids that would become commonplace in later decades.
What Colors Options are Available?
1995 Acura Legend Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1995 Acura Legend had an MSRP that typically ranged from around $32,000 to $40,000, depending on the body style and trim level. As with most luxury vehicles, it experienced significant depreciation in its early years. However, as it ages, the depreciation curve has flattened considerably. Currently, used 1995 Acura Legends can be found for anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000, with excellent condition, low-mileage examples fetching higher prices. Factors affecting resale value include maintenance history, overall condition (especially interior and exterior cosmetic wear), mileage, and whether it has been subjected to harsh climates (leading to rust). A well-documented maintenance record is a significant plus. The availability of the manual transmission also tends to command a slight premium among enthusiasts.
1995 Acura Legend Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1995 Acura Legend can be moderately economical, especially considering its luxury class. Insurance costs are generally reasonable for its age and market value. Fuel costs are average for a V6 engine of that era. Maintenance is where costs can fluctuate; routine services are comparable to other vehicles, but parts for certain luxury components or specialized repairs (like transmission work) can be pricier. Repair costs are also dependent on the issue; common wear items are readily available and affordable, but more complex problems can add up. Overall, it's not a prohibitively expensive car to own, but potential buyers should budget for potential repairs, particularly concerning the transmission and aging systems.
1995 Acura Legend Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1995 Acura Legend Safety Rating
NHTSA
1995 Acura Legend Insurance
Insurance for a 1995 Acura Legend is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1995 Acura Legend Compare to Other Coupe?
The 1995 Acura Legend competed in a segment that included stalwarts like the Lexus ES 300, Infiniti J30, and European offerings such as the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. In terms of performance, the Legend's V6 offered smooth power and competent acceleration, rivaling the ES 300 and J30, but generally falling slightly behind the sportier European options. Its handling was refined, balancing comfort with a degree of athleticism, particularly in the GS coupe. Features-wise, the Legend was well-equipped with luxury amenities like leather, premium audio, and automatic climate control, often matching or exceeding its Japanese competitors. Reliability was a strong suit for the Legend, benefiting from Honda's reputation, often surpassing the perceived reliability of some German rivals at the time, though the Lexus ES 300 might have a slight edge in overall long-term dependability. Price-wise, the Legend offered excellent value, typically undercutting comparable European models while delivering a similar level of luxury and performance. Similar alternatives include the aforementioned Lexus ES 300 and Infiniti J30, which offer comparable comfort and reliability. For those seeking a sportier driving experience at a similar price point, a well-maintained BMW 3 Series (E36 generation) or a Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202 generation) could be considered, though they may come with higher maintenance costs and potentially lower reliability. A slightly less luxurious but very reliable option might be a top-trim Honda Accord of the same era.
Final Verdict: Is the 1995 Acura Legend a Good Coupe?
The 1995 Acura Legend is ideal for individuals seeking a dependable, luxurious, and stylish used sedan or coupe that offers a premium driving experience without the steep depreciation of newer luxury vehicles. It's a strong contender for those who prioritize smooth V6 power, a comfortable ride, and Honda's renowned reliability. It is definitely worth buying, particularly in the used market, provided it has a thorough maintenance history. Opting for a well-maintained example with fewer miles is always preferable. The GS coupe is particularly attractive to enthusiasts for its sportier tuning. Potential buyers should be aware of and budget for potential transmission issues and factor in the cost of any necessary repairs to ensure long-term enjoyment of this classic Japanese luxury car.