The 1992 Acura Legend represents the peak of Acura's second-generation flagship luxury sedan and coupe, produced from 1991-1995. Known for its sophisticated front-wheel-drive platform, the Legend was available in L and LS trims, with new prices ranging approximately from $29,000 to $37,000. It stood out for its exceptional build quality, refined 3.2L V6 engine, luxurious interior, and a blend of performance and reliability that challenged established European luxury marques.
The Good
The 1992 Acura Legend offers a smooth V6 performance and legendary Honda reliability, appealing to practical buyers. Its spacious, quiet cabin provides exceptional comfort, while the elegant, understated design fosters an emotional connection for luxury seekers. Good fuel efficiency for its class and excellent used market value make it a smart, enduring choice.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1992 Acura Legend include potential automatic transmission failures, common power steering pump leaks, and fading climate control LCD displays. Ignition switch issues can cause electrical gremlins, and critical timing belt service is a costly but essential maintenance item to avoid major engine damage.
1992 Acura Legend: Quick Overview
- Engine: 3.2-liter SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 24-valve V6 (C32A1), longitudinally mounted.
- Horsepower: 200 hp @ 5500 rpm.
- Torque: 210 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm.
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- Manual Transmission: Approximately 18 MPG city / 24 MPG highway.
- Automatic Transmission: Approximately 17 MPG city / 22 MPG highway.
- 0-60 MPH Acceleration: Typically ranges from 7.0 to 8.0 seconds, with manual transmission coupes often on the quicker end of the spectrum.
- Towing Capacity: The 1992 Acura Legend was not officially rated or recommended for towing. It is generally advised against using it for towing purposes.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Standard Features (across most models): Automatic climate control, power windows (driver's auto-down), power door locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt steering wheel, and a premium AM/FM cassette stereo system. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) were standard.
- L Trim (Sedan & Coupe): Elevated comfort with genuine leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and often an upgraded audio system. Heated outside mirrors were also common.
- LS Trim (Sedan & Coupe): The top-tier luxury trim. Features typically included a power-adjustable passenger seat, a premium Bose sound system, and a power moonroof. The LS Sedan specifically often included traction control for enhanced safety. Coupe LS models sometimes featured unique alloy wheel designs and a subtle rear spoiler. All models benefited from Acura's sophisticated independent double-wishbone suspension at all four corners, contributing to their renowned ride comfort and handling prowess. Driver's side airbag was standard, with a passenger-side airbag becoming standard in later second-generation models.
1992 Acura Legend Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1992 |
| Make | Acura |
| Model | Legend |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | SAYAMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3486 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 55.10 inches |
| Overall Length | 194.90 inches |
| Overall Width | 71.30 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 114.60 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.2-L V-6 SOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $28,000 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1992 Acura Legend Have?
While generally reliable, the 1992 Acura Legend has some frequently reported problems that potential owners should be aware of. Perhaps the most significant concern is the automatic transmission. Units, particularly those in the 1991-1995 second-generation models, are known for premature failure, manifesting as harsh shifts, slipping, or complete loss of gears, especially at higher mileage. Regular fluid changes are crucial but do not always prevent issues.
Another common problem is power steering system leaks, often stemming from the pump itself, hoses, or the steering rack, leading to fluid loss and diminished assist. The ignition switch can also wear out, causing intermittent electrical problems, difficulty starting, or accessories failing to operate. Many owners report the climate control unit's LCD display fading or becoming illegible over time, making temperature and fan speed difficult to ascertain.
The main relay, responsible for providing power to the fuel pump and ECU, can fail, leading to intermittent no-start conditions, especially when the car is hot. Electric window regulators can also fail, requiring replacement. A critical long-term reliability concern is the timing belt service, which is due every 90,000 miles. Neglecting this expensive but vital maintenance, which often includes replacing the water pump and tensioners, can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Regarding recalls, the 1992-1993 Acura Legend models were subject to a recall concerning a potential short circuit in the air bag system, which could cause the air bag to deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in a crash. Owners should verify if this recall service was performed. Other recalls may exist for minor components. Over time, original suspension components like bushings and struts will inevitably wear, and corrosion can become a factor in regions exposed to road salt. Availability of some OEM parts is also becoming a long-term concern.
Another common problem is power steering system leaks, often stemming from the pump itself, hoses, or the steering rack, leading to fluid loss and diminished assist. The ignition switch can also wear out, causing intermittent electrical problems, difficulty starting, or accessories failing to operate. Many owners report the climate control unit's LCD display fading or becoming illegible over time, making temperature and fan speed difficult to ascertain.
The main relay, responsible for providing power to the fuel pump and ECU, can fail, leading to intermittent no-start conditions, especially when the car is hot. Electric window regulators can also fail, requiring replacement. A critical long-term reliability concern is the timing belt service, which is due every 90,000 miles. Neglecting this expensive but vital maintenance, which often includes replacing the water pump and tensioners, can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Regarding recalls, the 1992-1993 Acura Legend models were subject to a recall concerning a potential short circuit in the air bag system, which could cause the air bag to deploy inadvertently or fail to deploy in a crash. Owners should verify if this recall service was performed. Other recalls may exist for minor components. Over time, original suspension components like bushings and struts will inevitably wear, and corrosion can become a factor in regions exposed to road salt. Availability of some OEM parts is also becoming a long-term concern.
How long will the 1992 Acura Legend last?
The 1992 Acura Legend, with proper maintenance, boasts impressive long-term durability. It is common for well-cared-for examples to reach and exceed 200,000 to 250,000 miles, with many owners reporting mileage beyond 300,000. The C32A1 engine itself is exceptionally robust, often outlasting other components if the critical timing belt service is performed regularly. The body panels generally resist rust well for a vehicle of its age, and interior materials hold up commendably.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily revolve around the automatic transmission, which is often the first major component to fail, significantly impacting the car's service life. Other age-related issues include worn suspension components (struts, bushings), electrical gremlins from aging wiring and relays, and persistent power steering leaks. While the core engine and chassis are incredibly durable, these ancillary components can necessitate costly repairs as the car accumulates years and miles.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily revolve around the automatic transmission, which is often the first major component to fail, significantly impacting the car's service life. Other age-related issues include worn suspension components (struts, bushings), electrical gremlins from aging wiring and relays, and persistent power steering leaks. While the core engine and chassis are incredibly durable, these ancillary components can necessitate costly repairs as the car accumulates years and miles.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1992 Acura Legend was well-equipped for its era, offering a suite of built-in technology, entertainment, and safety features aimed at a premium driving experience.
Built-in Tech: Standard features across most trims included a sophisticated automatic climate control system, power windows with a driver's side auto-down function, power door locks, power-adjustable side mirrors, and cruise control. A tilt steering wheel allowed for driver comfort, and higher trims often featured keyless entry. The instrument cluster was clear and well-designed, emphasizing ease of use.
Entertainment: The standard entertainment system comprised an AM/FM cassette stereo. Higher trims, particularly the LS, boasted an upgraded premium Bose sound system, renowned for its sound quality at the time. A trunk-mounted CD changer was an available optional feature, allowing for multi-disc playback. A power antenna was also standard.
Driver-Assistance: The primary driver-assistance feature was the standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which significantly improved braking control in adverse conditions. Traction control was an advanced feature offered as standard on the LS Sedan trim, helping to prevent wheel spin during acceleration on slippery surfaces. More advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were not available in this vehicle class in 1992.
Safety Features: Safety was a priority, with a driver's side airbag being standard across all 1992 Legend models. Front seatbelt pre-tensioners were included to enhance occupant restraint. The robust chassis incorporated side-impact door beams for added protection, and rear doors featured child safety locks.
Crash-Test Ratings: Comprehensive crash-test ratings as we know them today (e.g., specific frontal and side-impact star ratings) were not widely standardized or readily available for individual vehicles in 1992 by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. While the Legend met all contemporary safety standards and included a driver's airbag, its crash performance would likely not align with modern vehicle safety standards due to advancements in design and materials over the past decades.
Built-in Tech: Standard features across most trims included a sophisticated automatic climate control system, power windows with a driver's side auto-down function, power door locks, power-adjustable side mirrors, and cruise control. A tilt steering wheel allowed for driver comfort, and higher trims often featured keyless entry. The instrument cluster was clear and well-designed, emphasizing ease of use.
Entertainment: The standard entertainment system comprised an AM/FM cassette stereo. Higher trims, particularly the LS, boasted an upgraded premium Bose sound system, renowned for its sound quality at the time. A trunk-mounted CD changer was an available optional feature, allowing for multi-disc playback. A power antenna was also standard.
Driver-Assistance: The primary driver-assistance feature was the standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which significantly improved braking control in adverse conditions. Traction control was an advanced feature offered as standard on the LS Sedan trim, helping to prevent wheel spin during acceleration on slippery surfaces. More advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were not available in this vehicle class in 1992.
Safety Features: Safety was a priority, with a driver's side airbag being standard across all 1992 Legend models. Front seatbelt pre-tensioners were included to enhance occupant restraint. The robust chassis incorporated side-impact door beams for added protection, and rear doors featured child safety locks.
Crash-Test Ratings: Comprehensive crash-test ratings as we know them today (e.g., specific frontal and side-impact star ratings) were not widely standardized or readily available for individual vehicles in 1992 by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. While the Legend met all contemporary safety standards and included a driver's airbag, its crash performance would likely not align with modern vehicle safety standards due to advancements in design and materials over the past decades.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1992 Acura Legend Prices and Market Value
When new in 1992, the Acura Legend commanded premium prices, with the Base Sedan starting around $28,950, the LS Sedan at approximately $34,950, and the top-tier LS Coupe reaching about $36,950. These prices positioned it competitively against European luxury rivals.
Today, its used market value varies dramatically. Prices can range from $2,000 for high-mileage examples in fair condition to over $10,000 for meticulously maintained, low-mileage vehicles, especially the rarer coupe variants. Pristine, collector-grade examples can fetch even higher figures.
Initially, the Legend experienced significant depreciation, typical for luxury sedans in their first decade. However, it has since reached an appreciative phase, with well-preserved examples now showing signs of increasing value as a sought-after modern classic. Factors affecting current resale value include overall condition, mileage, complete service records (especially timing belt and transmission), absence of rust, and the car's originality. Manual transmission coupes tend to hold the highest value due to their rarity and enthusiast appeal.
Today, its used market value varies dramatically. Prices can range from $2,000 for high-mileage examples in fair condition to over $10,000 for meticulously maintained, low-mileage vehicles, especially the rarer coupe variants. Pristine, collector-grade examples can fetch even higher figures.
Initially, the Legend experienced significant depreciation, typical for luxury sedans in their first decade. However, it has since reached an appreciative phase, with well-preserved examples now showing signs of increasing value as a sought-after modern classic. Factors affecting current resale value include overall condition, mileage, complete service records (especially timing belt and transmission), absence of rust, and the car's originality. Manual transmission coupes tend to hold the highest value due to their rarity and enthusiast appeal.
1992 Acura Legend Cost of Ownership
Ownership costs for a 1992 Acura Legend are generally moderate but can fluctuate significantly. Insurance costs are typically reasonable for an older, non-performance luxury sedan. The 3.2L V6 engine requires premium unleaded fuel for optimal performance, impacting fuel expenses, though its economy is decent for its class. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is quite affordable. However, major repairs can be costly; the timing belt service is substantial, and automatic transmission overhauls are particularly expensive. Parts for a luxury brand can be pricier than their Honda equivalents, and some specific components are becoming harder to source. Overall, a well-maintained Legend can be an economical luxury vehicle to own long-term, but neglected examples can quickly become expensive money pits due to the aforementioned major repairs.
1992 Acura Legend Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
18.00 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
24 miles/gallon
1992 Acura Legend Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1992 Acura Legend Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1992 Acura Legend Insurance
Insurance for a 1992 Acura Legend is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1992 Acura Legend Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1992 Acura Legend competed fiercely against a diverse set of luxury rivals, primarily the Lexus ES 300, BMW 5-Series (E34), and Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124).
In terms of performance, the Legend's 200 hp 3.2L V6 offered smooth, refined power. It was competitive with the Lexus ES 300's V6, often feeling slightly more engaging. Compared to its German counterparts, the Legend typically offered robust FWD performance, though it couldn't match the RWD driving dynamics of a BMW 5-Series or the stately composure of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which often had more powerful engine options at higher price points.
Regarding features, the Legend was exceptionally well-appointed for its price. It often included standard amenities like automatic climate control, ABS, and a driver's airbag, matching or even exceeding the standard offerings of base European models. The interior quality, fit, and finish were top-notch, providing a luxurious experience comparable to cars costing significantly more.
Reliability is where the Legend truly shone, standing alongside the Lexus ES 300 as a paragon of dependability for its era. Both Japanese luxury sedans vastly outpaced their European rivals in terms of long-term mechanical robustness and lower ownership costs. While BMW and Mercedes offered undeniable prestige and driving enjoyment, they often came with a reputation for higher maintenance and repair expenses as they aged. The Legend's main reliability Achilles' heel, the automatic transmission, was its primary differentiator here.
Price was a strong advantage for the Legend. It significantly undercut many European rivals when new, offering comparable or superior features for less money. In the used market today, it presents tremendous value, providing a taste of '90s luxury and reliability without the prohibitive running costs often associated with aging German cars.
Similar Alternatives:
For Enthusiasts (with caution):
In terms of performance, the Legend's 200 hp 3.2L V6 offered smooth, refined power. It was competitive with the Lexus ES 300's V6, often feeling slightly more engaging. Compared to its German counterparts, the Legend typically offered robust FWD performance, though it couldn't match the RWD driving dynamics of a BMW 5-Series or the stately composure of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which often had more powerful engine options at higher price points.
Regarding features, the Legend was exceptionally well-appointed for its price. It often included standard amenities like automatic climate control, ABS, and a driver's airbag, matching or even exceeding the standard offerings of base European models. The interior quality, fit, and finish were top-notch, providing a luxurious experience comparable to cars costing significantly more.
Reliability is where the Legend truly shone, standing alongside the Lexus ES 300 as a paragon of dependability for its era. Both Japanese luxury sedans vastly outpaced their European rivals in terms of long-term mechanical robustness and lower ownership costs. While BMW and Mercedes offered undeniable prestige and driving enjoyment, they often came with a reputation for higher maintenance and repair expenses as they aged. The Legend's main reliability Achilles' heel, the automatic transmission, was its primary differentiator here.
Price was a strong advantage for the Legend. It significantly undercut many European rivals when new, offering comparable or superior features for less money. In the used market today, it presents tremendous value, providing a taste of '90s luxury and reliability without the prohibitive running costs often associated with aging German cars.
Similar Alternatives:
- Lexus ES 300 (1992-1996): A direct FWD competitor, offering similar reliability, comfort, and refinement, perhaps with fewer transmission woes. Less sporty than the Legend.
- Infiniti I30 (later models): Based on the Nissan Maxima, it offered robust V6 power and good reliability, though arguably less luxury cachet than the Legend.
- Toyota Camry XLE V6 (same era): Not a luxury car, but provides a reliable, comfortable, and economical FWD experience with similar powertrain components, albeit with fewer premium features.
For Enthusiasts (with caution):
- BMW 5-Series (E34): For those prioritizing RWD driving dynamics and engine character, but be prepared for significantly higher maintenance and repair costs.
Final Verdict: Is the 1992 Acura Legend a Good Sedan?
The 1992 Acura Legend is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a taste of '90s luxury combined with robust reliability and a refined driving experience. It appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate well-engineered, understated classics, or anyone desiring a comfortable, quiet, and dependable daily driver without modern technological complexities.
It is absolutely worth buying, but under very specific conditions. As a used vehicle, thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is non-negotiable, especially to assess the health of the automatic transmission and power steering system. Prioritize examples with comprehensive service records demonstrating regular maintenance, particularly the timing belt service. Manual transmission versions, though rare, offer enhanced reliability and a more engaging drive. LS trims, both sedan and coupe, provide the most features and are generally more desirable. Avoid the cheapest examples unless prepared for significant repair investments. A well-maintained 1992 Legend represents an exceptional value, delivering luxury and enduring quality that far surpasses its modest current market price.
It is absolutely worth buying, but under very specific conditions. As a used vehicle, thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is non-negotiable, especially to assess the health of the automatic transmission and power steering system. Prioritize examples with comprehensive service records demonstrating regular maintenance, particularly the timing belt service. Manual transmission versions, though rare, offer enhanced reliability and a more engaging drive. LS trims, both sedan and coupe, provide the most features and are generally more desirable. Avoid the cheapest examples unless prepared for significant repair investments. A well-maintained 1992 Legend represents an exceptional value, delivering luxury and enduring quality that far surpasses its modest current market price.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma