Honda Legend Mk1 (1985 – 1990) Review

For most British enthusiasts, the Honda Legend will always be associated with the Rover 800, the two companies' first true joint ventue product. Of the two, it was the Legend that appeared first, being launched in October 1985. In visual terms, it was very much an upscaled Accord, which was no bad thing, and was powered exclusively by Honda's own V6 engine, in 2.0- and 2.5-litre form.

The development work was carried out at Rover's Canley, Coventry plant and Honda's Tochigi development centre, and in Honda form, it ended up being built in both the UK and Japan. The UK launch took place a year later, and was sold in a single 2.5-litre form, being sold at a premium price, and boasting a luxury specification. Options included cruise control, alloy wheels, a driver's seat with power lumbar support, height, fore/aft and reclining adjusters, adjustable rear headrests, a 4 speaker stereo system provided by Philips and headlight wipers. The visually-appealing Coupe was added to the range in February 1987, around the same time an upgraded 2.7-litre V6 was drafted in.