The 1988 Acura Legend line of luxury/performance automobiles continues the Acura tradition of refined automotive technology. For 1988, the Legend 4-door Sedan is powered by the same 2.7-liter 24-valve fuel-injected V-6 engine first introduced in the 2-door Legend Coupe. Honda's own Anti-Lock Braking (ALB) system, Supplemental Restraint: System (SRS) with driver's side air bag, and available dual-mode electronically controlled automatic transmission with driver's select sport mode also becomes available in the legend Sedan as well as the legend Coupe.
"Both the Legend Sedan and Coupe have proven to be strong competitors in the upscale, luxury/performance automotive market," said Ed Taylor, vice president of the Acura Automobile Division. "With additional refinements for 1988, we feel we have improved what was already a car designed for the truly discriminating driver."
Both Legend models were developed through the use of Computer Aided Design (CAD) techniques and extensive wind tunnel testing. Utilizing numerous aerodynamic design elements, including low, sloping hoods, body faired bumper and air dam, and flush headlights, glass and door handles, the Sedan and Coupe have respective coefficients of drag (Cd) of just 0.32 and 0.30. The use of low hoodlines, narrow roof pillars and large glass areas also provides excellent all-around drive," visibility of 310 degrees for Sedan, and 323 degrees for Coupe.
There are three versions of the Legend Sedan and Legend Coupe for 1988: A fully-equipped standard version, complete with features ranging from power-operated windows and door locks to air conditioning and cruise control; and L and LS luxury option packages. Both L and LS versions feature standard leather upholstery and an Anti-Lock Braking (ALB) system (in addition to the standard 4-wheel disc brakes equipped on all versions). The LS version also includes a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) driver's side air bag and an advanced Acura/Bose Music System.
The Legend interior is noted for its advanced ergonomics, with every gauge and switch logically positioned within easy sight and reach of the driver. This emphasis on providing a stress-free environment that puts the driver in total control is especially evident in the design of the instrument panel. Large, white-on-black analog gauges provide full information at a glance. All switches and controls, with the most commonly used arranged within finger's reach of the steering wheel, provide the positive feedback of sure engagement through their quality tactile feel.
The Legend front bucket seats are deeply contoured and fully adjustable. The driver's seat on Land LS versions are power adjustable -- 4-way on the Coupe and 10-way on the Sedan. The rear seat features a standard fold-down center armrest. Other convenient interior items include an adjustable steering column (not available on LS models), digital quartz clock, full center console designed to accommodate a cellular phone, an illuminated entry system and dual illuminated vanity mirrors. Every Legend is equipped with an audiophile-quality AM stereo/FM stereo electronically tuned radio with cassette, 7-band programmable graphic equalizer, Dolby, and four speakers
In addition to these standard features, L and LS versions also offer a security system. A Driver's Information Center is provided on the Legend Sedan LS and the Coupe L and LS versions. The system provides trip, fluid and maintenance interval information. A power-operated sunroof with sliding sun shade is standard for both the Legend Coupe and the Sedan. Automatic climate control is standard on the Sedan LS, and on both the L and LS versions of the Legend Coupe
The Legend LS is also equipped with a specially designed Acura/Bose Music System, which includes an AM/FM stereo/cassette with Dolby and Dynamic Noise Reduction, and four Bose speakers --each fitted with an individual amplifier and electronic equalizer.
In 1988, both Sedan and Coupe models will be powered by the technically advanced Legend 2.7-liter 24-valve, single-overhead cam (SOHC), fuel-injected V-6 engine. The engine is rated at 161 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.
The lightweight aluminum alloy powerplant utilizes a pent-roof combustion chamber, which permits use of a symmetrical four-valve layout and central spark plug location for more complete combustion of the air/fuel mixture. The aluminum alloy cylinder heads have equal length crossflow exhaust and intake ports. To broaden the torque curve, the Legend V-6 uses a Variable Intake Control System, which combines mechanical precision with electronic control. The result is a smooth power delivery throughout the full rpm range.
Legend's programmed multi-port fuel injection utilizes an eight-bit microcomputer to analyze information from seven sensors and maintain the ideal proportion of fuel and air and its delivery to each cylinder. The ignition system is fully electronic, making extremely accurate ignition control possible.
A 5-speed manual transmission with short shift throws is standard on all Legend models. Optionally available is an advanced electronic dual-mode 4-speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter. It incorporates a driver-selectable Sports mode and progressive torque converter lockup capability in second, third and fourth gear. This design allows the driver to select the most appropriate shifting program for his or her particular driving style and situation. In addition to providing increased performance, the Sport range is useful in eliminating the traditional "hunting" for the correct gear on long, steep grades or while towing a trailer.
Well-matched to the responsive, smooth operating Legend engine is the fully-independent suspension and front-wheel drive system which incorporates equal-length halfshafts to improve handling and virtually eliminated the undesirable "torque steer" often associated with front-wheel drive cars
Both the Legend Sedan and the Coupe have double wishbone front suspensions. The design incorporates coil springs, fade-resistant shock absorbers and stabilizer bar, providing excellent wheel control.
In the rear, the Legend Coupe utilizes the same double wishbone setup to achieve a high level of sporty handling and excellent ride. The Legend Sedan employs an advanced trailing link rear suspension design with Reduced Friction Strut (RFS), progressive rate coil springs and gas-pressurized shock absorbers to provide predictable handling and comfortable ride. A rear stabilizer bar is used on both the Coupe and Sedan.
Speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering gives quick response and accurate road feel. Maximum assist is provided for low-speed maneuvering and parking. At cruising speeds assist is reduced to enhance road feel
Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all Legend models. This advanced power-assisted dual-diagonal system has ventilated discs in front to dissipate heat.
In addition, the Legend L and LS versions include an exclusive Honda Research and Development Co., Ltd. designed Anti-Lock Braking (ALB) system which prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. By allowing the wheels to rotate during braking, the driver is better able to retain stability and steering control.
Performance-oriented tires mounted on lightweight alloy wheels complement Legend's power and handling capabilities. The Legend Sedan uses Michelin 205/60 MXV HR15 radials, while the Legend Coupe is offered with Michelin 205/60 MXV VR15 radials.
The Legend Sedan and Coupe feature durable unit-body construction and precise manufacturing, including extensive corrosion protection. The Legend's unique four-coat, four-bake painting process provides for a deep lustrous finish.
"The Acura Legend Sedan and Coupe are precision built for an enjoyable and lasting owner experience," said Taylor. "The Legend combination of performance and luxury, plus the Acura dedication to top-ranked customer satisfaction, should be an unbeatable combination in 1988."