1986 Honda Legend I (HS,KA) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Honda Legend I has a curb weight ranging from 1350 kg to 1405 kg (2,976 to 3,097 pounds). The curb weight refers to the vehicle's weight including standard equipment and fluids but without passengers or cargo. The maximum weight or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is 1850 kg (4,078 pounds), which represents the maximum safe operational weight including passengers, cargo, and fuel. This weight range categorizes the Legend I as a mid-weight luxury sedan, contributing to its balanced handling and fuel efficiency characteristics.

The roof load capacity of the Honda Legend I is rated at 70 kg (approximately 154 lbs). This means that the vehicle’s roof can safely carry a load, such as a roof box or luggage rack, up to this weight without compromising structural integrity or safety. It’s important not to exceed this roof load limit to avoid damage or affecting driving dynamics, especially during cornering or in adverse weather conditions.

The Honda Legend I uses rims sized at 6J x 15 inches. The standard tire sizes compatible with these rims are 205/60 R15 and 205/65 R15. These tire sizes offer a good balance of ride comfort, road grip, and performance appropriate for a luxury sedan of its era. The relatively wide 205 mm tires improve traction while maintaining a comfort-oriented ride, suitable for the semi-luxury class the Legend occupies.

With a length of 4810 mm (189.4 inches), width of 1735 mm (68.3 inches), and height of 1390 mm (54.7 inches), the Honda Legend I fits comfortably in a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically range from 2,400 to 3,000 mm (7.9 to 9.8 feet) wide and roughly 4,800 to 6,000 mm (15.7 to 19.7 feet) deep. Since the Legend I's width and length fall within these dimensions, parking and maneuvering indoors should pose no issues for most users, though space for opening doors and storage depends on individual garage layout.

The Honda Legend I (HS, KA) was actually the first generation of the Legend model, produced from 1986 to 1990, so it has no predecessor generation to compare in size directly. However, in Honda's sedan lineup at the time, it was larger and more luxurious than models like the Accord or Prelude, representing Honda's entry into the luxury sedan market. Its length of 4810 mm and width of 1735 mm positioned it well above mid-size sedans of the era, offering a more spacious and premium experience.

Compared to contemporaries such as the Acura Legend (the U.S. variant), BMW 5 Series (E34), and Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124), the Honda Legend I is competitively sized. For example, the BMW 5 Series E34 measured about 4640 mm (182.7 inches) in length, slightly shorter than the Legend's 4810 mm, while the Mercedes-Benz W124 Clocked in around 4760 mm (187.4 inches). The Legend's width of 1735 mm was somewhat narrower than German competitors, which often exceeded 1750 mm. Overall, the Legend had a marginally longer but narrower profile, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a blend of traditional Japanese reliability and European-sized luxury.

The Honda Legend I features a spacious interior for its class and era. Its large exterior dimensions translate to comfortable seating with ample legroom and headroom, especially in the front seats. The rear seats also offer sufficient space for adult passengers, with a focus on comfort and support, befitting its luxury sedan status. While exact interior volume varies, typical features included adjustable seats and quality materials, contributing to a refined cabin environment. Its relatively low height of 1390 mm helps in maintaining a sporty profile without sacrificing headroom inside.

The first-generation Honda Legend came equipped primarily with a 2.5-liter or 2.7-liter V6 engine, which was advanced for its time, featuring Honda's VTEC technology in some markets. It delivered smooth and robust power suited for a luxury sedan, with good fuel efficiency relative to its competitors. Paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission (depending on market), it provided a refined and responsive driving experience. The Legend I set itself apart with balanced handling, quiet operation, and a premium feel rather than outright sportiness.

The Honda Legend I was designed with a focus on luxury combined with confident handling. Its relatively moderate curb weight of 1350-1405 kg contributed to nimble and responsive driving characteristics for a sedan of its size. The vehicle's suspension was tuned to balance comfort and control, offering stable cornering with minimal body roll. While not a sports car, the Legend's use of advanced engineering for its time, including independent suspension and good weight distribution, resulted in a smooth and engaging ride that appealed to buyers seeking more than just basic transport.