Honda Legend KA9
A refined, understated Japanese flagship known for its exceptional build quality and smooth V6 power.
- Power
- 205 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.8 s
- Top speed
- 140 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$10k
About the Honda Legend KA9
The third-generation Honda Legend (KA9) represented the brand's pinnacle of luxury, designed to compete with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Unlike its rivals, it retained a front-wheel-drive layout but utilised a longitudinal engine orientation to improve weight distribution and reduce vibration. The 3.5-litre V6 was tuned for low-end torque and refinement rather than outright speed, paired with a Grade Logic transmission that reduced gear hunting on inclines. In the UK and US (where it was sold as the Acura RL), it gained a reputation for bulletproof reliability and a serene, well-insulated cabin.
Honda Legend KA9 specs
The Honda Legend KA9 produces 205 bhp (153 kW) and 297 Nm (219 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.8 seconds and has a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Legend |
| Generation | KA9 |
| Trim | 3.5 V6 |
| Years | 1996–2004 |
| Type | Luxury |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $38,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.5-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,474 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 205 bhp (153 kW) at 5,200 rpm |
| Torque | 297 Nm (219 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,300 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.8 s |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,675 kg (3,693 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 122 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Honda Legend KA9 worth?
A typical Honda Legend KA9 is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $10,000 (about £2,200 – £7,500).
Its original price when new was about $38,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Honda Legend KA9 rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Legend KA9 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 1 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Honda Legend KA9 fun facts
- The KA9 Legend was the first Honda to feature a 'Grade Logic' automatic transmission, which used computer algorithms to determine the best gear for climbing or descending hills.
- To ensure maximum refinement, Honda engineers used a liquid-filled engine mount system to isolate the cabin from V6 vibrations.
- While most front-wheel-drive cars have transverse engines, the Legend's V6 is mounted longitudinally, a rare layout shared with some Audi and Oldsmobile models.