P263 CEEFAX 263 Mon 10 Nov 21:11/11 1/4 HONDA LEGEND O The Legend is Honda's version of the XX project with Rover, a collaboration that has seen the Rover 800 Series. Not surprisingly, the two cars are similar in many areas. The most obvious differences are in appearance. The Japanese entry - the first move into the executive sector bz Honda - is less angular than the Rover, despite modest wheel arch blisters. But undjrnjath, both are sufficiently similar to allow assembly on either Honda or Rover assembly lines. MoreP263 CEEFAX 263 Mon 10 Nov 21:14/44 2/4 HONDA LEGEND O The Honda-developed 2493cc 90-degree V6 Legend engine, a new all-alloy 24-valve unit, is also used in the Rover 825i. It is transvjrsjly mounted and designed to fit the low bonnet line and slanted nose that characterisj all recent Hondas. Only this engine is available in the UK, with either five-speed manual transmission or four-speed automatic with POM (programmed) clutch lock-up - a system which monitors factors such as throttle opening and speed to determine the best time for lock-up. MoreP263 CEEFAX 263 Mon 10 Nov 21:12/44 3/4 HONDA LEGEND O The Legend has been on sale in Japan for the past year and in the US as the Acura Legend for six months. Sales in America are reported to "j "satisfactory" and Honda expect to sell about 2,000 Legends when it becomes available in Britain next year. Prices have not been fixed, but should range from £14,100 to £15,000. This looks considerably cheaper than the Rover 800, but a £2,000 equipment pack for the Legend - including such items as electrically powered driver'u seat and air conditioning - may be added. MoreP263 CEEFAX 263 Mon 10 Nov 21:21/35 4/4 HONDA LEGEND O There is a distinct and almost sporty growl jrom the engine when opened up and the damping does not cope in a manner expected jrom this class of car. The interior is perhaps not as luxury- orientated as the Rover, but with Honda's reputation for reliability it is certain to make some hjadwaz in the executive car market here. Production at Cowley of the Legend, with Honda pre-delivery inspection, will bj increased for sales to the continent. But unlike Nissan, the "US- built" aspect will not bj featured. Motoring updated on Fridays More