The Honda C27A1 is a 2,656 cc, 90-degree V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1990. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC) with 24 valves and Honda's PGM‑FI fuel injection system. This configuration prioritized smooth, refined power delivery and strong low-to-mid-range torque for executive sedans.
Fitted primarily to the first-generation Honda Legend (KA chassis), the C27A1 was engineered for quiet, effortless cruising and premium refinement. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through its precise electronic fuel injection and three-way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet applicable Japanese and North American emissions standards of the late 1980s, including California's requirements.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the balance shaft bearings, which can lead to increased engine vibration and noise. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 89‑021, is often linked to oil starvation or extended service intervals. The C27A1 was succeeded by the more powerful C32A variant.
Honda
Production years 1988–1990 meet applicable late-1980s emissions standards for respective markets (e.g., US EPA Tier 0, California ARB, Japanese Showa 58).
The Honda C27A1 is a 2,656 cc 90-degree V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1988-1990). It combines PGM‑FI electronic fuel injection with a 24‑valve SOHC layout to deliver exceptionally smooth, linear power and strong low-end torque. Designed to meet late-1980s emissions standards, it balances refinement with mechanical sophistication.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,656 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V6, SOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 127 kW (172 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 234 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM‑FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 0 / California ARB / Japanese Showa 58 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The SOHC 24-valve V6 design offers exceptionally smooth, linear power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 30,000 km to maintain performance and prevent valve train noise. API SF/SG 10W-40 oil is specified to protect the hydraulic lifters and chain tensioner. The balance shaft bearings (Honda SIB 89-021) are critical for smoothness and should be inspected if unusual vibration is present; failure is often linked to poor oil maintenance. The timing chain is generally robust but tensioner wear should be monitored. The PGM-FI system demands clean fuel; clogged injectors are a common cause of drivability issues.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG 10W-40 specification (Honda Owner's Manual, 1988). Modern equivalents meeting API SL/SM are acceptable.
Emissions: Certified under US EPA Tier 0 and California ARB standards for 1988 model year (EPA Certificate #88-HON-003). Japanese market models complied with Showa 58 regulations.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards (Honda PT-1988). Output figures are for the US-spec C27A1; JDM variants may differ slightly.
Honda Service Manual (KA Chassis Legend)
Honda Parts Catalogue (EPC) Doc. C27-001
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database
Honda Service Information Bulletins (SIB 88-018, SIB 89-021)
The Honda C27A1 was used exclusively in Honda's flagship KA platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its short production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, on the passenger-side bank, just below the cylinder head (Honda Service Manual KA). The 8th digit of the VIN for US-market Legends is 'C' for the C27A1 engine. Visually, it can be identified by its V6 configuration with two cam covers and a distributor mounted at the rear of the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the C32A: The C27A1 has a smaller displacement (2.7L vs 3.2L) and lower power output, though the basic architecture is similar. The intake manifold for the C27A1 is specific (Honda P/N 17100-PN4-013).
The C27A1's primary reliability risk is balance shaft bearing wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Honda service data indicates vibration complaints are a common cause for diagnostic visits, while valve train noise often stems from neglected clearance adjustments. Adherence to the 30,000 km service interval makes long-term reliability excellent.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1988-1990) and US NHTSA complaint data (1988-1995). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA C27A1.
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