The 3.2-liter V6 Honda C32A engine was produced at the concern’s factories from 1990 to 1999 and was installed on the second generation of Legend models, Inspire and analogues under the Acura brand. In addition to standard engine modifications for 200 – 205 hp, there was a Type 2 version with 230 hp.
C-series family: C27A, C30A, C32A, C35A, C32B.
Specifications
| Production years | 1990-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 3206 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 200 – 205 – Type I: C32A1, C32A2, C32A3, C32A4 and C35A6 230 – Type II: C32A1 Performance Variation |
| Torque output, Nm | 285 – 295 – Type I: C32A1, C32A2, C32A3, C32A4 and C35A6 280 – Type II: C32A1 Performance Variation |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 90 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 84 |
| Compression ratio | 9.6 – Type I: C32A1, C32A2, C32A3, C32A4 and C35A6 10.0 – Type II: C32A1 Performance Variation |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | no |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Honda Legend 1994) — city — highway — combined |
15.7 8.8 11.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
| Weight, kg | 217 |
The engine was installed on:
- Acura TL 1 (UA) in 1995 – 1998;
- Daewoo Arcadia 1 in 1994 – 1999;
- Honda Inspire 2 (UA) in 1995 – 1998;
- Honda Legend 2 (KA7) in 1990 – 1995;
- Honda Saber 1 (UA) in 1995 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the Honda C32A engine
- The engine has no problems with reliability, but many people are not happy with fuel consumption;
- The most common problem here is oil leakage from under the valve covers;
- Grease often enters the candle wells, damaging the ignition coils;
- Up to 100,000 km of run, only lambda probes and a pump may require replacement;
- After 200,000 km, an oil burn often begins due to the occurrence of piston rings.
Frequently asked questions about the Honda C32A
How much power does the Honda C32A make?
Power output of the Honda C32A, hp: 200 - 205 - Type I: C32A1, C32A2, C32A3, C32A4 and C35A6; 230 - Type II: C32A1 Performance Variation. Torque, Nm: 285 - 295 - Type I: C32A1, C32A2, C32A3, C32A4 and C35A6; 280 - Type II: C32A1 Performance Variation.
How much oil does the Honda C32A take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Honda C32A have a timing belt or chain?
The Honda C32A uses a timing belt.
Is the Honda C32A turbocharged?
No, the Honda C32A is naturally aspirated.
Does the Honda C32A need valve clearance adjustment?
Yes, there are no hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances have to be checked and adjusted periodically.
How long does the Honda C32A last?
The typical lifespan of the Honda C32A is ~330 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Honda C32A?
Honda Legend 1994: city 15.7, highway 8.8, combined 11.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Honda C32A installed on?
Acura TL 1 (UA) in 1995 - 1998; Daewoo Arcadia 1 in 1994 - 1999; Honda Inspire 2 (UA) in 1995 - 1998; Honda Legend 2 (KA7) in 1990 - 1995; Honda Saber 1 (UA) in 1995 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Honda C32A?
The engine has no problems with reliability, but many people are not happy with fuel consumption. The most common problem here is oil leakage from under the valve covers. All known problems.
