On paper come it made sense. Combine the smooth, dependable driveline of the Acura Legend with the beautiful coach work and traditional leather and wood interior the British car makers do so well. The results, a beautiful English car with Honda dependability. This was the promise of the Sterling line of automobiles Built in Britain by Austin Rover.
For 1989, the Sterling lineup included 4 models, 827S, 827SL, 827SL Limited Edition, and 827SLI. The first 3 were ascending trim levels of the 4 door Sedan, while the 5 door was a new car from the C-pillars back, and all four war equipped with John as 2.7 L V6 engine. Until 89′, Sterling vehicles Were fitted with the 2.5 L version of this single overhead cam 4-valve V6. The increased displacement of the 2.7, combined with the refined fuel inlet system put the Sterling drivetrain on par with that of the then current Legend Sedan and Coupe in the US.
The Sterling 827LI presented a unique challenge for the sales team in the US. Because it went against one of autodom’s hard-and-fast rules: Americans will not buy expensive 5 door hatchback automobiles. The thinking was that only small, inexpensive cars will sell in a 5 door hatchback configuration – that 5 doors equals cheap.
Cheap was certainly not a correct description of the 827SLi in either price or quality. To confuse the traditional automakers even more, the 5 door was also the sportiest of the Sterling lineup, with revised suspension, body aerodynamics, and anti lock braking system. This was a package that sold well in Europe. How it did in the US, no speculation required, but the Sterling was worthy of consideration.
Overall, the 827SLi was solid, functional, and fun to drive. It may have taken American some time to get used to the hatchback styling on a car of this price and refinement, but the Austin rover had a strong and versatile package to present.
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