The list of honda prelude

First generation (1978–1982)

First generation (SN)
Overview
Production	1978–1982
Powertrain
Engine	1,602 cc EL I4 1,751 cc EK I4
Transmission	2-speed automatic 3-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,320 mm (91.3 in)
Length	4,090 mm (161.0 in)
Width	1,635 mm (64.4 in)
Height	1,290 mm (50.8 in)
Curb weight	900 kg (1,980 lb)

On November 24, 1978, the Prelude was launched.^[1] In Japan it was only available at the newly established dealership sales channel Honda Verno. This dealership chain also introduced the entry-level Honda Quint, the Honda Ballade, and the Accord-based Honda Vigor as its largest sedan and hatchback. The four-wheel independent struts, brakes, engine were all borrowed from the first generation Accord, but the chassis was all new and developed by chief engineer Hiroshi Kizawa expressly for the sporting Prelude.^[2] At 4,090 mm (length) x 1,635 mm (width) x 1290 mm (height), it had quite a low and wide profile. The wheelbase was 2,320 mm, and was 60 mm shorter than that of the original Accord.^[3] Honda appears to have followed the successful introduction of the Toyota Celica example originally established by the pony car originator Ford Mustang by taking a small car, like the Accord, installing a more powerful engine, and giving the body a short trunk, and a long engine hood. The Prelude (and period Accord) were the first cars under two litres to receive standard power steering.^[4]
The Prelude was the first Honda model to offer a power moonroof as standard equipment, which eventually became a Prelude trademark. In Japan, the Prelude was available with a sliding metal sunroof, while US versions received a glass top which freed up more headroom.^[2]
Initial reviews for the Prelude were favorable. "It is," wrote Brock Yates for Motor Trend, "by any sane measurement, a splendid automobile. The machine, like all Hondas, embodies fabrication that is, in my opinion, surpassed only by the narrowest of margins by Mercedes-Benz. It is a relatively powerful little automobile by anybody's standards."Motor Trend measuring an early Prelude completing the quarter-mile in 18.8 seconds at 70 mph.

Rear view of SN Prelude

The standard engine at the time of introduction was the "EL" SOHC eight-valve 1,602 cc (non-CVCC) inline four rated at 80 PS (59 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 12.9 kg·m (127 N·m; 93 lb·ft) at 3,500 rpm.^[1] It remained the only engine available for most markets, aside from the US and Japan. It featured a non-automatic choke with three positions and a two-barrel carburetor. In September 1978 the larger "EK" SOHC 12-valve 1,750 cc CVCC inline-four was introduced in Japan, rated at 90 PS (66 kW) at 5,300 rpm (SAE gross).^[1] Automatics had five less horsepower.^[3] It took until March 1979 for the Prelude to appear in the United States, then with 72 hp (54 kW) at 4,500 rpm and 94 lb·ft (127 N·m) at 3,000 rpm (SAE net) from the larger 1.8 engine.^[5] The EK engine made use of an engine oil cooler and transistor-controlled ignition system.
1980 saw the introduction of the CVCC-II engine which employed the use of a catalytic converter and several other refinements that improved driveability, the Prelude also received a mild facelift in 1981. Transmission choices were either the standard five-speed manual or initially a two-speed "Hondamatic" semi-automatic, which by October 1979 had been replaced by a three-speed automatic that used the final gear as the overdrive. In addition to the standard fabrics offered in most models, an 'Executive' option was offered in some markets which added power steering and Connolly leather upholstery. Honda used a single central gauge cluster design in this car which housed the speedometer and tachometer in one combined unit where both instrument's needles swept along the same arc. They also placed the compact AM/FM radio unit up high next to the gauge cluster. The Prelude featured intermittent wipers, tinted glass, and a remote trunk release. There was a convertible model introduced by a Santa Ana California company named Solaire. Less than 100 were believed to be converted when new and they were sold through Honda dealerships with full factory warranty coverage.

Second generation (1983–1987)

Second generation (AB, BA1/2/3/6, BB)
Overview
Production	1982–1987
Designer	Shinya Iwakura
Powertrain
Engine	1.8L 105 hp (80 kW) I4 2.0L 110 hp (82 kW) I4
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,451 mm (96.5 in)
Length	4,374 mm (172.2 in)
Width	1,689 mm (66.5 in)
Height	1,295 mm (51 in)
Curb weight	1,046 kg (2,306 lb) - 1,340 kg (2,954 lb) (depending on model)

The second-generation Prelude was released in Japan on November 25, 1982 and worldwide in 1983. Riding on an all-new platform, the Prelude was initially available with an A18A or ET-2, 1.8 L 12-valve twin carburetor engine, producing 110 hp (77 kW), with fuel injection introduced in the "Si" models in 1985. In Japan, Asia and Europe, it was available with a 2-liter DOHC 16-valve PGM-FI engine (JDM = BA1, EU = BA2) although this engine was not released in Europe until 1986. The JDM B20A produced 160 PS (118 kW) at 6,300 rpm, while the European B20A1 produced only 137 hp (102 kW). This was the first generation of Prelude to have pop-up headlights, which allowed for a more aerodynamic front clip, reducing drag. Opening the headlights, however, especially at higher speeds, produced significantly more drag. The 1983 model is identifiable by its standard painted steel wheels with bright trim rings (although alloy rims were optional). The 1984-87 base models had Civic-style full wheel covers. In Canada, a "Special Edition" trim was created, which is essentially the same as the USA 2.0Si "sport injected" model.
In Japan, the Prelude was one of the key models sold at Japanese Honda dealership sales channels, called Honda Verno, which offered performance-oriented products. All Honda Verno products, like the Vigor, initially shared the concealed headlights introduced with this generation Prelude that would help identify "sports" products from Honda in Japan however, the approach was short-lived.
When the 2-litre 16-valve DOHC engine came out the hood was slightly modified since the larger engine could not fit under the original hood. The European version also saw slight modifications to the rear lights and revised front and rear bumpers which were now color-matched. Due to the fairly low weight of the car (1,025 kg or 2,260 lb) and high power (the 16-valve engine produced 160 PS or 118 kW), the car was relatively nimble in comparison to its competitors, which most Preludes had not been up to that time.

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  1986 Honda Prelude SE Rear
  
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  1986–1987 Honda Prelude Si coupé (Australia)
  
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  1986–1987 Honda Prelude Si coupé (Australia)
  

Third generation (1988–1991)

Third generation (BA3/4/5/7)
Overview
Production	1987–1991
Powertrain
Engine	2.0L 104 hp (78 kW) I4 2.0L 135 hp (101 kW) I4 2.0L 140 hp (104 kW) I4 2.1L 140 hp (104 kW) I4 2.0L 142 hp (106 kW) I4 2.0L 150 hp (112 kW) I4
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,565 mm (101 in)
Length	4,460 mm (175.6 in) (1988-89) 4,511 mm (177.6 in) (1990-91)
Width	1,694 mm (66.7 in) (Japan) 1,709 mm (67.3 in)
Height	1,295 mm (51 in) (1988-89) 1,250 mm (49.2 in) (1990-91)
Curb weight	1,060 kg (2,337 lb) - 1,340 kg (2,954 lb) (depending on model)

On April 9, 1987, the third-generation Prelude was released in the Japanese domestic market and released later that year worldwide, being an 1988 model in North America. Featuring evolutionary styling from its predecessor, it shared design cues from the Honda NSX that would be introduced later in 1989. The Prelude featured innovative features for its time such as a 0.34 drag coefficient, roof pillars made of high-strength metal and its signature feature, the available option of the world's first mechanical four wheel steering system available in a mass-production passenger car.
The third-generation Prelude was exclusively powered by variants of the Honda B20A engine, a base carbureted version with a SOHC 12-valve valvetrain, or a DOHC variant with Honda's PGM-FI fuel injection and 16 valves.

Third-generation Honda Prelude engines: B20A/B20A1 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 143/160 hp (Japan/Europe) B20A3 - 2.0L SOHC 12v carb 104 hp North America B20A4 - 2.0L SOHC 12v carb Global, except North America B20A5 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 135 hp (101 kW) North America B20A6 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 142 hp (106 kW) Oceania B20A7 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 150 hp (110 kW) Europe B20A8 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 133 hp (99 kW) Europe B20A9 - 2.0L DOHC PGM-FI 140 hp (100 kW) Europe B21A - 2.1L DOHC PGM-FI 145 hp (108 kW) Japan (SI States) B21A1 - 2.1L DOHC PGM-FI 140 hp (100 kW) North America

In 1987, Road & Track published a test summary that shows the 1988 Honda Prelude 2.0Si 4WS outperforming every car of that year on the slalom, with a speed of 65.5 mph (105.4 km/h), even besting exotics such as Porsche and Ferrari. For reference, the 1988 Chevrolet Corvette C4 took the same course at 64.9 mph (104.4 km/h).
The Prelude was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1987.

Mid-cycle refresh and Prelude INX

Rare 1990 SiStates Prelude

The facelifted third-generation Prelude was revealed in Japan on November 21, 1989. Along with the facelift, a new Prelude model was introduced to the Japanese domestic market, the Prelude INX, which featured fixed headlights and a front fascia very similar to the contemporary Honda Legend coupé. The facelift coincided with changes to North American lighting requirements in the United States and Canada, and a greater focus on safety was offered with available anti-lock brakes and an available driver's side airbag exclusively offered on Japanese models.
The front bumper on the revised Prelude was also changed to feature clear indicators and a revised parking lamp design. Many of the interior parts were revised, including the dash bezel, the door handle and window switches. The Japanese version of the Si with the B20A was rated 140 HP with the JDM engine and was rated for 37 MPG.
A new engine was offered, a revised version of the B20 called the B21A1, bored to 83 mm (3.3 in) with a total displacement of 2056 cc producing up to 145 hp (108 kW) and featuring a unique cylinder liner featuring FRM (fiber reinforced metal) that is reported to be extremely tough. This causes premature piston ring wear contributing to exceptionally high oil consumption.
In North America, the facelifted Prelude debuted for the 1990 model year, with the carbureted 2.0S being discontinued. The fuel-injected 2.0Si became the entry-level Prelude model, being supplanted by a new Si model with the B21A1 engine, offering 4WS or ABS (called ALB) as options.
Honda released the Prelude SiStates in 1990 as a Japanese domestic market special edition, this car was a limited production run and very few were built. It featured four-wheel steering, ABS, limited slip differential, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear lever, extra sound deadening on the firewall and hood, rear windscreen wiper and washer, and many more features that were usually options. It also featured a unique B21A engine rated at 145 bhp (108 kW) that was only produced for the SiStates. A major distinction of the SiStates is that it was the same width as the Prelude sold in North America, in which it took its name from. This Prelude model was only available with an automatic transmission.

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  90-91 Front bumper
  
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  88-89 Rear bumper and tail lights
  
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  90-91 Rear bumper and tail lights
  

Fourth generation (1992–1996)

Fourth generation (BA8/9, BB1-BB4)
Overview
Production	1991–1996
Powertrain
Engine	see chart
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,550 mm (100.4 in)
Length	4,440 mm (174.8 in)
Width	1,765 mm (69.5 in)
Height	1,290 mm (50.8 in)
Curb weight	1,288 kg (2,840 lb)

On September 19, 1991, the fourth-generation Prelude was introduced in Japan, and released worldwide for the 1992 model year. The car had a 58% front and 42% rear weight distribution. The four wheel steering system was changed to an electronic version and the engine was increased in capacity from 2.1 litres to 2.2 litres for the base model "S" (SOHC F22A1 engine, 125 PS (92 kW; 123 hp) at 5200 rpm, 193 N·m (142 ft·lbf) at 4000 rpm) and "VTEC" model (DOHC VTEC H22A1, 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp) at 6800 rpm, 207 N·m (153 ft·lbf) at 5500 rpm), with a 2.3-litre for the "Si" (DOHC H23A1, 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) at 5800 rpm, 212 N·m (156 ft·lbf) at 5300 rpm). The Japanese Si came with the F22B (2.2 L DOHC non-VTEC, 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp)). The VTEC model had an upgraded brake system, going from a 10.3" (262 mm) front rotor to an 11.1" (282 mm) front rotor and utilizing larger brake caliper and pads, similar to those found in the Honda Vigor. Its styling approach is similar to the Honda Ascot Innova during the same time period.
Additionally, a 2.0i, single overhead cam (SOHC) model was released in Europe, rated at 133 PS (98 kW; 131 hp). 1993 was the last year that the "Si-VTEC" (BB4) name was used, and beginning in 1994 it was shortened to just "VTEC" and stayed that way throughout the rest of the generation. In some countries, the Prelude with 2.2 VTEC engine was called the VTi-R. Later the 96 prelude SI/SR was introduced with a 2.3 VTEC engine. In Canada, the Si was called the SR, and the VTEC was called the SR-V. Due to the width dimensions and the engine displacement exceeding Japanese government regulations for vehicles classified as "compact", this generation Prelude obligated Japanese owners to yearly taxes, and the Prelude became known as a luxury car in Japan as a result.
This model also marked the end for the pop-up headlights. The 1992 Prelude incorporated other design features that had also become the "Prelude standard". The rear end was rounded and fairly high in comparison to the previous square trunk line. The front fascia of the car became wider with fixed headlights. The glass moonroof made way for a steel sliding sunroof which no longer retracted into the car but extended out and over it.
The light blue back lighting introduced in the third generation was continued. Later models (1994 and on) also featured translucent speedometer and tachometer needles. All VTEC & SE models received leather interior. In Japan, there was also an in-dash television set available as an option. As a result of this, many enthusiasts have modified the dashboards of their Preludes to fit a small television set. Also featured was an 8-speaker audio system (Gathers DSP 8 Speaker System) which included a center dash-mounted speaker and rear center subwoofer, while the U.S. version received only 7 speakers (center dash speaker not included). The Japanese version also included a digital climate control system. The Canadian version received some options which were not available in the United States. For instance, the Japanese Prelude had power folding mirrors as well as a rear windscreen wiper, while the Canadian market was the one to have heated mirrors and optional heated seats. The Japanese model came with optional Honda Access accessories such as Typus ski racks, under dash lights, headrest covers, a cabin air filter, and floor mats. Some of the Japanese domestic market fourth generation Prelude VTECs did not come with options such as a sunroof and 4-wheel steering, as it was possible to skip these options when buying in Japan. The fourth generation Prelude also shares some suspension components with the fifth generation (1994–97) Honda Accord. It also shares many suspension components with the 5th generation Prelude's that are not equipped ATTS system.
Models and markets chart:

Model	Engine			Steering	Chassis code	Markets
	Code	C/R	Power			Japan	USA	Canada	Europe	Australia
Si	F22B	9.5:1	160 PS	2WS	BA8
				4WS	BA9
Si VTEC	H22A	10.6:1	200 PS	2WS	BB4
				4WS	BB1
S	F22A1	8.8:1	133 PS	2WS	BA8
Si	H23A1	9.8:1	160 PS	2WS	BB2
				4WS	BB2
SE (1995)	H23A1	9.8:1	160 PS	2WS	BB2
VTEC (93-96)	H22A1	10.0:1	190 PS	2WS	BB1
Prelude	F22A1	8.8:1	133 PS	2WS	BA8
SR	H23A1	9.8:1	160 PS	2WS	BB2
				4WS	BB2
SR-V (93-96)	H22A1	10.0:1	190 PS	2WS	BB1
2.0i	F20A4	9.5:1	133 PS	2WS	BB3
2.3i	H23A2	9.8:1	160 PS	2WS	BB2
				4WS	BB2
2.2i VTEC (93-96)	H22A2	10.0:1	185 PS	2WS	BB1
				4WS	BB1
CV/S	F22A1	8.8:1	131 PS	2WS	BA8
Si	H23A1	9.8:1	160 PS	4WS	BB2
SRS (91-93)	H23A1	9.8:1	160 PS	4WS	BB2
VTi-R (94-96)	H22A1	10.0:1	190 PS	4WS	BB1

Honda Prelude generation 4 image gallery

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  Modified 1994 Prelude VTEC
  
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  1994 Prelude VTEC
  
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  1993 Prelude Si
  
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  1992 Prelude S
  

Fifth generation (1997–2001)

Fifth generation (BB5-BB9)
Overview
Production	11/1996–04/2001
Powertrain
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,586 mm (101.8 in)
Length	4,521 mm (178 in)
Width	1,753 mm (69 in)
Height	1,316 mm (51.8 in)
Curb weight	1,380 kg (3,042 lb)

Introduced on November 7, 1996, the fifth generation retained a FF layout with an independent front suspension and 63/37 weight distribution. Most fifth-generation Honda Preludes came with 16-inch (410 mm) aluminium alloy wheels with all-season 205/50 R16 87V tires. The 2.0i and JDM Si trims came with 195/60 R15 88H, and the JDM Xi came with 14" steel wheels. Unlike the US market Preludes, JDM Preludes came with rear wind screen wipers, except for the Xi. Most Prelude models now featured the 11.1" front brakes that the '96 VTEC model came with, and most Preludes also received a 5-lug hub, as opposed to the 4-lug wheel hub of older models.
The fifth-generation Prelude marked a return to the more square body style of the third generation (1988-1991), in an attempt to curb slumping sales of the fourth-generation body style. All models and trim packages stayed within the BB-chassis code (BB5-BB9) and housed either an H-series or F-Series engine:

Model	Engine			Steering	Chassis code	Markets
	Code	C/R	Power			Japan	USA	Canada	Europe	Australia
SCoupe	F22B	8.8:1	135 PS	2WS	BB5
Si	F22B	9.2:1	160 PS	2WS	BB5
				4WS	BB7
SiR	H22A	10.6:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6
				4WS	BB8
SiR S-spec	H22A	11.0:1	220 PS	2WS	BB6
Type S	H22A	11.0:1	217 PS	2WS	BB6
Base	H22A4	10.0:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6
Type SH	H22A4	10.0:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6
SE	H22A4	10.0:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6
2.0i	F20A4	9.5:1	133 PS	2WS	BB9
2.2 VTi	H22A5 (97-98) H22A8 (99-01)	10.0:1 11.0:1	185 PS 200 PS	2WS	BB6
				4WS	BB8
2.2 VTi-S	H22A5 (97-98) H22A8 (99-01)	10.0:1 11.0:1	185 PS 200 PS	2WS	BB6
Si	F22Z6	10.0:1	160 PS	2WS	BB5
VTi-R	H22A4 (97-98) H22Z1 (99-01)	10.0:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6
ATTS	H22A4 (97-98) H22Z1 (99-01)	10.0:1	200 PS	2WS	BB6

Type S

1997–2001 Honda Prelude VTi-R ATTS, Australia

One version of the fifth generation Prelude, a high-performance model called the Type S, was only available in Japan. It was equipped with the 2.2 L H22A, featuring VTEC and producing 217 hp (162 kW; 220 PS) at 7,200 rpm and 163 lbf·ft (221 N·m) at 6,500 rpm. With a compression ratio of 11.0:1, 87.0 mm (3.4 in) bore x 90.7 mm (3.6 in) stroke and VTEC-valve timing, lift and duration were adjusted to 12.2 mm (0.5 in) intake and 11.2 mm (0.4 in) exhaust. Honda also overhauled the air box and replaced it with a more efficient design that is often referred to as Dynamic Chambering, along with a larger throttle body design bored to 62 mm (as opposed to the previous 60 mm). The exhaust system was also treated to a redesign, with the pipe cross sections becoming more cylindrical rather than oval. The three-way catalytic converter was also increased in size, as well as the exhaust piping from 2 to 2¼ in (51 to 57 mm) (tToV). In addition to a higher output engine both Type S and USDM Type SH featured an overhauled front suspension layout which offered a more effective camber curve. The fifth generation curb weight was 1,310 kg (2,880 lb), and ground clearance was 140 mm (5.5 in)^{[citation needed]}. Unlike the SiR S-spec that had an LSD, the Type S acquired the Honda technology known as the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS). The gearing on the Type S matches all other fifth-generation Preludes that had a manual transmission except for the five-speed 2.2 VTi VTEC and had a final drive ratio of 4.266:1. The Type S had an Active Control ABS system, different from the others which had the standard ABS systems. The interior featured newly developed Carbon and Excene upholstered seats which most people see it as leather and alcantara laced with red stitching. Manufacturer styling options included seat lettering. The exterior styling of fifth generation Preludes was standardized for most models. All had a sunroof except for the Type S model.