Honda
Honda mid-size sport coupe across five generations from 1978 to 2001. The fourth and fifth generations are particularly respected.
The Honda Prelude is a mid-size sport coupe produced from 1978 to 2001. The Prelude was Honda upmarket two-door coupe, positioned above the Civic and Integra in the lineup. The model went through five generations, with the fourth (1992-1996) and fifth (1997-2001) generations particularly regarded as well-engineered grand tourers. The fourth-generation Prelude (BA8, BA9, BB1) introduced the H-series engine to the platform, with the H22A1 in the Si and SH variants making 200 horsepower. The chassis used double wishbone suspension front and rear (a Honda specialty), and the Si was particularly well-balanced. The SH (Super Handling) variant added Honda first ATTS (Active Torque Transfer System), an early electronic torque vectoring system that improved cornering performance. The fifth-generation Prelude (BB6, BB8) refined the formula with revised styling and improved interior. The SH variant continued with the ATTS system and the H22A4 engine. Production ended in 2001 with no direct successor; Honda focused on the Civic, Acura RSX, and other platforms going forward. Honda has announced a new Prelude for production starting around 2025-2026, which would revive the nameplate after a 25-year hiatus. The new Prelude is expected to use a hybrid powertrain. Specifications and timing have not been finalized. On WhipJury, Prelude submissions are increasingly common as the cars age into nostalgia. Fourth-generation Si and SH builds are particularly popular, often with H22A engine modifications, suspension upgrades, and OEM-plus styling.
The H22A inline-four (used in fourth and fifth generation Preludes) is one of Honda's more significant non-K-series engines. 2.2 liters, naturally aspirated, dual overhead cam with VTEC. 200 horsepower in stock form (slightly more in JDM Type S variants). The H22A has been swap-popular for various Honda projects, including Civic and Integra builds.
First (1978-1982). Original Prelude. Conservative styling, modest performance.
Second (1983-1987). Refresh with sleeker styling.
Third (1988-1991). First Prelude with sport-tuned chassis and 4-wheel steering option.
Fourth (1992-1996). The breakthrough generation. H22 engines, double-wishbone suspension, SH variant with ATTS torque vectoring.
Fifth (1997-2001). Refined fourth-generation. Discontinued 2001.
Fourth and fifth generation Si and SH submissions are common. JDM Prelude Type S imports (with H22A4 making slightly more power) appear occasionally. Modified examples often have H22A swaps, suspension upgrades, or aftermarket aerodynamics. The community recognizes the Prelude as an underrated Honda chapter.