Honda's Hidden Gem: Unveiling the Prelude's Untold Story

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【Summary】The Honda Prelude initially had low horsepower and slow acceleration, but the second generation saw significant improvements in performance and handling. The Prelude Si, introduced in 1985, had a more powerful engine and electronic injection.

FutureCar Staff Oct 07, 2023 9:17 AM PT

Honda's Hidden Gem: Unveiling the Prelude's Untold Story

The 1978 model year Prelude was not Honda's strongest effort. While it had a decent appearance, its mechanical performance left much to be desired. With only 72 horsepower, it was not a powerful car. It took a leisurely 19 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour, a time comparable to the Zastava Yugo, which was known for its slow speed.

Fortunately, the first generation Prelude was only produced until 1983. The arrival of the second generation Prelude brought significant improvements. With a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, it boasted 100 horsepower, making it a more capable and enjoyable car to drive. The suspension upgrades also enhanced its performance and handling, making it stand out from the average Accord. Additionally, it offered a respectable fuel efficiency of 38 miles per gallon.

Honda continued to refine and enhance the Prelude to make it faster and more captivating. In 1985, the Honda Prelude Si was introduced, featuring a larger 1.9-liter engine with an extra 10 horsepower. This model also incorporated electronic injection, a technology derived from Honda's Formula 1 expertise, replacing the previous carbureted system. The second generation Prelude concluded in 1987, leaving a lasting impression.