1983-1987 Honda Prelude

The 1983-1987 Honda Prelude was bigger and better than the first generation. The new for '83 Prelude had a lower nose for a sportier look and improved aerodynamics. A new double-wishbone suspension made a lower hood-line possible and also helped make the Prelude one of the best handling front-drivers available at the time.

1983 Honda Prelude coupe.  See more pictures of classic cars.

In '84, discs replaced the rear drum brakes. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with dual carbs was carried over from the previous car. In late 1985 the Si joined the base model. The Si added a fuel-injected 2-liter engine, alloy wheels, and an upgraded interior. The new engine offered better drivability and felt stronger than its 10-horse increase suggested.

Pluses of the 1983-1987 Honda Prelude:

• Handling
• Well-built
• Smooth-running engine (Si)

Minuses of the 1983-1987 Honda Prelude:

• Handling comes at the price of a rough ride
• Lacks excitement
• Too plain to be noticed by the collector's market in the near future

Production* of the 1983 Honda Prelude:
41,188

Production* of the 1984 Honda Prelude:
66,924

Production* of the 1985 Honda Prelude:
75,938

Production* of the 1986 Honda Prelude:
79,841

Production* of the 1987 Honda Prelude:
72,708

*U.S. calendar year sales.

Specifications of the 1983-1987 Honda Prelude:
Length, inches: 68.9-172.0
Weight, pounds: 2,266-2,379
Wheelbase, inches: 96.5
Price, new: $9,987-$15,475 (U.S.)

Engines for the 1983-1987 Honda Prelude:

Type	Size	Horsepower	Years
ohc I-4	112 cid	100	1983-1987
ohc I-4	120 cid	110	1985-1987

Want more information about classic cars? See:

• Classic Cars
• Honda Cars
• Muscle Cars
• Sports Cars
• Consumer Guide Auto
• Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search