A Visual History of the Honda Prelude, from 1979 to Present

Introduced in the late 1970s, the Honda Prelude was crafted to offer a sportier alternative to the more utilitarian Civic and Accord. This first-generation model was launched alongside the Accord sedan, featuring a compact design with distinct styling. Under the hood, it housed a 1.8-liter engine, sharing its powertrain with the Accord. A lesser-known fact is that some of these early Preludes were converted into convertibles by third-party companies and sold through Honda dealerships. With its unique blend of style and performance, the Prelude quickly carved out a niche among car enthusiasts.

The second-generation Prelude, released in 1983, marked a significant design shift with a modern wedge shape and pop-up headlights. This era saw the introduction of the Si model, which stood for 'sport injected,' powered by a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine. This model set a precedent for Honda's performance-focused vehicles and was a precursor to the high-performance variants that would follow in later generations.

The third-generation Prelude, produced from 1988 to 1991, retained the familiar pop-up headlight design but introduced technological advancements such as the four-wheel steering system (4WS). This feature allowed the rear wheels to turn in conjunction with the front wheels for improved handling. The Si model continued to evolve, boasting up to 140 horsepower by the end of this generation, solidifying the Prelude's reputation for combining style with performance.

The fourth generation, spanning 1992 to 1996, embraced the curved, aerodynamic designs popular in the 1990s. It was during this period that the Prelude became the first Honda in the U.S. to feature the double overhead cam (DOHC) VTEC system, significantly enhancing engine performance. The 1993 Prelude VTEC boasted a 2.2-liter engine, producing 190 horsepower, and was the last to offer rear-wheel steering in the U.S., making it a standout model of its time.

In 1997, Honda launched the fifth-generation Prelude, reverting to a more squared-off design while dropping the pop-up headlights. This version came standard with a 2.2-liter VTEC engine producing 200 horsepower. Notably, the Prelude SH model introduced the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), enhancing handling capabilities. It quickly gained acclaim, outperforming several of its rivals, including the BMW 3-series and the Chevrolet Camaro, in handling tests.

The Prelude's resurrection as a sixth-generation model has been long-awaited. Set to hit the market as a 2026 model, this new iteration is a hybrid coupe featuring a 2.0-liter engine shared with the Civic Hybrid. While it may lack the manual transmission of its predecessors, it offers modern amenities such as paddle shifters and an S+ driving mode. With a hatchback design, the new Prelude promises greater cargo space, maintaining its legacy as a driver’s car. Enthusiasts eagerly await its arrival, hoping it will continue the tradition of innovation and performance.