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Does the 3rd gen Prelude have VTEC?

Yes, the 3rd generation Honda Prelude did feature VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology. VTEC was a key component of the Prelude's high-performance engine, providing improved power and efficiency compared to previous models.


The 3rd Generation Honda Prelude


The 3rd generation Honda Prelude was produced from 1992 to 1996. It was a significant redesign of the popular sports coupe, featuring a sleeker, more aerodynamic body style and a range of engine options, including the VTEC-equipped variant.


VTEC Technology in the Prelude


The VTEC system in the 3rd gen Prelude was used on the top-of-the-line 2.2-liter H22A4 engine. This engine produced 190 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase over the non-VTEC variants. The VTEC system allowed the engine to switch between two different camshaft profiles, providing a broader power band and improved fuel efficiency.


Benefits of VTEC in the Prelude



  • Increased Power: The VTEC system allowed the H22A4 engine to produce more horsepower and torque, giving the Prelude impressive performance for its time.

  • Improved Efficiency: The variable valve timing and lift provided by VTEC helped the engine operate more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy.

  • Responsive Driving Dynamics: The broad power band of the VTEC engine made the Prelude feel lively and responsive, with a strong mid-range punch that was well-suited for spirited driving.


The inclusion of VTEC technology in the 3rd generation Honda Prelude was a significant factor in the model's popularity and reputation as a high-performance sports coupe. The VTEC engine provided a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and driving enjoyment that helped cement the Prelude's status as a beloved enthusiast's car.

What engine does the 3rd gen Honda Prelude have?


B20A engine
Third Generation Honda Prelude: 1988-1991
Honda's venerable B20A engine series powers the entire range, with the base B20A3 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder pushing 109 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque through either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.



What engine has 3 stage VTEC?


Three-stage VTEC is a multi-stage implementation of Honda's VTEC and VTEC-E (colloquially known as dual VTEC) technology, implemented in some of the company's D series engines from 1995 to the present day, allowing the engine to achieve both fuel efficiency and power.



Which Prelude has the H22A?


H22A. Found in the Japanese 4th gen 1992-1996 Prelude Si VTEC (2WS BB4 & 4WS BB1). It produces 200 PS (147 kW; 197 hp) @ 6,800 rpm & 161.5 ft⋅lbf (219 N⋅m) @ 5,500 rpm and comes with a black valve cover. Found in the Japanese 5th gen 1997-2001 Prelude SiR (2WS BB6 & 4WS BB8).



Does a 1997 Honda Prelude have VTEC?


Aside from its handling prowess, the Prelude is defined by its powerful, 2.2-liter, VTEC engine. This gutsy four-cylinder powerplant is uncanny in its willingness to rev to more than 7,000 rpm.



Does the 2001 Honda Prelude have VTEC?


The Prelude's 2.2-liter, VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) engine generates 156 foot-pounds of torque.



Does 1992 Honda Prelude have VTEC?


This Prelude is powered by an H22 DOHC VTEC engine which was only offered in Japan. The engine starts right away, idles smoothly, and accelerates well with VTEC engaging as it should. The 5 speed manual transmission shifts correctly and the clutch does not slip.



Which preludes have VTEC?


Fifth Generation: 1997–2001
All fifth-gen Preludes came with a VTEC 2.2-liter inline-four with 200 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque.



Is the H22 a good engine?


Short of the K-series motors, the H22 has the most torque out of any Honda four-cylinder motor and backs it up with 200-plus hp. Bolt a turbo setup onto a stock H22 and it becomes a very potent machine. Build a turbo motor out of an H22 and it's unstoppable.



Does 1999 Honda Prelude have VTEC?


But the old Prelude, despite its VTEC drama, is not as quick as it feels.



Does H22 have VTEC?


H22. The H22 debuted in the U.S. in 1993 as the H22A1 for use in the Honda Prelude VTEC. Since then, versions of the H22 would become the Prelude's signature high-performance engine worldwide until the end of Prelude production in 2001.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.