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How much HP does a 1999 Prelude have?

In brief, horsepower for the 1999 Honda Prelude varies by trim and market. Most U.S.-spec models sit around 200 horsepower, with higher-output versions near 210 horsepower, and some international variants using different engines can reach roughly 221–225 horsepower.


Overview of engine options


US-spec base and SH trims


The bulk of the 1999 Prelude lineup in the United States used a 2.2-liter engine configuration with modest gains for the higher-output variant. The base model commonly delivered about 200 hp, while the higher-output Type SH trim nudged the figure up to around 210 hp.



  • Base Prelude (2.2L F22B2): approximately 200 hp

  • Prelude Type SH (2.2L F22B2 with VTEC features): approximately 210 hp


These figures reflect the late-1990s approach to balancing everyday drivability with a sportier edge for the Prelude lineup.


International variants and higher-output options


H-series engines and market differences


Around the world, Honda offered higher-output variants tied to the H-series family. In these markets, some Prelude models used the H22A-type engine, which produced more horsepower than the U.S. base setups.



  • JDM/other markets with H22A variants: around 225 PS (roughly 221 hp)


Note that exact horsepower can vary by year specification, emissions standards, and drivetrain tuning, so a specific car may differ slightly from these general numbers.


Summary


The 1999 Prelude typically ranged from about 200 hp in the base configuration to roughly 210 hp in the higher-output U.S. trim, with select international variants reaching about 221–225 hp using H-series engines. For precise figures, verify the vehicle’s trim code and VIN to confirm the exact engine specification.

Which Prelude has 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. This new version introduced a trim level called SH, which came with a torque-vectoring system and different wheels and tires compared with the base car.



Is a Honda Prelude fast?


Initial real-world 0-62 mph time for the Prelude was a slow 9.2 seconds. A different driving technique reduced the time to 7.2 seconds, bypassing S+ Shift limitations. Honda has yet to reveal the official performance figures of the Prelude.



What engine is in a 1999 Honda Prelude?


2.2-liter H22A4 four
Honda gave the Prelude a light refresh in 1999, which included a new exhaust header and revised valve timing that bumped the output of the "big block" 2.2-liter H22A4 four from 195 to 200 horsepower when paired with a five-speed manual, the only transmission available for the Type SH.



How fast is a 1999 Honda Prelude?


Read More

1999 Honda Prelude SH Specifications
WHEELBASE101.8 in
WEIGHT3,042 lb
0-60 MPH7.0 sec
TOP SPEED140 mph


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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.