How much HP does a Prelude make?
The Honda Prelude's horsepower varies widely by generation and trim. In general, early models produced around 100 hp, while the later, high-performance versions push toward about 210 hp.
First generation (1978–1982)
The inaugural Prelude offered modest power by today’s standards, with most markets delivering roughly 95–110 horsepower from its early inline-four engines.
Notable figures by market and year reflect conservative power outputs as Honda experimented with the model’s performance focus in its youth.
- US/Canada and similar markets: about 95–110 hp from the initial 1.6–1.8 L engines
- Export variants: typically around 100 hp, with slight year-to-year variations
Across the first generation, the Prelude established its nimble handling and styling; horsepower remained modest compared with later generations.
Second generation (1983–1987)
The second generation moved toward a more refined powertrain lineup, nudging horsepower upward as engine technology improved. Expect roughly 110–130 hp depending on the exact engine and market.
Improvements in displacement and tuning yielded a small but meaningful jump in output over the first generation.
- Early 2.0 L developments: about 110–125 hp
- Late-model variants and market variations: up to around 130 hp
By the end of the 1980s, the Prelude was appreciably more muscular, setting the stage for the higher-output versions to come.
Third generation (1988–1991)
The third generation saw a notable increase in performance, with more modern DOHC configurations pushing horsepower into the mid-to-high teens of horsepower numbers for a compact coupe of that era.
Typical ranges for this era sit around 135–160 hp, depending on the engine tuning and market.
- US-market 2.0 L DOHC setups: roughly 135–150 hp
- Higher-output or region-specific variants: up to about 160 hp
This generation established the Prelude as a genuinely sporty performer within Honda’s lineup, particularly for enthusiasts seeking more dynamic acceleration.
Fourth generation (1992–1996)
Most well-known configurations delivered around 160–190 hp, with certain trim levels reaching close to 200 hp in markets that offered stronger F-series/tuning variants.
- Base/early trims: about 160–170 hp
- Higher-end variants: around 190 hp
During this generation, the Prelude solidified its reputation for responsive handling and engaging driving characteristics, aided by the growing horsepower ceiling.
Fifth generation (1997–2001)
The final generation represents the peak in stock horsepower for the Prelude, dominated by the 2.2 L VTEC-derived engines and the optional drivetrain enhancements in higher trims.
Typical US-spec horsepower sits near 200 hp for the base 2.2 L engines, with performance-oriented trims pushing higher, commonly around 210 hp in the top trims. Market variants can vary by a few horsepower depending on emissions tuning and gear ratios.
- USDM base 2.2 L: about 200 hp
- Top trims (including performance-oriented SH/SH-AWD variants, where offered): around 210 hp
In its final years, the Prelude offered a compelling blend of horsepower, handling, and advanced features like four-wheel steering in certain trims, closing out its production run with strong performance credentials.
Summary
Across its five generations, the Honda Prelude evolved from a modestly powered coupe to a capable sports car with flagship models delivering around 210 hp. When evaluating a Prelude, it’s essential to identify the exact generation, year, and trim, as horsepower varied notably by market and configuration. For prospective buyers or restorers, checking the specific engine code (for example, the late-generation VTEC-based setups) and verifying the original manufacturer specifications will yield the most accurate horsepower figure.
