Is a 1997 Honda Prelude front or rear wheel drive?
The 1997 Honda Prelude is front-wheel drive (FWD).
In this article we explain the drivetrain layout of the 1997 Prelude, what FWD means for driving characteristics, and clarify common questions about features such as four-wheel steering that appeared on some trims.
Drivetrain fundamentals for the 1997 Prelude
The following points summarize the key drivetrain attributes you would encounter on a typical 1997 Prelude in most markets.
- Layout: front-engine, front-wheel drive (FWD)
- Engine: commonly a 2.0- or 2.2-liter H-series engine that delivers power to the front axle
- Transmission options: usually a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, depending on market and trim
- All-wheel drive: not offered on the Prelude in the U.S. market; some SH trims offered advanced steering features
- Four-wheel steering (4WS): available on some SH trims, designed to improve handling but does not change the fundamental FWD configuration
These facts illustrate that the Prelude remains front-driven overall, with certain handling-oriented features that can affect turn-in and stability but do not convert it to AWD.
Four-wheel steering vs. all-wheel drive
Four-wheel steering (4WS) on select SH trims is a steering assist system that changes rear-wheel angle to aid agility. It is not the same as all-wheel drive, which would power all four wheels. The 1997 Prelude did not offer AWD as a factory option, so 4WS is a chassis and steering feature, not a drivetrain replacement.
Additional context and regional notes
Across markets, Honda's Prelude remained a front-wheel-drive coupe through its final 2001 model year. Even in years where 4WS was available, the car stayed exclusive to front-wheel power delivery. This distinction matters for buyers considering winter traction, maintenance, and spare parts compatibility.
Summary
The 1997 Honda Prelude is a front-wheel-drive vehicle. While some trims offered advanced steering features such as four-wheel steering, the car did not come with factory all-wheel drive. Its driving dynamics come from a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout complemented by available manual or automatic transmissions depending on market and trim.
