What colors did the Honda Prelude come in?
The Honda Prelude was offered in a wide palette across its production run, with common exterior colors including white, black, red, blue, silver, gray and green.
Colors varied by generation and market, so the exact names and finishes differed from year to year and by region (Japan, North America, Europe). This article surveys color options by generation and explains how to verify the precise finish for a specific model year.
Color options by generation
The following overview highlights typical exterior color families seen on Prelude models across its five generations; exact names and availability varied by year and market.
- First generation (1978–1982): commonly offered solid colors such as white, black, red, blue, and green, with occasional metallic or pearl finishes in some regions.
- Second generation (1983–1987): broadened palette to include white, black, red, blue, brown/bronze hues, and metallic options.
- Third generation (1988–1991): expanded metallics and pearlescent finishes; common colors included white, black, red, blue, silver/gray, and green.
- Fourth generation (1991–1996): larger selection with multiple metallic/pearl options; typical colors included white, black, red, blue, silver, gray, green, and gold-toned shades.
- Fifth generation (1996–2001): the widest array, with white, black, red, blue, silver, gray, green, gold, and additional pearlescent colors in some markets.
Market and year variations: While the outlines above cover common trends, the exact color names and availability varied by country and model year. Always check the original brochure or the vehicle’s color code plate to confirm the precise finish.
Special finishes and regional differences
In addition to base and metallic colors, some markets offered pearl or two-tone finishes, and rare dealer-exclusive shades.
- Pearl/pearl-effect finishes were common in later generations, offering a more luminous look in sunlight.
- Two-tone options existed on some trims in certain markets, particularly during the 1990s era, though these were not universally available.
Note: Color availability could vary by trim level and era; some hues may appear differently in photos or brochures depending on lighting and production year.
How to verify the exact color for a specific Prelude
To confirm the precise color, locate the vehicle’s color code on the driver’s door jamb or under the hood, then cross-check with the original brochure or Honda’s color code catalog for that year. Online listings for a given year often list color names that correspond to official codes; cross-reference with color code charts from collectors or Honda clubs for accuracy.
Summary: The Honda Prelude offered a broad color palette across its five generations, ranging from basic whites and blacks to a spectrum of reds, blues, silvers, grays, greens, and golds, including metallic and pearl finishes in many markets. Exact color names and availability depend on the generation and region, so consult original brochures or color code data to confirm a specific year’s finish.
What is the most sought after Honda Prelude?
According to some sources, one of the most sought-after years of the Prelude is 1997, because enthusiasts covet the 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine. The two model years with zero logged complaints were 2000 and 1996.
What are the colors of the Honda Prelude?
The 2026 Prelude is available in five bold colors, including the new Winter Frost Pearl, which is available with either a bodycolor or black roof option. Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rally Red also are available, along with Boost Blue Pearl.
What colors will the 2026 Honda Prelude come in?
The 2026 Honda Prelude will be available in five colors: Winter Frost Pearl (with body or black roof options), Meteorite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Rally Red, and Boost Blue Pearl. A new white color, Winter Frost Pearl, has been announced, along with the other options.
- Winter Frost Pearl: A new white option that can have a body-color or black roof.
- Meteorite Gray Metallic: A metallic gray color.
- Crystal Black Pearl: A deep, glossy black.
- Rally Red: A bold red option.
- Boost Blue Pearl: A blue color.
What colors did the 2001 Honda Prelude come in?
Select Your Paint Color for your 2001 Honda Prelude
| Color Codes | Color Description |
|---|---|
| NH538 | Frost White |
| NH552M | Sebring Silver Metallic |
| NH592P, NH592P-2, NH592P-4 | Flamenco Black Pearl |
| NH603P, NH603P-1, NH603P-3 | White Diamond Pearl |
