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What engine is in a 1997 prelude?

The 1997 Honda Prelude was powered by a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine, known as the H22A4, was one of Honda's most powerful and technologically advanced four-cylinder engines of the time.


Engine Specifications


The H22A4 engine in the 1997 Honda Prelude had the following key specifications:



  • Displacement: 2.2 liters (2,157 cc)

  • Cylinder configuration: Inline four-cylinder

  • Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts)

  • Horsepower: 195 hp (145 kW) at 7,200 rpm

  • Torque: 156 lb-ft (211 Nm) at 6,500 rpm

  • Compression ratio: 10.2:1

  • Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection


The H22A4 engine was known for its high-revving nature and impressive power output for a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. It was a significant upgrade over the previous-generation Prelude's 2.0-liter engine, providing a noticeable boost in performance.


Engine Technology


The H22A4 engine featured several advanced technologies that contributed to its impressive performance:



  • VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control): This system allowed the engine to switch between a low-lift, long-duration cam profile for low-end torque and a high-lift, short-duration profile for high-rpm power, providing a broad and responsive power band.

  • Forged Crankshaft: The crankshaft was made of forged steel, which was stronger and more durable than the cast-iron crankshafts used in many other engines of the time.

  • Lightweight Pistons and Connecting Rods: The engine's internal components were designed to be as lightweight as possible, reducing reciprocating mass and allowing for higher revs.


These advanced features, combined with Honda's renowned engineering expertise, made the H22A4 engine a standout performer in the 1997 Honda Prelude.

Is Prelude a VTEC?


Honda Prelude Took the VTEC Engine to a Whole New Level
In 1993, the fourth-generation Prelude inaugurated an evolution of Honda's VTEC engines, pairing dual overhead camshafts with the company's variable valve timing and lift technology.



Which Prelude has H22?


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).



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.



What engines do Preludes have?


Models and markets

ModelEngine
CodePower
2.0iF20A4133 PS (98 kW; 131 hp)
2.3iH23A2160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp)
2.2i VTEC (93–96)H22A2185 PS (136 kW; 182 hp)



What is a j35 engine?


The j30 j32 j35 and j37. All j series engines are pretty closely. Related they're all designed for transverse mounting they all have short bore spacing short connecting rods.



How much HP does a H22 VTEC have?


Bolt-ons, cams, and forged pistons will get it over 200 HP at the wheels.



What's the difference between H22 and H23?


The H23 is typically cheaper, making it a great option for budget-conscious tuners. It delivers a solid 160 lb-ft of torque, perfect for zipping around town. The H22, while pricier, offers a heart-pounding 137 lb-ft of torque.



What is the engine code for a 1997 Honda Prelude?


1997 Honda PRELUDE (2.2L 4 -cyl Engine Code H22A4 6) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.



What car did the H22A4 come in?


Fifth Generation Honda Prelude: 1997-2001
Engine choices were reduced to the singular 2.2-liter H22A4 four-cylinder, spitting out 195 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque through either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.



Which Prelude has pop-ups?


Second Generation: 1983–1987
In the same year that the Honda Accord won our 10Best award for the first time, Honda introduced a new generation of the Prelude. Its far more modern design introduced a wedge shape and pop-up headlights.


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.