What engines do Preludes have?
The engine lineup for Honda Preludes evolved from a 1.6-liter base to 2.2-liter H-series with VTEC, spanning five generations from 1978 to 2001.
In this article, we detail the engines offered in each generation, noting when larger displacements and VTEC were introduced and how market differences affected availability.
Engine lineup by generation
First generation (1978–1982)
Overview: The earliest Prelude relied on a small, 1.6-liter inline-four. This period featured a shift from carbureted setups toward electronic fuel injection as technology progressed.
- 1.6 L inline-four (1.6 L, 4-cylinder; initial carbureted configurations, later fuel-injected variants)
Conclusion: A single, compact engine defined the first Prelude, prioritizing light weight and city-friendly performance.
Second generation (1983–1987)
Overview: With more power and refinement, the second generation commonly used a larger inline-four, expanding displacement to improve mid-range performance. Market-specific options varied.
- 1.8 L inline-four
- 1.6 L inline-four (in certain markets)
Conclusion: The second generation broadened engine options, favoring a more capable 1.8-liter baseline in most regions.
Third generation (1988–1991)
Overview: The 3rd generation standardized around a 2.0-liter powerplant, with the F20A family becoming the main engine in many markets and refinements improving efficiency and output.
- 2.0 L inline-four F20A (DOHC, 16-valve common in this era)
- 1.8 L inline-four (less common in some markets)
Conclusion: The move to a 2.0 L baseline marked a clear performance upgrade for late-1980s Preludes.
Fourth generation (1992–1996)
Overview: The 4th generation expanded the lineup with a larger 2.2-liter option and introduced VTEC in higher-spec models, while some base trims continued with smaller or non-VTEC variants.
- 2.2 L inline-four H22A (DOHC; VTEC available on higher-spec models)
- 2.0 L inline-four F-series (used in some markets or trim levels)
Conclusion: The 2.2 L H-series and the addition of VTEC on top trims gave the era a higher-performance edge.
Fifth generation (1997–2001)
Overview: The final generation largely carried a 2.2-liter setup, with the H22A family continuing and a VTEC-equipped variant (notably on performance-oriented trims) enhancing output and responsiveness.
- 2.2 L inline-four H22A (DOHC; VTEC available on Type SH and other high-end trims)
Conclusion: The late-1990s Prelude consolidated the 2.2 L VTEC formula, balancing daily usability with sportier capability.
Notable notes on engine codes and availability
Across generations, Honda used several engine codes to identify the powerplants, such as F20A for 2.0 L engines and H22A for 2.2 L engines. Availability of VTEC and the exact variant varied by market and trim level, with higher-performance models typically offering VTEC-equipped H-series powertrains.
Summary
The Honda Prelude progressed from a 1.6-liter baseline to a 2.2-liter H-series, adding VTEC in later years and increasing overall refinement and performance. The evolution reflects Honda’s broader emphasis on compact sports-sedan dynamics, with engine choices shaped by market needs and model year. If you’re evaluating a Prelude, check the engine code (F20A, H22A, etc.) to understand the key characteristics and maintenance expectations.
