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What motor does a 1998 Honda Prelude have?


The 1998 Honda Prelude is a beloved sports coupe known for its sleek design, excellent handling, and reliable performance. One of the most frequently asked questions about this vehicle is regarding the motor it comes equipped with. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of the engine options available for the 1998 Honda Prelude, helping you better understand what makes this car such a standout in its class.


Engine Options for the 1998 Honda Prelude


The 1998 Honda Prelude was offered with two engine options, both of which were part of Honda's renowned H-series engine family. These engines were designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, making the Prelude a joy to drive. Here are the details:



  • Base Model Engine (H22A4): The standard engine for the 1998 Honda Prelude was a 2.2-liter DOHC (Dual Overhead Cam) inline-4 engine, known as the H22A4. This engine produced approximately 195 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for spirited driving.

  • Type SH Engine (H22A4 with ATTS): The Type SH trim of the Prelude also featured the H22A4 engine but came equipped with Honda's Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS). This system enhanced handling by redistributing torque to the wheels during cornering, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.


Key Features of the H22A4 Engine


The H22A4 engine was a standout for its time, offering several advanced features that contributed to the Prelude's performance and reliability. Here are some of the highlights:



  • VTEC Technology: The H22A4 engine featured Honda's Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system, which optimized performance at both low and high RPMs.

  • High Compression Ratio: With a compression ratio of 10.0:1, the engine delivered impressive power while maintaining efficiency.

  • Durability: The H-series engines were known for their robust construction, making them a favorite among tuners and performance enthusiasts.


Why the 1998 Honda Prelude Stands Out


The 1998 Honda Prelude remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts for its combination of style, performance, and reliability. The H22A4 engine, in particular, is a key factor in the car's enduring appeal. Whether you're considering purchasing a Prelude or simply want to learn more about this iconic vehicle, understanding its motor is an essential part of appreciating its legacy.


If you have any questions about maintaining or repairing your Honda Prelude, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to help keep your vehicle running smoothly!


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Honda Prelude a VTEC?


Honda Prelude Took the VTEC Engine to a Whole New Level
The 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine produced 190 horsepower, a generous increase of 30 horsepower over the non-VTEC 2.3-liter four-cylinder that powered the Prelude Si.



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.



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).



Are 1998 Honda Preludes reliable?


Among the 291 owners who provided feedback on the 1998 Honda Prelude for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 98% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's performance and quality to be its strongest features and comfort to be its weakest.



How long do Prelude engines last?


The Prelude in this generation came with the H22A4 engine. This engine is a fantastic engine for power in a 4 cylinder. They are generally reliable until around 150k miles.



Does H22 have VTEC?


The H23A DOHC VTEC has 87 mm × 95 mm (3.43 in × 3.74 in) (bore and stroke) and the H22A DOHC VTEC has 87 mm × 90.7 mm (3.43 in × 3.57 in) (bore and stroke).



What engine comes in a 1998 Honda Prelude?


97-01 HONDA PRELUDE 2.2L ENGINE W/ 5 SPEED TRANSMISSION M2S4 JDM H22A BASE MODEL.



What does VTEC stand for?


Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control
VTEC (described as Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control, but stands for Valve Timing Electronically Controlled) is a system developed by Honda to improve the volumetric efficiency of a four-stroke internal combustion engine, resulting in higher performance at high RPM, and lower fuel consumption at low RPM.



What engines do Honda 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)



Are Honda Preludes fast?


Generating 200 horsepower from 2.2 naturally aspirated liters is impressive, even if getting to that number requires winding it out to a lofty 7,000-rpm power peak. Torque is tepid at 156 lb-ft, but the Prelude only weighs a ton and a half. Keep the revs up and the Prelude is light and quick on its feet.


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.