What size speakers are in the 97 prelude?
The stock setup for a 1997 Honda Prelude typically centers on 6.5-inch front speakers, with rear speaker sizes varying by trim and market. In many cases, you’ll encounter 4x6-inch rear speakers in the doors or 6x9-inch speakers on the rear deck in higher-trim or upgraded systems. Exact sizes can differ by production run and regional spec, so it’s best to confirm for your specific vehicle.
Stock configuration by location
To understand what you’ll find in a particular Prelude, consider the two main speaker locations: the front doors and the rear area. The front door setup is the most standardized, while the rear can differ more widely depending on trim level and market.
Front door speakers
Most 1997 Prelude models place the primary audio in the front doors, and the standard size is:
- Diameter: 6.5 inches (165 mm) in the majority of US-spec vehicles
- Typical aftermarket replacement options: 6.5-inch components or coaxials
In practice, front-door 6.5-inch units are the common baseline you’ll encounter when inspecting or upgrading the system.
Rear speaker options
The rear area of the Prelude varies more by trim and region. Depending on the exact model, you may find one of these configurations:
- Rear doors: 4x6 inches (a common aftermarket-friendly size for rear fills)
- Rear deck/shelf: 6x9 inches in some higher-trim or upgraded systems
Because there isn’t a single universal rear-size standard for all 1997 Preludes, it’s important to verify what your specific VIN and market originally used.
How to verify the exact size on your car
To ensure you get the correct replacement or upgrade parts, use these checks before purchasing or removing anything:
- Remove the door panel or rear deck cover and measure the mounting diameter and depth of the speaker opening
- Check the service manual or parts catalog for your exact VIN to confirm OEM speaker size
- Look for existing OEM speaker part numbers on the back of the current speakers or in the owner’s manual
- Consult a Honda dealer or a trusted automotive audio specialist with your vehicle’s year and trim information
Verifying the precise size for your car helps avoid fitment issues and ensures compatibility with aftermarket options.
Upgrading considerations
If you’re planning to upgrade, consider whether you want coaxial or component sets for the front, and whether you’ll upgrade the rear as well. Common guidelines include staying within the same nominal diameter for a clean fit (6.5 inches in the front) and choosing a compatible impedance (most aftermarket 6.5-inch speakers are 4-ohm, but check your system’s requirements). Proper mounting depth and a spacer or trim ring may be needed to maintain a flush install and preserve door panel fitment.
Summary
For the 1997 Prelude, the front speakers are typically 6.5 inches in diameter, and rear speaker configurations vary by trim and market, with common options including 4x6 inches in the rear doors or 6x9 inches on the rear deck. Always verify using your vehicle’s VIN, service manual, or a parts catalog, especially if you’re planning an upgrade.
