The Honda Prelude was a front wheel drive I4-engined coupe that was manufactured by Honda between 1978 and 2001. It evolved over five generations, but eventually discontinued due to decreasing sales and popularity. The Prelude had many competitors, namely the Toyota Celica, Nissan Silvia, Isuzu Impulse, Mitsubishi FTO, Mitsubishi Cordia (later the Eclipse), and the Mazda MX-6.
1978
The first generation Prelude was released in 1978, and was the third main model in Honda's modern lineup, behind the Civic and Accord. It was equipped with a 1751 cc SOHC CVCC I4 engine that produced 72 hp and 94 lbf-ft of torque with a 5-speed manual transmission, and 68 hp with a 2-speed automatic called the Hondamatic.
1983
The second generation of the Prelude was released in 1983 and was initially available with a 1.8-litre 12-valve carburated engine, producing 100 hp, and fuel injection was introduced in 1985 - in the "Si" models. In Japan, Asia, and Europe, it was available with a 2-litre DOHC 16-valve PGM-FI engine. This engine was not released until 1986 in Europe. The second-gen Prelude had pop-up headlights for a more aerodynamic look with reduced drag. Due to the low weight (1,025 kg) and high power (137 hp) of the second-gen car, it was nimble and could easily outpace its competitors.
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