1991
The fourth generation of Prelude had a big overhaul for 1991, releasing outside of Japan in 1992. Its weight distribution was 58% front and 42% rear. There was an electronic version of the four-wheel steering system too. The engine came in three sizes, the base "S" model boasted a 2.1 L SOHC F22A1 engine with 135 hp (101 kW) @ 5200 rpm and 142 ft·lbf (193 N·m) @ 4000 rpm, the "VTEC" model with a 2.2 L DOHC VTEC H22A1 engine producing 190 hp (143 kW) @ 6800 rpm and 158 ft·lbf (212 N·m) @ 5500 rpm, and the less performance-oriented 2.3 L for the "Si" with a DOHC H23A1 engine at 160 hp (115 kW) @ 5800 rpm and 156 ft·lbf (212 N·m) @ 5300 rpm. In the UK there was a 2.0i model with 125 bhp (93 kW). The "Si-VTEC" moniker was used in 1993 and was shortened to just "VTEC" for the rest of the generation. In Canada, the Si was known as the SR and the VTEC was named the SR-V. At this model, the pop-up headlights ended and many other design features changed shape. The rear end was no longer flat and wide but wider, rounder, and fairly high. The front fascia became wider with fixed headlights. The glass sunroof changed to a steel sliding roof, which extended out and over the car to create a spoiler and reduce air noise. The dashboard was widely acclaimed for being extraordinary. It stretched from left to right, being equal in height across the whole thing, and housed all dials and indicators. The light blue backlighting from the third generation wasn't changed, and later models introduced translucent speedometer and tachometer needles. The Japanese version had exclusive features, such as power folding and heated side mirrors and a rear windscreen wiper. Meanwhile, the Canadian market had heated seats. In the UK, the Prelude didn't become a must-have amid sports car enthusiasts. It was often overlooked for the more popular Toyota MR-2 and other rivals, notably due to its reportedly cramped interior and being overshadowed by more famous Honda performance cars like the Civic Type-R, NSX, and later the S2000. Nonetheless, it showed competitive style, speed, and build quality and developed something of a cult following - particularly with manual transmission models - in the UK and US.Show off your passion for classic Japanese engineering with Honda Prelude Si 1991 posters, mouse pads, t-shirts and calendars! Featuring a classic 1991 design, these products are a great way to show your love for the timeless Prelude. Get your Honda gear today and be part of a proud legacy!
