BF Auction: 1997 Honda Prelude SH

• Seller: Christopher R oche
• Location: Londonderry, New Hampshire
• Mileage: 224,885 Shown
• Chassis #: JHMBB6150VC008443
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 2.2 Liter VTEC 4-Cylinder
• Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Honda management announced at the dawn of the 1970s that the company was focusing on becoming a major player in the passenger car market. Many people struggled to suppress their laughter because while it had produced quirky and interesting vehicles, none seemed destined to become volume-sellers. However, the game changed when it unveiled the Civic in 1972, while this 1997 Prelude SH demonstrates how rapidly the company developed. This two-door sports car offers impressive performance and comfort, and Honda’s well-earned reputation for reliability means it should be plying our roads for many years. The current owner located it in 2022, reviving the Prelude after a decade in hibernation. It has provided enormous enjoyment, but he feels the time is right for this Honda to find a new home. Therefore, the owner has listed this Japanese classic exclusively with us as a Barn Finds Auction.

Honda introduced its Fifth Generation Prelude range to the waiting world in November 1996, with our feature car rolling off the line during the first model year. Its history is fascinating, with the first owner utilizing the car as a daily driver until he parked it in 2012. The current owner revived the one-owner classic in 2022, and the photo gallery demonstrates that it is a rock-solid vehicle with no rust issues. The Milano Red paint exhibits deterioration in a couple of spots, with the roof and trunk spoiler both showing signs of fading and clearcoat faults. Addressing these shortcomings without resorting to a complete repaint is possible, as is touching up the leading edge of the hood and front bumper, which have accumulated minor stone chips. However, since the faults aren’t severe and the paint generally retains a healthy shine, the buyer could leave those areas untouched. The owner confirms that the Prelude suffered minor accident damage before arriving in his garage. Both incidents were minor bumps on the rear quarter panels that didn’t render the car undrivable. With no signs of deterioration, it is safe to say the repairs were performed to a high standard. The owner replaced the factory wheels with a classy set of Borbet alloys. He includes the original wheels, but they require refinishing if the winning bidder wants to return the exterior to a more stock state. The plastic is in good order, and the glass is clear.

One of the keys to Honda’s ongoing success was a major commitment to global motorsport. The company used lessons learned in that environment to produce some of the best small-capacity engines in automotive history. This Prelude benefits from that approach, with the engine bay housing the 2,156cc VTEC four producing 195hp and 158 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to the road via a five-speed manual transmission, and with the ability to cover the ¼-mile in 15.6 seconds, it is fair to say that this Prelude punches above its weight. After sitting for a decade, this Honda required TLC to return to active service, and the owner pulled out all the stops to ensure it was mechanically A1. All four corners feature shiny new calipers, pads, and Powerstop discs. They hide behind the new 17″ wheels, wrapped in Hankook Ventus V2 tires. The list of replacement parts is extensive, including the radiator, alternator, knock sensor, water pump, thermostat, timing belt, balance shaft belt, idlers, plugs, exhaust downpipe, and the master and slave cylinders for the clutch. The Prelude had 224,477 miles on its odometer when collected from the original owner, and that figure has only climbed to 224,885 miles since. The owner indicates there is a slight rear main seal oil leak, but that appears to be the only minor fault in a car that is a turnkey proposition.

Although Honda marketed the Prelude as a sports car, classing it as a Grand Tourer would not be unfair. The interior offers exceptional comfort, while that sweet little four under the hood will allow it to cover enormous distances effortlessly. The new owner receives a wide range of safety and comfort features, including dual airbags, air conditioning that blows ice-cold, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control, a remote trunk release, rear defogger, a leather-wrapped tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/CD player. Potential buyers who aren’t fans of A/C have a wonderful alternative. They can open the glass sunroof and enjoy the fresh air provided by Mother Nature. There are no aftermarket additions, and the owner includes the Owner’s Manual and radio code for future reference. The interior presents exceptionally well for its age. There is minor wear on the driver’s seat outer edge and a mark on the headliner, but they are the only faults worth noting. The Gray cloth and vinyl upholstered surfaces are excellent, and there is no evidence of cracked or crumbling plastic. The first owner decided to fit genuine Prelude floor mats, protecting the carpet from typical wear and tear. The cash splash didn’t end with the mechanical components, because the owner replaced many of the A/C components, and added a new heater core.

This 1997 Honda Prelude SH is a wonderful survivor with a known history (view CarFax). The current owner has an eye for detail, performing a comprehensive revival after it spent a decade in hibernation. Addressing its few remaining shortcomings would be easy and inexpensive, although leaving them untouched would be valid. It is a turnkey proposition that will provide a joyous and engaging motoring experience, but its reputation for frugal fuel consumption would make it an effective and comfortable daily driver. That is how it started life, and the winning bidder could take it full-circle by returning it to that role. That must be worth serious consideration.

Bid On This Auction

• History (6 bids)