The second generation Prelude is my absolute favorite, with many interesting details that set it apart from the models the preceded and followed it. This particular example is a shockingly rust-free Si trim model with only 61,103 miles on the clock. The low use shows throughout, and if it were a 5-speed, I might be tempted to buy it myself. Find the Prelude here on Autotrader.com, listed by an auto broker for $8,900.
One of the first features I always notice about this generation of Prelude are the cross-lace alloy wheels. Honda has a tendency to rely on the blade-style or five-star design, so to see them adopt the more European-style alloy was unusual. Another European styling influence is the rear spoiler, which is more of a “duckbill” style in that it appears to morph directly from the trunk lid as opposed to sitting on top of it. Almost every BMW and VW in the 1980s has a foam spoiler in this design. And finally, the taillights with the large center garnish and black stripe running through them is more BMW M5 than anything else.
I also love the interior of the second gens, namely for the awesome steering wheel. This just screams “enthusiastic driving” to me, what with its three-spoke design and embossed “Prelude” lettering. It’s also worth noting the interior appears mint, with plastics and other trim areas still appearing quite lustrous in their finish. The automatic is a major let-down but it also plays a big role (potentially) as to why this Prelude didn’t end up abused and modified like so many others before and after it. The radio head unit remains stock with the very 80s and completely OEM equalizer underneath.
The seats in Hondas of this era were ridiculously well bolstered, even in base models. But the Si trim of anything got the top-flight sport buckets like you see here. The second generation Preludes marked the introduction of Honda’s B20A-series engine, which provided decent performance out of the box, helped partially by the car’s low curb weight. Though expensive for a used car project, this Prelude is one of the nicest we’ve seen in recent memory, and its condition likely indicates it’s pretty far from project status. Which generation Prelude is your favorite?
