Third Generation Honda Prelude
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[edit] 1988
| Third generation | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Production | 1988–1991 |
| Engine | 2.0L 104 hp I4 2.0L 135 hp I4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual |
| Wheelbase | 101 in |
| Length | 175.6 in (1988-89) 177.6 in (1990-91) |
| Width | 67.3 in |
| Height | 51 in (1988-89) 49.2 in (1990-91) |
| Fuel capacity | 15.9 US gal. |
The third generation Prelude (released in 1987 in Japan) was similar to the second generation, however it gained four wheel steering on some models, as well as a 2.0-litre SOHC carburetted engine, an optional B20A DOHC EFI engine, or a slightly-larger B21A1 in 1990 and 1991.
The four-wheel steering system was a major piece of engineering. As of 2006, it is the only four-wheel steering system on a production car that is entirely mechanical in its design; that is, there is always a direct mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the rear wheels. This was praised for its feedback, especially in comparison with computer-controlled four-wheel-steering systems. The reduced-price two-wheel-steering version has been criticised for severe understeer.
The third generation Prelude also had some new external designs worth mentioning. The bonnet line was designed to be the lowest bonnet line of any front wheel drive car in the world, allowing for better forward visibility. The drag resistance was at of high-speed stability.
Another unique structural element of the third generation Prelude was the high-strength metal used in the six roof pillars. The roof pillars were so slim that all-around visibility was amazingly clear for 326°. Some call this Prelude the "baby NSX" due to some common design cues between the two cars, such as the excellent forward visibility via a low bonnet line, a front end resemblance, the suspension attributes (great handling with a smooth ride), and the design of the rear lights.
In 1987, Road & Track published a test summary that shows the 1988 Honda Prelude 2.0Si 4WS out slalomed every car of that year, including all Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Porsches. It went through the slalom at 65.5 mph, which was amazing in those days. For reference, the 1988 Corvette did the same at 64.9 mph.
The Prelude was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1987.
[edit] 1990
In 1990, the Honda Prelude was given a facelift from the previous third generation (1988-89) styling to a newer look. This facelift featured slightly smaller rear lights with clear indicators instead of the previous orange indicators. The top of the rear bumper was also changed to meet up with the smaller lights, and the bumper was also made into a rounder shape. The front bumper on the 1990 Prelude was also changed to feature clear indicators and park lamps and different styling. Many of the interior parts were revised including, the dash surround ad bezel, the door cards handle and window switches, the steering wheel shape contours were changed, etc. The five-speed manual transmission had a unique gear ratio that offered easy acceleration at high speeds.
Honda also released the Prelude SiStates in 1990. This model was only available in Japan. This car was on a limited production line and very few were built, it featured four-wheel steering, anti-lock braking system), limited slip differential, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear leaver, extra sound deadening on firewall and bonnet, rear windscreen wiper and washer, and many more features that were usually options. It also featured a unique B21A engine that was only produced for the SiStates.
 88-89 Front bumper |
 90-91 Front bumper |
 88-89 Rear bumper and tail lights |
 90-91 Rear bumper and tail lights |
