Â
2021 07 03 CCC Featured External Listing
1990 Honda Prelude SR 4WS 5-speed manual
When the third-generation Prelude appeared for the 1988 model year, the available four-wheel steering system was considered a grand breakthrough. While the Z32 Nissan 300ZX came with the feature a couple of years later, Honda was first to mass-market the concept. The interesting part is that both the previous generation Prelude (1983 to 1987) and the non-4WS 1988-1991 were also considered excellent handlers, about as good as could be had in a front-wheel drive machine.
CCC Vital Info –Â 1990 Honda Prelude SR 4WS 5-speed manual
Odometer – 194,000 km
Engine Info – 2.1L inline-four cylinder engine
Transmission Info – 5-speed manual
Exterior Colour – Red
Interior Colour – Black patterned cloth
Other features –Â Mostly original, A/C, Power sunroof, Cruise control, Stored indoors
Seller – Private
Model page
Note –
For CCC live auctions, this space also includes:
VIN;
a map link to seller location;
a link to a Carfax report; and
a lot number.
—
Join Our Mailing List
This car’s fuel-injected 2.1 litre engine – first released for this model year – checked in at 140 HP and has powered it through 194,000 km. While this may seem high to some, Honda aficionados are not fazed if the remainder of the car has been well cared for. (We believe those are Historic Vehicle plates on the GM truck inside the garage in one of the photos, perhaps a good omen.) Seller claims that this is the case and the ad seems to support this. Seller suggests that the car has always been stored inside. As most would expect from the 4WS feature, the SR was the top Prelude trim in Canada of the day, while in the US the Si was tops.
On the outside, the red paint – pledged by seller as original – retains a consistent shine. There is a rear spoiler in place and the clear corners were an add by Honda as a mid-generation update. This is about when the clear corner trend (read, rage) began and Honda was at its core. OEM wheels are mounted, take a close look at each side and you will note that the car has two right wheels and two left wheels, a prevalent set-up on Hondas of the day (and 30 years later, very commonly mounted on incorrect sides, not the case here). The exterior is wearing a partial bra – the headlight covers on the period pop-up lights are protected by it.
​
We would like generally to see more photos – we can’t believe a seller would allow his car to be so camera shy – but particularly of the interior. We can not speak to their condition but Prelude seats of the day were covered in patterned velour-type cloth and known for their sporty contours and firm comfort, some said rivalling Porsche’s hallowed sports seats. Adding to the sport theme is the three-spoke Honda steering wheel. All SRs were equipped with power sunroofs, this one also has power windows, air conditioning and cruise.
Find this 1990 Honda Prelude SR 4WS 5-speed manual in Bowmanville, Ontario on Kijiji for $12,000. Thanks to CCC member Abe for sharing it with us.