Honda Prelude 5th Gen
The final generation of Honda's sport coupe, the 5th Gen Prelude is sought after for its high-revving H22A4 VTEC engine and advanced Type SH handling. The market is maturing, with collectors paying significant premiums for unmodified, low-mileage cars.
Find one with Spotter →Honda Prelude 5th Gen sold for a median of $16,146 over the last 12 months, based on 12 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $10,741 and $19,188. 1,374 currently for sale.
The 5th and final generation Prelude, produced from 1996 to 2001, marked a return to the squared-off styling of earlier models. All US-market cars came with the 2.2-liter H22A4 engine, producing 195-200 hp thanks to Honda's VTEC system. The most notable model was the Type SH (Super Handling), which featured the innovative Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), a precursor to modern torque-vectoring differentials.
As the last of its kind, the 5th gen holds a special place for Honda enthusiasts. It represents the pinnacle of a nameplate that spanned over two decades, blending reliability with an engaging driving experience. Collectors especially seek out manual-transmission Type SH models for their unique technology and superior handling characteristics. Unmodified cars are becoming increasingly rare and command a significant premium.
The market for these Preludes has a very wide spread, reflecting the difference between worn-out examples and collector-grade survivors. While the average sale price sits around $14,000, pristine, low-mileage cars have sold for as much as $60,000. This shows a strong and growing appreciation for clean, original examples, placing them firmly in collectible territory.
Buying Tips
- Check for blue smoke from the exhaust, as the H22A4 engine is known for high oil consumption, especially at high mileage.
- The automatic transmission is a common failure point; look for hesitation or jerky shifts. The 5-speed manual is more desirable and durable.
- Inspect the rear quarter panels, wheel arches, and sunroof for rust, which is common in cars from wet or snowy climates.
- On Type SH models, ensure the ATTS light isn't illuminated on the dash. The system is complex and can be costly to diagnose and repair.
- Heavily modified cars are common but worth significantly less than stock examples. Prioritize originality and a documented service history.
Prices range from under $1,000 for projects to as high as $60,000 for pristine, low-mileage examples.
3,268 Honda Prelude 5th Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 1374 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Honda Prelude 5th Gen cost?
Over the last 12 months, Honda Prelude 5th Gen sold for a median of $16,146 across 12 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $10,741 and $19,188. There are 1,374 currently for sale.
How many Honda Prelude 5th Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 1,374 Honda Prelude 5th Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.