The 2nd generation Prelude took steps in performance that would set it on the path to the reputation it enjoyed by the end of the 20th century. A 1.8 liter, dual carb 4-cylinder cracked the triple digits with 105 horsepower. Sure, it’s not an asphalt-melting Dodge Hellcat, but let’s put it another way: the 2nd Gen represented a respectable 15% increase in horsepower over the 1st generation, and that is not where the improvements ended. Based on an all-new platform, other changes include double-wishbone suspension and upgraded rear struts for improved handling and styling that kept the swept-back, long-hood look but added pop-up headlights.
Latecomers to the party also had the option of purchasing the Prelude 2.0 in 1986 and 1987, which upped displacement to 2.0 liters. The fuel-injected 2.0 included 4-valves per cylinder and produced 158 horsepower. Considering the 1986 Z28 put out 193 horsepower with a V8 helps put the Prelude into perspective as a true competitor coming into its own.
Collectors and modders have discovered the 2nd generation Prelude. At an average price of $14,000, on the aftermarket, with a stunningly high sale price of $79,000, there is a significant increase over the cost of owning a first generation, but there is still time to jump in before they become out of reach. Its design is firmly 1980s, and lacks the distinctive design cues of the 1st generation — but not in a good way. Relatively high cost and outperformed by later generations, the 2nd gen lands last on our list of Prelude ranked worst to best.
[Featured image by PeteCaz via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY 4.0 DEED]
