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Honda Prelude (1997-2001)

Fifth Generation
Production Total: 58,118
*****

Price New:
In 1997, the Honda Prelude had a starting price of around £20,000 in the UK. This price could vary depending on the specific model and optional features.
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Rivals
In 1997, the Honda Prelude faced competition from several notable rivals in the sports coupe market. Here are the approximate new prices of its main competitors in the UK at that time:

- **Toyota Celica GT-Four**: Around £25,000
- **Nissan 200SX**: Approximately £22,000
- **Mazda MX-6**: About £20,000
- **Ford Probe**: Around £18,000

These prices reflect the competitive landscape of the sports coupe market in the late 1990s, with each model offering unique features and performance characteristics.
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Recorded in UK 2024
As of 2025, there are approximately **1,200 Honda Prelude** vehicles licensed in the UK. Additionally, there are about **800 Honda Prelude** vehicles registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This includes various models from different production years.
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Honda Prelude (1997-2001)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Honda Prelude**—a sleek and spirited sports car that left its tire marks on the asphalt of automotive history! Let's talk about those quirks and hiccups that occasionally cropped up in the fifth-generation Preludes (1997–2001). Buckle up, my friend—we're diving into the garage!

1. **Automatic Transmission Woes:**
- So, you know how life sometimes throws a curveball? Well, the automatic gearboxes in the 2.2-liter engine Preludes decided to do just that. Complete failures weren't exactly rare. Imagine your transmission going on strike mid-commute—no fun! Replacing the unit could also dent your wallet.

2. **Recalls and Retrofits:**
- The Prelude had a couple of recalls during its dance on the automotive stage. If you're eyeing a used one, it's like checking the car's ID: "Hey, have you had your recalls done?" Make sure any necessary work has been carried out. Safety first, right?

3. **Steering Joints: Handle with Care:**
- Picture this: You're cruising down a winding road, wind in your hair, and suddenly—bam! Steering joints decide they've had enough and weaken. In the worst-case scenario, they could fail altogether, leading to a total loss of control. Not exactly the adrenaline rush you signed up for, huh?

4. **Ignition System Gremlins:**
- Sometimes, the Prelude's ignition system acted like a moody artist. It might decide to throw a tantrum and stall. Not cool, Ignition! Make sure everything's sparkly and well-behaved in that department.

5. **Four-Wheel Steering (VTi Models):**
- The range-topping VTi models flaunted four-wheel steering—a bit like the Prelude saying, "I can pirouette, darling!" But here's the catch: Make sure it's adjusted properly. We don't want any automotive ballet mishaps. Also, check those tire treads—are they wearing evenly?

6. **Kerbed Alloy Wheels and Sneaky Front Suspension Damage:**
- Those gorgeous alloy wheels? Yeah, they're prone to curbside kisses. If the previous owner was a bit reckless, the front suspension might have taken a hit too. So, give those wheels a little love and check for any hidden bruises.

Now, don't let these quirks scare you off! The Prelude still has that twinkle in its headlights—a blend of style, agility, and a dash of rebellious spirit. Just be a savvy car detective when you're out hunting for one. And hey, if you find a black-on-black leather 97 SH, it's like spotting a rare unicorn—go for it!
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

1. **First Generation (1978–1982):**
- The Prelude made its grand entrance in 1978, like a debutante at a ball. It was a two-door coupé, closely related to the Honda Accord. Picture it: sleek lines, a moonroof (because every cool car needs one), and a low, wide profile. The first-gen Prelude borrowed some bits from the Accord but had its own unique chassis. It was like the Accord's sporty cousin who knew how to dance.

2. **Second Generation (1983–1987):**
- The '80s called, and the Prelude answered. This generation brought more power, better handling, and a dash of futuristic flair. Pop-up headlights? Check. Fuel injection? Double-check. It was like the Prelude decided to put on neon leg warmers and hit the gym.

3. **Third Generation (1988–1991):**
- The '90s arrived, and the Prelude was ready. Sleeker, curvier, and with a hint of sophistication, this generation strutted its stuff. Four-wheel steering (yes, you read that right) made it feel like the Prelude was doing a tango on twisty roads.

4. **Fourth Generation (1992–1996):**
- By now, the Prelude had matured. It was like that confident friend who knows exactly what they want. This generation introduced the VTEC engine—a bit like the Prelude saying, "Hold my coffee; I'm about to impress." And impress it did!

5. **Fifth Generation (1997–2001):**
- The grand finale! The Prelude's swan song. Sleek lines, aggressive styling, and a touch of rebellion. This generation had automatic transmission woes (like a diva having a bad hair day) but also four-wheel steering (because why not pirouette through life?). It bowed out gracefully in 2001, leaving car enthusiasts humming its theme song.
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Variants
During those years (1997–2001), the Prelude strutted its stuff in various flavors, depending on where you were in the world. Buckle up, because we're about to take a tour of the Prelude showroom:

1. **North America:**
- Over in the land of maple syrup and bald eagles, Honda kept it relatively simple. They served up two main dishes:
- **Base Prelude:** The entry-level model. It was like the Prelude saying, "Hey, I'm here, and I'm ready to groove!"
- **Prelude Type SH:** Now, this one had a little extra spice. The "SH" stood for "Super Handling," and it came with Honda's ATTS (Active Torque Transfer System). Fancy, right? It was like the Prelude doing a quick cha-cha through corners.

2. **Japan:**
- Japan—the birthplace of anime, cherry blossoms, and vending machines that dispense everything from hot coffee to umbrellas. Here, the Prelude menu expanded:
- **Prelude Xi:** A dash of elegance, a sprinkle of tech. The Xi was all about sophistication.
- **Prelude Si:** A bit sportier. Imagine the Prelude wearing running shoes—ready for a jog through the winding roads.
- **Prelude SiR:** The "R" stands for "Racy." More power, sharper handling. It's like the Prelude decided to hit the gym and bulk up.
- **Prelude SiR S-spec:** Now we're talking serious business. This one was like the Prelude attending a black-tie event—classy and performance-oriented.
- **Prelude Type S:** The "S" here stands for "Special." It was the Prelude winking at you, saying, "Guess what? I've got a few tricks up my sleeve."

3. **Common Thread: Powertrains and Four-Wheel Steering:**
- These versions danced to slightly different tunes when it came to power. Some had up to **217 horsepower**—not too shabby, right? And guess what? Some of them even flaunted the vaunted **four-wheel steering system**. It's like the Prelude whispering, "I can pirouette, darling!"

So, whether you were cruising down Route 66 or drifting through Tokyo's neon-lit streets, the Prelude had a variant to match your rhythm.
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Trim Levels
Ah, let's take a stroll through the **Honda Prelude** showroom of the late '90s and early 2000s! Picture it: neon windbreakers, Tamagotchis, and the sweet hum of VTEC engines.

During those years (1997–2001), the Prelude came in a few different flavours, depending on where you were in the world. So, grab your metaphorical car keys, and let's explore:

1. **North America:**
- Over in the land of maple syrup and bald eagles (also known as North America), Honda kept it relatively straightforward. We had two main dishes:
- **Base Prelude:** This was the entry-level model—the one that said, "Hey, I'm here, and I'm ready to groove!" It had the essentials but kept things simple.
- **Prelude Type SH:** Now, this one had a little extra spice. The "SH" stood for "Super Handling," and it came with Honda's ATTS (Active Torque Transfer System). Fancy, right? It was like the Prelude doing a quick cha-cha through corners.

2. **Japan:**
- Ah, Japan—the birthplace of sushi, cherry blossoms, and vending machines that dispense everything from hot coffee to umbrellas. Here, the Prelude menu expanded even further:
- **Prelude Xi:** A dash of elegance, a sprinkle of tech. The Xi was all about sophistication.
- **Prelude Si:** A bit sportier. Imagine the Prelude wearing running shoes—ready for a jog through the winding roads.
- **Prelude SiR:** The "R" stands for "Racy." More power, sharper handling. It's like the Prelude decided to hit the gym and bulk up.
- **Prelude SiR S-spec:** Now we're talking serious business. This one was like the Prelude attending a black-tie event—classy and performance-oriented.

3. **Common Thread: Powertrains and Four-Wheel Steering:**
- These versions danced to slightly different tunes when it came to power. Some had up to **217 horsepower**—not too shabby, right? And guess what? Some of them even flaunted the vaunted **four-wheel steering system**. It's like the Prelude whispering, "I can pirouette, darling!"

Now, if you were cruising down Route 66 or drifting through Tokyo's neon-lit streets, the Prelude had a variant to match your rhythm. Whether you preferred the Si's smooth moves or the SiR's high notes, there was a Prelude for every enthusiast.
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Engines
During those years, the Prelude came with a variety of engines, each with its own personality and performance. So, grab your metaphorical wrench, and let's dive in:

1. **Fourth Generation (1991–1996):**
- In this era, the Prelude had a quartet of inline-4 engines:
- **Honda Prelude (133 HP) – 2.0 L (F20A):** The base model—a bit like the Prelude saying, "I'm here to groove, but not too loudly."
- **Honda Prelude S (133 HP) – 2.2 L (F22A):** A step up—like the Prelude lacing up its running shoes for a brisk jog.
- **Honda Prelude Si (160 HP) – 2.2 L (F22B):** Sportier vibes. Imagine the Prelude doing yoga—it's flexible and ready for action.
- **Honda Prelude VTEC (185 HP) – 2.2 L (H22A):** Ah, the VTEC magic! This one was like the Prelude sipping an espresso before hitting the track.
- **Honda Prelude VTi-R/SR-V (190 HP) – 2.2 L (H22A):** Even spicier. It's as if the Prelude put on its racing gloves.
- **Honda Prelude Si VTEC (200 HP) – 2.2 L (H22A):** The Si VTEC was the Prelude winking at you, saying, "Hold on tight!"
- **Honda Prelude SE/Si (160 HP) – 2.3 L (H23A):** A dash of extra displacement. It's like the Prelude decided to stretch its legs.

2. **Fifth Generation (1996–2001):**
- As the curtain fell on the Prelude's stage, it still had some tricks up its sleeve:
- **Honda Prelude (133 HP) – 2.0 L (F20A):** The base model, keeping things steady.
- **Honda Prelude Xi (135 HP) – 2.2 L:** A touch more power, like the Prelude adjusting its tie before a fancy dinner.
- **Honda Prelude Si (160 HP) – 2.2 L:** Still sporty, still ready to dance.
- **Honda Prelude VTi (185 HP) – 2.2 L:** The VTi—like the Prelude saying, "I've got this; watch me."
- **Honda Prelude SiR/VTi-R (200 HP) – 2.2 L:** The SiR—sleek, confident, and ready to carve corners.
- **Honda Prelude Type-S (220 HP) – 2.2 L:** The Type-S—like the Prelude donning a tuxedo for a high-society soirée.

And there you have it! A symphony of engines, each playing its part in the Prelude's automotive ballet. Whether you preferred the graceful pirouettes of the VTEC or the powerful crescendo of the Type-S, the Prelude had a tune for every enthusiast.
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Spares
1. **Cox Motor Parts:**
- If you're doing the Honda hustle and need genuine parts for your 1997–2000 Prelude, Cox Motor Parts is your backstage pass. They've got batteries, brakes, oils, fluids, and even wiper blades—all the essentials for keeping your Prelude grooving. Whether your plate reads R, S, T, V, W, or X, they've got you covered. And hey, if you can't find what you need, just give their team a shout. They're like the pit crew for your Prelude!
- [Cox Motor Parts - 1997-2000 Honda Prelude](https://www.coxmotorparts.co.uk/honda-shop/honda-prelude/1997-2000-prelude/)

2. **BreakerLink:**
- Picture this: Breaker yards scattered across the UK and Ireland, like secret chambers filled with car parts. Well, BreakerLink can be your magical key. They'll search high and low—over 100 breaker yards—to find those Honda Prelude parts you desire. It's like having a car part wizard on speed dial.
- [Find New & Used Honda Prelude Parts & Spares - BreakerLink](https://www.breakerlink.com/cars/honda/prelude/)

3. **247 Spares:**
- Imagine ordering Prelude parts from the comfort of your armchair. Well, 247 Spares makes it happen. Thousands of Prelude parts are just a few clicks away. So, kick back, sip your tea (or coffee—I won't judge), and let the parts come to you.
- [Honda Prelude Parts, Cheap Honda Prelude Spare Parts Online - 247Spares](https://www.247spares.co.uk/honda/prelude)

4. **Autodoc:**
- Autodoc's online shop is like a virtual garage. They've got an assortment of first-class and budget-friendly parts for your Honda Prelude. All it takes is a few minutes and some basic knowledge of your car model. Think of it as car part matchmaking. Swipe right for that perfect spark plug!
- [Car parts HONDA PRELUDE - Autodoc](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/honda/prelude)

5. **Autopartspro:**
- Autopartspro—the name says it all. They're the No. 1 spare parts store for Honda Prelude in the UK. Best prices, fast shipping—it's like they're sprinting to get those parts to you.
- [HONDA PRELUDE parts - Car Parts Online Store UK](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/honda-prelude-carparts)
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Specialists NI
Honda mechanic specialists in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly & Taggart Honda Service Centre Ballymena
o Address: 120-122 Antrim Road, Ballymena BT42 2HD
o Phone: 028 2544 0633
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Services: Maintenance and repair, engine and transmission rebuilds, pre-purchase inspections, and full restorations.
3. Ballymena Honda
o Address: Unit 6 Pennybridge Industrial Estate, Ballymena BT42 3HB
o Phone: 028 2565 5533
o Services: New and used motorcycle sales, fully equipped workshop with factory-trained Honda technicians and the latest diagnostic equipment.

Honda mechanic specialists in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Comiskey Engineering Works
o Address: Mahon Industrial Area, Mahon Road, Craigavon BT62 3EH
o Phone: 028 3833 2040
o Services: Engine reconditioning and repair.
2. Kelly Motor Works
o Address: 27 Garland Avenue, Lurgan, Craigavon BT66 6JH
o Phone: 028 3832 7753
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance.

Honda specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. S.A Automotive
o Address: Crossgar, Down, Northern Ireland
o Phone: 07754 038342
o Services: Full or part engine rebuilds, gearbox refurbishment, welding, MOT preparation, and performance upgrades.
2. The Dent Man NI
o Address: Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 9147 9999
o Services: Dent removal and car body repairs.

Honda mechanic specialists in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group Honda
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, and seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. McElroy Motors
o Address: 1-3 Mill Street, Irvinestown, Enniskillen BT94 1GR
o Phone: 028 6862 1655
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance, MOT preparation, and diagnostics.

Here are some Honda mechanic specialists in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Services: Car body repairs, accident repair centre.
2. ClickMechanic
o Services: Offers a network of vetted and qualified mechanics who can provide Honda repairs and servicing at your home or office.

Here are some Honda mechanic specialists in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Honda Dungannon
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Services: Comprehensive Honda servicing, accident aftercare, tyre servicing, and seasonal deals on specific services like oil changes, belt replacements, and brake upgrades.
2. Fannin’s, Clogher
o Address: 73-75 Main Street, Clogher BT76 0AA
o Phone: 028 8554 8287
o Services: General car repairs and maintenance, MOT preparation, diagnostics, and breakdown recovery
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Racing
The **Prelude**, with its sporty demeanour and moonroof flair, was like the automotive equivalent of a jazzed-up tango partner. But how did it fare in the motorsport arena? Let's break it down:

1. **Performance Figures**:
- The fifth-generation **Prelude** (1997–2001) had some impressive specs. One version, the **Type S**, was a high-performance model available exclusively in Japan. Under its hood hummed the 2.2-liter H22A engine, complete with VTEC wizardry. This powerhouse churned out **220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp)** at a rev-happy **7,200 rpm**, with a torque twist of **163 lbf·ft (221 N·m)** at **6,500 rpm**¹.
- But wait, there's more! The **Type SH** (available outside Japan) boasted a sophisticated 16-valve DOHC VTEC engine that flexed its muscles to the tune of **190 horsepower**. Not too shabby for a naturally aspirated 2.2 liters, right? This Prelude could sprint from **0 to 60 mph in just 6.7 seconds** and hit a top speed of a jaw-dropping **140 mph**².

2. **Handling and Grip**:
- Like a gymnast on a balance beam, the **Prelude** combined a smooth ride with razor-sharp handling. It hugged corners like a koala clings to a eucalyptus tree. In its most potent form, it packed **197 bhp** and could launch from a standstill to **60 mph in 7.5 seconds**³.

3. **JDM Icon**:
- The 1997–2001 **Prelude** became a sought-after gem in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). Enthusiasts admired its sleek design, innovative features, and spirited performance. It was like the cool kid at the automotive party, sipping its VTEC-infused energy drink while winking at the competition⁴.

So, did it conquer racetracks like a seasoned pro? Well, it wasn't exactly a podium regular in major motorsport events, but it certainly held its own in spirited drives and amateur racing circuits. Think of it as the weekend warrior—eager, capable, and always up for a twisty road.

Ah, the **Honda Prelude**—a sleek and spirited coupe that danced its way through the late '90s and early 2000s! Now, let's slip into our racing suits and explore whether this graceful performer snagged any checkered flags on the track.

**Did the 1997–2001 Honda Prelude**—with its VTEC whispers and aerodynamic dreams—take home trophies? Well, let's rev up the engine of knowledge:

1. **High-Performance Variants**:
- In the Japanese market, the **Prelude** had a couple of spicy versions: the **SiR S-Spec** and the **Type S**. These weren't your average Sunday cruisers; they were the adrenaline-infused cousins. The **SiR S-Spec** and **Type S** both flexed their muscles to the tune of **217 horsepower**. Imagine them at the starting line, revving their engines like caffeinated cheetahs.
- The **SiR S-Spec** could sprint from **0 to 60 mph in a zippy 6.7 seconds**, leaving tire marks like secret messages on the asphalt. And when it stretched its legs, it flirted with a top speed of **151 mph**—not bad for a car that didn't need a cape to fly².

2. **Track Battles**:
- Now, did they conquer racetracks like seasoned pros? Well, here's the thing: While the **Prelude** wasn't a podium regular in major motorsport events, it certainly had its moments. Picture it as the underdog—scrappy, determined, and occasionally surprising everyone.
- On twisty backroads and amateur racing circuits, the **Prelude** danced with enthusiasm. It wasn't about trophies; it was about the joy of driving, the harmony of tires gripping asphalt, and the symphony of VTEC kicking in.

3. **Hot Hatchback Territory**:
- The **SiR S-Spec** and **Type S** were like hot hatchbacks in a time capsule. They blurred the line between practicality and performance. While they didn't dominate official races, they definitely turned heads at stoplights and left other drivers wondering, "What just happened?"
- Imagine a **Prelude** pulling away from the pack, its exhaust note echoing through the trees. It wasn't about winning; it was about the thrill of acceleration—the heartbeat of a car in love with the road.

So, did the **Prelude** wear victory laurels? Not exactly. But it wore something better: the grin of a driver who knew that racing wasn't just about trophies; it was about the journey, the curves, and the memories etched into every gearshift.

And there you have it—a glimpse into the **Prelude's** racing soul. If you ever spot one on the road, give it a nod—it might just wink back.

Rivals
The **Honda Prelude** wasn't just a lone wolf—it had some spirited rivals on the racetrack and the boulevard. Let's peek under the hood and see who dared to challenge this sleek coupe:

1. **Toyota Celica**: Picture a friendly rivalry—like two talented dancers competing for the spotlight. The **Toyota Celica** was the Prelude's dance partner. Both hailed from Japan, both flaunted sporty lines, and both aimed to woo enthusiasts. The Celica had its own fan base, and the battle between these two was like a tango of horsepower and handling.

2. **Mitsubishi Eclipse**: Ah, the **Eclipse**—a name that conjures images of neon lights, late-night street races, and Vin Diesel's furrowed brow. The Eclipse was another front-wheel-drive contender, and it brought turbocharged power to the party. It was like the wild cousin who showed up with a nitrous oxide kit and a mischievous grin.

3. **Ford Cougar**: The **Cougar** (not to be confused with the Mercury Cougar) strutted onto the scene with European flair. It was part of Ford's "New Edge" design era, which meant sharp angles, bold lines, and a dash of sophistication. While not as common as the others, the Cougar had its own following, sipping espresso in a Parisian café while discussing torque curves.

4. **Mazda MX-6**: The **MX-6** was like the mysterious artist in the group—a bit underrated but with a soulful vibe. Mazda infused it with a dose of zoom-zoom spirit, and it held its own against the Prelude. Think of it as the indie band playing in a dimly lit basement club, captivating a select audience.

5. **Peugeot 406 Coupe**: Now, here's the French entry—the **Peugeot 406 Coupe**. It was elegant, sophisticated, and très chic. While not as widely known, it whispered sweet nothings about handling finesse and continental charm. Imagine it sipping Bordeaux wine and discussing camber angles with the Prelude. 🇫🇷

6. **Mitsubishi FTO**: Surprise! The **FTO** sneaked in like a ninja. It was surprisingly affordable and had a cult following. With its aggressive styling and a dash of JDM magic, the FTO was the underdog that occasionally surprised everyone by pulling off a perfect drift.
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Racing
The Honda Prelude, particularly the 1997-2001 models, did see some action in motorsport, although it wasn't as prominent as some other Honda models like the NSX or Civic. Here are a few highlights:

1. **Touring Car Championships**: The Prelude participated in various touring car championships, including the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and the Japanese Touring Car Championship (JTCC). It was known for its handling and reliability, making it a competitive choice in these series.
2. **Club Racing and Amateur Events**: The Prelude was also popular in club racing and amateur motorsport events. Its balance of performance and affordability made it a favourite among enthusiasts looking to compete on a budget.

While the Prelude may not have had the same level of racing success as some of its siblings, it still made a mark in the motorsport world and remains a beloved model among Honda fans.
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Valuation
The value of a 1997-2001 Honda Prelude can vary based on its condition, mileage, and specific model. Generally, you can expect the following price ranges in the UK:

- **Fair Condition**: Around £1,000 to £2,000
- **Good Condition**: Approximately £2,000 to £3,500
- **Excellent Condition**: About £3,500 to £5,000

These values reflect the car's popularity and performance among enthusiasts. If you're considering purchasing one, it's essential to have it thoroughly inspected to ensure you're getting a good deal in United Kingdom.
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