1998 Honda Prelude

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The fifth-generation Honda Prelude, introduced in 1996 and produced until 2001, was known for its sleek design, advanced technology, and impressive performance. Loosely derived from its popular Accord sibling, the front-wheel-drive Prelude was the first Honda model to offer a power moonroof as standard equipment, which eventually became a Prelude trademark. 

The 1998 model featured a 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC engine, producing 195 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic with Honda's Sequential SportShift system. The Prelude's performance was enhanced by its double wishbone suspension, which provided excellent handling and a smooth ride. 

The interior of the ’98 Prelude was driver-focused, with a well-designed cockpit that included comfortable seats, a sporty steering wheel, and a comprehensive instrument panel. Safety features included dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a reinforced body structure. 

The Prelude sport coupe continues to gain popularity in the enthusiast community and the 1997-2001 version is listed on Hagerty’s 2025 Bull Market List. “To the uninitiated, the Honda Prelude was never more than a sexy Accord, but those who knew better appreciated it as a sharp handler that punched way above its price point. The latter view is, increasingly, holding sway today.”

Highlights

• Two-owner Honda Prelude is finished in its original Nordic Mist Metallic (B-83M) paint over black cloth interior

• Powered by a 2.2-liter DOHC, 16-valve inline-four engine rated at 195 horsepower

• Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC), which switches between two camshaft profiles: One for low-end response and the other for top-end power

• Four-speed automatic transmission

• Pioneer Audio Visual system was recently retrofitted, including rear view camera, Bluetooth, and Sirius XM

Features

• Maintenance on 22 December 2024 included:

  • Cylinder head replaced

  • Drive belts checked

  • Antifreeze/coolant flushed/changed

• Maintenance on 30 September 2024 included:

  • Brake fluid flushed/changed

  • Front brake rotors resurfaced

  • Front brake pads replaced

  • Air filter replaced

  • Induction system serviced

  • Oil and filter changed

  • Transmission serviced

  • Transmission fluid changed

  • Front brake rotors resurfaced

  • Drive belts checked

• Alloy wheels

• Cooper Ultra 205/60R16 tires

• Fog lights

• Dash instrumentation: 150 mph speedometer and odometer, 8,000 rpm tachometer, coolant temperature gauge, fuel level gauge

• Air conditioning

• Cruise control

• Power windows, door locks, and mirrors

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

• Dual front airbags

• Side-impact door beams

Known Imperfections

• According to CARFAX, a Damage Report Accident was communicated on 23 January 2013: "Minor damage ... Involving rear or side impact with another motor vehicle; Damage to left front; Damage to right front; Airbags did not deploy"

• Minor creases in driver’s seat

• Passenger side door handle is slightly loose

Included

• Spare tire

• Jack

• Maintenance records since new

Ownership History

According to the accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report, this two-owner 1998 Honda Prelude was originally purchased and titled in Stamford, Connecticut, on 2 July 1998. The owner relocated to St. Augustine, Florida, in May 2003. After 26 years of ownership, the Prelude was sold to the consignor in August 2024, also in St. Augustine. “It has been garaged its entire life and maintained by Coggin Honda of St. Augustine since 2003. It drives like the sport coupe it is: Tight, smooth handling, with excellent acceleration.”

Additional Notes

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida. Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida. For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.