Honda Prelude 1996-
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can be picked up quite cheaply now, plenty of kit so you get a lot for your money.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not too thirsty, average 35mpg no matter how it's driven. Honda service quite expensive and needed rather frequently every 6,000 miles (later versions every 9,000). Parts prices can make your eyes water! Insurance on the high side.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very good really - nice handling, excellent ride. Engine/exhaust note sounds good when extended in the best Honda tradition.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can be driven quite swiftly if you keep the revs up. Engine seems to really wake up over 4,000 rpm. Would buy a VTi next time though!

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Never let me down once in two years and always starts first time. Been a bit unlucky with number of replacement parts needed though.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Beautiful styling low and sleek although this seems to be lost on the younger generation who all seem to prefer tarted hatches. Not many about so has some rarity value. Must have alloys and rear spoiler for best visual effect.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Bit of a squeeze for four people but fine for two. Ride quality surprisingly good. Road noise was very high at first, improved with Goodyear NCT Eagles.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Central locking and an effective immobiliser. No alarm though.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Honda dealers very good: Knowledgeable, courteous and attentive - nothing is too much trouble. Bit pricey but you get what you pay for!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Clutch slave cylinder leaking (replaced under warranty), new rear wheel bearing (£279), air conditioning pipe leaking (fitted replacement £165), front anti-roll bar link arm broke (£123).

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes