2026 Honda Prelude in Johnson City, TN - $43,850

Precision. Sophistication. Undeniable power. Honda Prelude. For years I watched this coupe from afar -- its poise, grace and performance -- all wrapped up in an intelligent package that exuded class and elegance. Those that have likewise been seduced by its siren's song, best hurry. The 2001 model year is the last for this two-door charmer. The days of the Prelude became numbered with the debut of the awesome Accord V6 coupe in 1999.

The goodness of this car will be hopelessly lost on those that view driving as just going from point A to point B. This car was built for those that enjoy the thrill of speed, and mountainous ribbons of twisty, two lane highway. Built in Japan and imported into the United States by Honda, the Prelude is a quiet testimony that consumers do not have to spend in the high five digits to get deep into seat-of-the- pants driving fun.

Available in base and lethal SH performance models, the Prelude exhibits a Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde personality. Powered by a 2.2L multi-valve VTEC four-cylinder engine, consumers may choose between the standard five-speed manual or a wonderfully devilish four-speed automatic equipped with Honda's Sequential SportShift. This fun device makes the smooth shifting automatic transmission work like a manual gearbox for optimum power.

The powerplant was born to be thrashed -- raucous and free revving. It is willing to go quickly right up to redline to deliver the goods. This Honda handles with the ease and grace of a professional ballerina. An independent double wishbone suspension is complemented with coil springs, front/rear stabilizer bars and gas pressurized shocks. The rear suspension adds trailing arms for stability and control.

The Type SH features Honda's Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS) that decreases vehicle understeer while cornering by regulating power to the front wheels during turns to supply virtually neutral handling characteristics. Beefy Bridgestone Potenza RE92 P205/50R16 tires work in concert with the suspension hardware to keep the coupe firmly glued to the pavement, no matter what happens.

Inside, the cockpit is chock full of Honda goodness. The interior is ergonomically wonderful, with excellent displays and controls coupled with an world class outward view for the driver. While the front passenger will find this coupe equally as comfortable, the rear seat is better left for cargo. A single piece fold-down rear seat back improves the cargo carrying ability of this Honda by providing a flat surface.

Ratings & specifications

The VTEC 2.2L four-cylinder engine makes 195-200 hp at 6,600-7,000 rpm and 156 lb./ft of torque at 5,250 rpm. EPA fuel economy is 22 city/27 highway for the five-speed manual and 21 city/26 highway for the four-speed automatic using premium unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are easy to find but not clearly marked.

Standard safety/security features for the Prelude include dual front airbags, immobilizer theft deterrent system, remote keyless entry and four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock. Traction control is not available.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) price begins at $23,600 for the base coupe and $26,100 for the SH model. Destination charge adds $440. As might be guessed, this is one rare car, even for a Honda, so enlist a dealer's assistance to get one. There are no rebates on this coupe.

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