Honda Prelude BA
The world's first production car with mechanical four-wheel steering.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.5 s
- Top speed
- 132 mph
- Est. value
- $6k–$25k
About the Honda Prelude BA
The third-generation Honda Prelude (BA) is a landmark of 1980s Japanese engineering, famously introducing the first mechanical four-wheel steering (4WS) system on a mass-production passenger car. This system uses a complex planetary gearset to turn the rear wheels in phase with the fronts at high speeds for stability, and in the opposite direction at low speeds for a tighter turning circle. The 2.0i-16 trim features the DOHC B20A engine, which was tilted backwards by 18 degrees to allow for an exceptionally low bonnet line and excellent visibility. Its combination of a low centre of gravity, double-wishbone suspension, and high-revving engine makes it a standout driver's car of the era.
Honda Prelude BA specs
The Honda Prelude BA produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 132 mph (212 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Prelude |
| Generation | BA |
| Trim | 2.0i-16 |
| Years | 1987–1992 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $19,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre 16-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,958 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 180 Nm (133 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.5 s |
| Top speed | 132 mph (212 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,095 kg (2,414 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 137 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Honda Prelude BA worth?
A typical Honda Prelude BA is estimated to be worth $6,000 – $25,000 (about £4,500 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $19,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Honda Prelude BA rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Prelude BA is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 12 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Honda Prelude BA fun facts
- The Prelude's mechanical 4WS system was so effective that it outperformed the contemporary Chevrolet Corvette in Road & Track's slalom test.
- The engine was tilted back 18 degrees specifically to achieve the car's signature low-profile hood, a design feat inspired by the Honda NSX development.
- In 1987, the Prelude was the first car in the world to offer a steering system where the rear wheels could turn up to 5.3 degrees.
