Honda Prelude BB6
The sophisticated swan song of Honda's high-tech front-wheel-drive coupé.
- Power
- 185 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.1 s
- Top speed
- 142 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$25k
About the Honda Prelude BB6
The fifth-generation Prelude (BB6) represents the final evolution of Honda's grand touring coupé, blending sharp handling with the legendary H22A VTEC engine. While the Japanese market received the high-output Type S, the European 2.2 VTi offered a balanced 185 PS (later 200 PS in 1999) and featured the innovative four-wheel steering (4WS) system on BB8 variants. Its styling returned to a more traditional, upright aesthetic compared to the futuristic fourth generation, featuring a driver-focused cabin and a return to a conventional dashboard layout. Today, it is highly regarded for its mechanical purity and the characteristic 'VTEC kick' that defines 1990s Honda performance.
Honda Prelude BB6 specs
The Honda Prelude BB6 produces 185 bhp (138 kW) and 206 Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of 142 mph (228 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Prelude |
| Generation | BB6 |
| Trim | 2.2 VTi |
| Years | 1996–2001 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $24,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.2-litre DOHC 16-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,157 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 185 bhp (138 kW) at 7,000 rpm |
| Torque | 206 Nm (152 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.1 s |
| Top speed | 142 mph (228 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,319 kg (2,908 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 140 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 BB6 worth?
A typical Honda Prelude BB6 is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $25,000 (about £3,700 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $24,000.
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 BB6 rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Prelude BB6 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 5 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 BB6 fun facts
- The Prelude was the first Honda to feature a moonroof as standard equipment, a tradition that continued through all five generations.
- The 5th-gen Prelude's 4WS system was electronically controlled, unlike the mechanical system found in the earlier 3rd-gen models.
- The name 'Prelude' was originally trademarked by Toyota, but they amicably allowed Honda to use it for their new coupé in 1978.
