1996 Honda Prelude 2.2i VTEC (4WS)
auctions.single.seller.popular
auctions.single.seller.view-count
auctions.single.seller.images
Highlights
- Fantastic condition
- Just 3 former keepers
- Non-modified example
- Rare & desirable specification
The Appeal
Originally derived from the Accord, the Prelude was Honda’s chosen champion for the sports coupe market of the ‘70s, designed to compete with the early Toyota Celica. Over the years, the Prelude would make notable advancements throughout the generations, becoming one of the most advanced vehicles offered by the Japanese giant. In fact, the Prelude often receives comments for its comparability to the legendary NSX of the time, in terms of its technological advancements.
Over the years, the Prelude has been a favourite of many Honda enthusiasts, initially flying somewhat under the radar, and lurking in the shadow of the Civic. As time has passed, however, this mighty coupe has aged like fine wine, and the demand for tidy examples of performance-oriented Preludes is skyrocketing by the day.
This 4th generation example sits near the very top of most desirable specification, thanks to its 2.2i VTEC powerplant, manual transmission, and 4-wheel-steering configuration. In addition to boasting one of the most ideal configurations throughout the entire Prelude lineup, this example benefits from the likes of just 3 former keepers, a mere 62K on the clock, great service history, and an all-around superb condition for the vehicle’s age.
If you’re in the market for a well-cared-for, high-specification Prelude for your collection, this is arguably one of the finer examples money can buy.
If you’re in the market for a well-cared-for, high-specification Prelude for your collection, this is arguably one of the finer examples money can buy.
The History and Paperwork
- Just 3 former keepers
- Only 62K on the clock
- Includes the original Honda booklet pack & wallet
- Good service history, including both main dealer, and independent servicing
- MOT until 1 December 2023
- V5C document is present, and ready to sign over
- Currently dry stored and protected from the winter elements
The Interior
- Features the original type A cloth interior
- Both front seats are in fantastic condition for their age, with only light signs of age towards the seams, and very minor wear to the driver’s seat bolster as pictured
- It deserves to be noted that the “memory” function on the driver’s seat is believed to be fully operational and works without fault
- The rear seats show far fewer signs of use, although slight marking can be found on the driver’s side
- Both the carpeting and headlining throughout the vehicle reflect clear signs of care, and have been beautifully preserved over the years
- Fully operational sliding sunroof, and electric windows
- Overall, the interior is presented in fantastic condition for its age, no doubt a result of its low mileage, and caring owners. There are, of course, incredibly minor signs of wear to note, such as slight flaking to the shift knob, but hardly anything of concern
The Exterior
- This gorgeous Prelude wears its R78-P Bordeaux Red Pearl paintwork superbly and shows arguably only the most minuscule of blemishes
- Accompanying the incredible paintwork, are the correct 15” alloy wheels. Much like the rest of the vehicle, the wheels are in superb condition, with only incredibly minor blemishes. The wheels come wrapped in pairs of Maxxis, and Accelera tyres with plenty of tread left to enjoy
- The vehicle has recently undergone light paintwork to the rear arches, to correct age-related bubbling. As the photos reflect, the paintwork has been carried out to a very high standard and there are now seemingly no obvious signs of age
- With no known modifications and a superb finish, this Prelude truly stands out from the crowd, and will no doubt continue to shine for years to come
The Mechanics
- H22A2 DOHC VTEC, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission
- Runs & drives brilliantly, with no known issues
- 4-wheel steering model
- MOT until 1 December 2023
- Fitted with two new rear brake pipes at 44,962 miles in 2009
- Fitted with new rear brake pads at 56,070 miles in 2015
- The vehicle also received a basic service, in December 2022
- This specification of Prelude truly is a fantastic example of ‘90s Honda’s engineering and is arguably the most advanced of its lineage. Paired with a manual gearbox, the H22A2 offers plenty of enjoyment across the rev range, particularly once the legendary VTEC kicks in. Then, you’re treated to a well-balanced chassis, fantastic steering feel, and as you would expect, Honda’s signature reliability.
Summary
Presented today is a rather rare opportunity to obtain a show-worthy example of one of Honda’s most desirable modern classics. As a result of its low mileage and owner count, this 4th generation Prelude now boasts a truly superb finish both inside and out, and is no doubt a standout example in today’s market. In addition to its very well preserved finish, this sporty coupe also showcases one of the most desirable specifications available throughout the entire Prelude lineup.
With interest and values for these iconic Hondas steadily on the rise, this is a fantastic chance to obtain one of the finer examples, be that as a collection piece, or a well-preserved weekend toy.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1996
- Make Honda
- Model Prelude
- Colour Bordeaux Red Pearl
- Odometer 62,061 Miles
- Engine size 2157
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Grimsby
- Location Lincolnshire
- Country United Kingdom
15 bids
from 10 bidders
- s7_affi•••• £7,100 14/02/23
- molliti•••• £7,000 14/02/23
- steve.d•••• £6,900 14/02/23
- mike-na•••• £6,800 14/02/23
- steve.d•••• £6,700 14/02/23
- mike-na•••• £6,500 14/02/23
- [email protected]•••• £6,400 14/02/23
- mike-na•••• £5,900 13/02/23
- peter-c•••• £5,700 13/02/23
- warrenn•••• £5,500 12/02/23
The Gallery
About Max Bids
The max bid process allows you to bid without any hassle.
Enter your maximum bid and we will then bid on your behalf to ensure you're the highest bidder - just enough to keep you in the lead and only up until your maximum.
Enter your maximum bid and we will then bid on your behalf to ensure you're the highest bidder - just enough to keep you in the lead and only up until your maximum.
Anti-sniping
C&C prevent auction snipers from bidding in the last seconds to win an auction.
Auctions are extended by 3-minutes if anyone bids within the last 2 minutes to allow other bidders to react and counter-bid.
Auto-bidding increments
- If your maximum bid is equal to or below the reserve price, your maximum bid will be applied in full if you are the highest bidder.
- If you are the highest bidder and place a maximum bid above the reserve, we will automatically put in the reserve as your first bid.
-
- Once the reserve has been met, Car & Classic will make sure you are the highest bidder using only the bidding increments stated below.
- We will keep you in the lead up until your maximum bid OR the increment closest to your maximum bid, providing your maximum bid is enough to cover the increment value.
| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
| £0 to £10,000 | £100.00 |
| £10,000 to £50,000 | £250.00 |
| £50,000 to £100,000 | £500.00 |
| £100,000+ | £1000.00 |
Automatically outbid immediately
When you place a max bid and are outbid immediately that means that another bidder has placed a max bid limit which is higher than yours.
You can bid again and we will use our automatic bid system to try and get you as the highest bidder.
Matching max bids
When there are two max bids of the same value, the one placed first remains the lead bidder.
What are pre-bids?
A pre-bid means you’re able to place a bid before the official start of the auction.
You will be notified whether or not you are the highest bidder when the auction starts.
Problem with your bid
Bids are contractually binding. To help protect you, we have some rules in place if we think it's been mistyped. Please check and amend what you have entered.