1988 Honda Prelude Reviews, Pricing & Specs

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$14,569 to $18,344

Original MSRP

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expert review

4.4

avg user rating

(28 reviews)
1988 Honda Prelude Preview summaryImage

The 1988 Honda Prelude ushered in the third generation of Honda's popular sporty coupe. The Prelude retained its appearance for the most part, growing just a little longer and wider. All Preludes got a bigger engine, and Honda introduced a new four-wheel-steering trim, which was designed to improve handling, especially around corners.

The 1988 Honda Prelude came in three trims: the base S model, the midrange Si, and the 4WS. The S had a 2.0-liter, 104 horsepower engine. The Si and the 4WS both came with a 2.0-liter, 135-horsepower engine, which was Honda's most powerful engine to date. The Si and 4WS were both well-equipped with things like power windows. All Preludes had a sunroof. Fuel economy was about 23/27.

The 1988 Honda Prelude has many fans who still drive them today. They say the car is a blast to drive, handling corners at high speeds with ease. They also say they are extremely reliable, and in the event there is a problem, they are very easy to fix. There are some complaints about the tiny backseat, and while some drivers find the four-wheel-steering interesting, most find it unnecessary.

CarGurus Editorial Team
Published Aug 9, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
While we highlight specific author bylines where possible, sometimes our content results from the combined efforts of several members of the CarGurus editorial team. As with all our editorial content, you can expect high levels of automotive insight and expertise delivered in a style that is approachable and free from jargon.

User reviews for 1988 Honda Prelude

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User rating:
by Harry K
Aug 25, 2013
The styling is positively the best. I like the wedge look. It is not just looks; it has a road sticky attitude. The fuel mileage is not bad, just under 30 MPG. Although built in 1988, I truly say that this is the best road car that I have ever owned.Aug 25, 2013
by Arthur S
May 17, 2013
Moteur très linéaire mais qui monte facilement dans les tours ! Coupleux et agréable à bas régime. Tenue de route exceptionnelle, notamment dans les virages serrés, et maniabilité exemplaire grâce au système 4WS. Equipement de série supérieur aux autres voitures de son époque (toit ouvrant, vitres, rétroviseurs et antenne rétractable électriques)May 17, 2013
by Hunter B
Jan 03, 2013
You never forget your first car. I bought it in January 2003, and managed to get it smashed by a Ford Explorer 3 months later. But I managed to drive about 4000 miles in that time, and had a great deal of fun with the car. It was nimble and lightweight, and while not a powerhouse, it had more than enough engine for its size. Managed to edge it past the 120 mph mark more than once. It had a solid feel that belied its weight and age. It actually rattled and squeaked less than the 1997 Prelude that replaced it. When I bought it, I didn't realize it needed new CV boots, and eventually managed to wreck both front axles. $600 to fix everything, then two weeks later I wrecked the car. It actually still ran, but there was a better deal to total the car and replace it than spend almost as much on bodywork. It was a shame to lose it so early, though. I have fond, albeit brief memories of that little car.Jan 03, 2013

1988 Honda Prelude Pricing

Original MSRP
$14,569 to $18,344
Price range
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Honda Prelude price trends

Trims & specs

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Convenience Features

Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Convenience Features

Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

Audio System

Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio

Convenience Features

Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors: power

Roof

Moonroof: power

Seats

Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth

Tires and Rims

Wheel type: aluminum alloy

Windows

Front wipers: intermittent

See all trims (3)

Other years

1988 Honda Prelude For Sale