Verdict
B
Coupe · Japan · 1996-2001
Honda Prelude (Mk5)
Honda Prelude (Mk5) — spec data and generation history.
Years
1996-2001
Generations
1
Segment
Coupe
The fifth and final generation of Honda's long-running coupe, sold in the UK from 1996 to 2001. BB-chassis car with the H22A 2.2 VTEC at the top of the range (185 bhp, 7400 rpm redline) and ATTS torque-vectoring front diff on the Type S. Disappeared in 2001 when Honda lost interest in the segment; a brand-new Prelude was announced for 2025-26 launch as a hybrid coupe. This page covers the historic Mk5; the new car gets its own entry when it lands.
Generations
Click any generation for the full deep dive
1996-2001
Mk5 (BB)
→
2.2 VTEC — 185 bhp, 0-62 in 7.5s.
Verdict
B
BHP
185
0–60
7.5 s
Top
142 mph
MPG
30.0 mpg
Used
£3,000-£10,000
- + H22A VTEC a properly characterful engine
- + ATTS torque-vectoring novel for 1996
- − Rust prone on UK cars
- − Most have been modified
Known issues by generation
Common faults reported on each generation — useful when shopping the used market.
1996-2001 · Mk5 (BB)
- Rear arch and sill rust on UK cars
- Distributor failure (cap and rotor)
- Power steering rack leaks
- ATTS diff hydraulic faults (Type S)
Rivals
Toyota Celica · Mazda MX-6 · Nissan 200SX · Vauxhall Calibra