Japan vs Japan — 1987 vs 1981
| Prelude Si 4WS | Prelude XX | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 145 hp | 80 hp |
| Torque | 131 lb-ft | 99 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,958 cc | 1,751 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 103 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.7 sec | 18.3 sec |
| Weight | 2,575 lbs | 1,995 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,550 mm | 2,320 mm |
| Length | 4,460 mm | 4,090 mm |
| Original MSRP | $16,765 | $7,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $15,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 4/10 |
On balance, the 1987 Honda Prelude Si 4WS makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1981 Honda Prelude XX counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1987 Honda Prelude Si 4WS for outright capability, or the 1981 Honda Prelude XX for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Honda Prelude. The 1987 and 1981 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1987 Honda Prelude Si 4WS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 145 hp compared to 80 hp, a 65-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda Prelude uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve (B20A5) displacing 1,958 cc, while the Honda Prelude relies on a Inline-4 SOHC with 1,751 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1987 Honda Prelude Si 4WS edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 11.5 seconds. The Honda Prelude carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 580 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.