Used 1997 Honda Prelude Consumer Reviews
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Good Car
My Honda Prelude has been a very good car. I have had no serious problems and it is very fun to drive. I like the quickness of this car.
No Honda compares
This is my 3rd Prelude and the best by far. My 80 was a bit roomier and a classic, my 89 4WS was quick and had superior turning radius, my 97 is almost a combination of both. I could stand for more leg room for my 5'11" frame. The sport shift is conveinient and works great, the auto position blows for pick up. Gas milage is great. I still get compliments on its looks even after having it for 3 years. Sux that Honda killed the model, it was the only cool model they had going until the S2000. i'll never buy another honda, they look bland.
A great car even after 5 years
I thought this was a great looking car from the first I saw a preview in one of the auto magazines. Had to wait 3 months to try one at the Honda dealer around Thanksgiving 1996. Bought the 5th one the dealer had in stock in January 1997. Have had zero problems with this car. Mine is somewhat unique inn that they stopped making the Eucalyptus green with the 2 tone interior after the first year and went to the generic "Ford Explorer" forest green with the black interior. My 2 tone tan/black is cooler and classier. The car is great under all conditions except snow.
sportshift transmission problems
Reliability has been very good up until the last 6 months. Suddenly the transmission starts shifting hard. I took it into the dealership and the only option they offer is transmission replacement ($4K). Two AAMCOs have failed to identify the problem. $4K is a pretty high repair bill for a 1997 car with 54K miles.
Nothing comes close
I bought my SH brand new and basically drove the wheels off of it. It is by far, the best handling vehicle I have ever driven. It was more than enough power and the engine is a true gem. The drive train is refined and a step above anything in the Honda lineup even till this day. The Acura TSX/RSX comes close but I still prefer the Prelude overall. I sold it with over 300K and have regretted it ever since. I am currently looking for another one! If you have a chance to pick one up..just do it.