Honda Prelude Type-R. ?.

This photograph of a current generation Honda Prelude, allegedly a model Type-R has been available on the internet for some time. We at TOV-A occasionally get asked if we know whether such a model in fact exists as part of Honda's official line-up.

In the big debate in the Honda Performance List some time ago, it was revealed by one contributor that the Prelude Type-R was actually a one off, one or two models modified by a tuning shop in Japan and marketed as an aftermarket Prelude Type-R. Others on that list were also quick to point out that the photograph itself has been digitally doctored. The 'Type-R' badge on the front is quite clearly patched on, so is the Prelude Type-R license plate.

In TOV-A's opinion, the Prelude Type-R does not officially exist. This is meant to say that there is no Prelude Type-R anywhere in Honda's official line-up, whether in Japan or other parts of Asia. TOV-A's reference for the current Honda models line-up is the Honda of Japan's official homepage, http://www.honda.co.jp, and the listed models for the current generation Prelude does not include a Type-R. Note that there is however a Prelude Type-S, a super-souped up Prelude with a 220ps H22A and using the new ATTS transmission.

Temple of VTEC - Asia. May 18 1998