In 1998, horsepower depended on trim: the base Prelude was about 160 hp, while the sportier Type SH delivered roughly 190 hp. Exact figures vary by market and measurement standard.
US-spec horsepower and trims
In the United States, the 1998 Prelude was offered primarily in two trims. The base 2.2-liter engine produced around 160 horsepower, while the Type SH variant delivered about 190 horsepower, thanks to VTEC tuning and other performance tweaks.
- Base: approximately 160 horsepower (SAE net)
- Type SH: approximately 190 horsepower (SAE net)
These figures reflect SAE net horsepower as commonly cited in U.S. sources for that era.
Global variations and market context
Beyond the U.S., some markets offered variations that could push horsepower higher, depending on emissions equipment and tuning. In Japan and other regions, certain 2.2-liter Prelude variants were reported in roughly 190–210 horsepower ranges, depending on the specific model and version.
- Japan/other markets: roughly 190–210 horsepower in certain variants
Note: horsepower numbers are approximate and based on commonly cited specs for 1998 models; individual cars may differ slightly due to wear, modifications, and measurement method.
Summary
The 1998 Honda Prelude’s horsepower varied by trim and market: base around 160 hp and the sport-oriented Type SH around 190 hp, with some international variants reaching into the 190–210 hp range. Always verify the exact spec for a given car based on market and trim.