The 2001 Honda Prelude Type SH typically delivers about 210 horsepower in the U.S. market, with higher figures around 220–225 hp reported for certain Japanese (JDM) variants. The exact number can vary by market and testing method.
Power output by market
A regional breakdown helps explain the horsepower numbers seen for the Prelude Type SH in different markets.
- United States: 210 hp (157 kW) at about 7,000 rpm; torque around 159 lb-ft (215 Nm) at roughly 5,000 rpm.
- Japan (JDM Type SH): typically rated around 220–225 PS (approximately 217–221 hp), depending on the variant and measurement method.
- Other markets: generally aligned with US specs, around 200–210 hp depending on local emissions and tuning.
These figures reflect common specifications reported during the model’s production years and can vary with exhaust, intake, and ECU tuning.
Engine and performance context
The Type SH was equipped with Honda’s 2.2-liter H22A series DOHC VTEC engine. In the U.S.-market Type SH form, output is typically listed as 210 hp at about 7,000 rpm with roughly 159 lb-ft of torque at around 5,000 rpm. Japanese versions used a similar displacement but often carried higher claimed horsepower in PS, commonly cited around 220–225 PS, depending on emission and test cycles. Regardless of market, the Type SH is recognized for a more aggressive cam profile and higher rev limit compared with non-VTEC Prelude variants.
Engine code and specs
Engine: H22A4 (U.S./North American market) or H22A (Japanese market variants). Displacement: 2.2 L. Configuration: inline-4, DOHC, VTEC. Typical redline for Type SH variants sits in the vicinity of 7,000–7,500 rpm.
Performance notes
Horsepower alone doesn’t tell the full story. The Type SH also featured upgraded suspension, steering, and chassis tuning to emphasize handling, which shapes the driving experience beyond peak horsepower. Real-world acceleration depends on transmission, gearing, vehicle weight, and overall condition.
Summary
The 2001 Honda Prelude Type SH is commonly cited with about 210 horsepower in the U.S. market, with higher figures reported for some JDM variants around 220–225 horsepower. The Type SH’s appeal lies not only in peak horsepower but also in its VTEC-tuned engine, enhanced handling, and overall chassis dynamics that defined Honda’s sporty coupe for that era.


