1985 Honda Prelude S review from North America
"Easy on the eyes and the pocketbook"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
When I got the car, it was in bad shape. However, only paying $200 Canadian for it I can't complain.
The seats were torn, as well as the lower door panel carpeting.
It was missing a starter, the steering column cover, the ignition, a headlight, and a driving light.
The interior carpeting and upholstry were stained quite badly, but it was easily fixed.
Most of the interior and "bells and whistles" were taken off, as well as the mirrors.
After putting the car back together, installing a starter and ignition, and performing a thorough detailing of the interior, though, it's been an excellent car.
The only things I've had trouble with are finding parts (aftermarket), treating the rusted body (as the guy I bought the car off of didn't look after it), and keeping a starter in it without melting the actuator and shorting the entire system out.
I've installed two starters within the past six months, and now I'm waiting on another.
General comments?
All around, a good investment.
Lots of legroom, comfortable seats, a very accessible set of controls, and easy to sleep in.
I have found, though, that it is slightly lacking of headroom for taller people, and that my back seat is useless as no person I know could fit their feet in behind my seat (I have taken it out and customized the space slightly for stereo equiptment).
The stock speakers are decent quality, although it seems a difficult task to install aftermarket stereo equipment without tearing the whole car apart (This is my next big project).
This car is quick, light, and comfortable. It is decent on fuel, and seems to run forever with proper maintenance.
Recommended reviews
| Fun to drive, if you can keep it running |
|
| High initial cost. Holds value well. Built to last |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 CCVC Dual Carb Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 329000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 391900 kilometres |
| Previous car | Dodge Caravan |
| Date of Entry | 27th September, 2003 |