1983 Honda Prelude II (AB) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Honda Prelude II (AB) has a curb weight ranging between 975 kg to 1005 kg (about 2150 to 2215 lbs), which places it in the lightweight category for coupes of its era. Its maximum gross weight is 1490 kg (approximately 3285 lbs). The relatively light weight contributes positively to its nimble handling and responsive feel, allowing for agile cornering and improved fuel efficiency. The weight balance is optimized for a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, enhancing traction and control on various road conditions.

The Honda Prelude II (AB) offers a luggage capacity of 315 liters (about 11.1 cubic feet). For a sporty two-door coupe, this is a generous amount of space in the rear trunk, suitable for everyday errands, weekend trips, or carrying sports equipment. While not as large as a sedan or hatchback's trunk, its capacity is practical for its vehicle class, balancing sportiness with utility.

A standard garage typically measures around 2400 mm (7 feet 10 inches) wide and 4800 mm (15 feet 9 inches) deep. The Prelude II's exterior dimensions of 4295 mm in length (about 14 feet 1 inch) and 1690 mm in width (66.5 inches) make it well-suited to fit comfortably in a standard single-car garage with ample space for door opening and pedestrian access. The relatively low height of 1295 mm (51 inches) is not generally a limiting factor for garages.

Compared to the first generation Prelude, the Prelude II (AB) features a slightly increased length (4295 mm vs approximately 4205 mm) and width (1690 mm vs 1640 mm), while maintaining a low height (1295 mm). This translates to a roomier and more aerodynamic body while preserving the sporty coupe form. These dimensional increases improve interior comfort and stability at higher speeds, reflecting evolving design priorities and customer expectations.

When compared to similar sporty coupes from the 1980s, such as the Toyota Celica or Nissan Silvia of that era, the Prelude II (AB) is competitive in size and weight. With a length of 4295 mm and width of 1690 mm, it sits comfortably within the typical range for sports coupes, while its curb weight of around 975-1005 kg is relatively lightweight, enhancing performance and agility. Its balance of size and weight is a strong point, making it a favorable choice among sporty compact coupes of its time.

The Honda Prelude II (AB) is equipped with 13-inch rims paired with 185/70 R13 tires. This setup contributes to a balanced ride quality, offering a good compromise between sporty handling and comfort. The tire width of 185 mm provides adequate grip on various road surfaces, while the 70 aspect ratio ensures sufficient sidewall cushioning to absorb road imperfections, which was typical for coupes aiming for a sporty yet comfortable ride in the 1980s.

The Honda Prelude II (AB) has a maximum roof load capacity of 40 kg (approximately 88 lbs). This allows for the safe installation of light rooftop equipment such as a small roof box, bicycle rack, or ski carrier. It's important to respect this limit to avoid adversely affecting the vehicle's center of gravity, handling, and safety. This load capacity is typical for coupes without factory roof rails or reinforced roof structures.

The Honda Prelude II (AB), produced between 1983 and 1987, was exclusively offered as a sporty two-door coupe. This body style emphasized its role as a compact sports car designed for driving enthusiasts. Unlike some other vehicles that provide multiple body options, the Prelude II focused solely on delivering a sharp coupe profile that balanced style, performance, and practicality.

The Honda Prelude II (AB) introduced several advancements over the first generation, including a slightly larger and more aerodynamic body, improved chassis rigidity, and updated suspension tuning for better handling. The increase in dimensions allowed for enhanced interior space and comfort, while weight optimization helped maintain agility despite the larger size. Technological enhancements such as more efficient engines and improved safety features were also part of this generation's upgrades, cementing its reputation as a refined sporty coupe in the mid-1980s.