1987 Honda Prelude III (BA) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Honda Prelude III (BA) ranges from 1050 kg to 1095 kg (2315 lbs to 2414 lbs), depending on the specific trim and equipment. Its maximum weight, also known as gross vehicle weight, is between 1560 kg and 1620 kg (3440 lbs to 3572 lbs). This weight range highlights its light construction, which contributes to efficient performance and handling.

The Prelube III offers a luggage capacity of 380 liters (approximately 13.4 cubic feet). This amount of space is quite reasonable for a compact coupe from the late 1980s and early 1990s, providing sufficient room for groceries, weekend bags, or small luggage. However, it's not as spacious as sedans or hatchbacks, so large cargo might require folding rear seats or alternative transport.

The Honda Prelude III originally comes with rims sized 5J x 13 and 5.5J x 14. Appropriate tire sizes to match these rims are 185/70 R13 and 195/60 R14. These tire and rim sizes help maintain the car's sporty yet balanced handling characteristics while fitting the wheel wells perfectly without modifications.

Yes, the Honda Prelude III fits comfortably within a standard residential garage. Given its length of 4460 mm (175.6 inches), width of 1695 mm (66.7 inches), and a low height of 1295 mm (51 inches), it is smaller than many modern vehicles and well-suited to typical garage spaces. Its coupe body style also means it's easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

Compared to its predecessor, the Honda Prelude III is longer, wider, and lower, giving it a more aggressive and aerodynamic stance. The length increased to 4460 mm from the Prelude II's approximate 4335 mm, width slightly widened to 1695 mm from about 1660 mm, and height decreased to 1295 mm versus the previous generation's taller profile. This dimensional evolution enhanced stability and sporty aesthetics.

The Prelude III’s dimensions positioned it competitively among other sporty coupes of the late 1980s, such as the Toyota Celica and Nissan Silvia. Its length of 4460 mm and width of 1695 mm placed it in a similar size class, although its notably low height of 1295 mm contributed to a sleeker silhouette. This made the Prelude stand out as a stylish yet functional compact coupe for enthusiasts.

The roof load capacity of the Honda Prelude III (BA) is rated at 75 kg (165 lbs). This means you can safely place roof-mounted accessories such as a small roof box or rack carrying sporting equipment, provided the total weight stays within this limit. Exceeding this limit could affect vehicle stability and safety, especially given the car’s low height and sporty handling traits.

With a curb weight ranging between 1050 and 1095 kg (2315 to 2414 lbs), the Honda Prelude III maintains a relatively lightweight profile which positively impacts its agility and fuel efficiency. The maximum weight of up to 1620 kg (3572 lbs) denotes the total allowable mass including passengers and cargo, which preserves handling precision and braking performance when fully loaded. This balance between weight and performance helped make the Prelude III a favorite among driving enthusiasts.

The Honda Prelude III (BA) introduced a more aerodynamic and modern coupe design with a lower and wider stance than its predecessors. Technologically, it featured improvements such as pop-up headlights, enhanced suspension geometry, and a more powerful engine lineup. These changes contributed to better handling, sportier aesthetics, and improved overall driving experience. It was well-regarded for combining style and performance in a compact package during its production period from 1986 to 1992.