For those in the know, the Honda Prelude isn’t just another car; it’s a statement. And for the true aficionados, a Prelude with 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) is the holy grail. Having experienced life with and without 4WS in my Preludes, I can tell you, the difference is night and day. Going from the incredible handling of a 4WS model to a standard 2-Wheel Steering version felt like a serious downgrade. It was so impactful that when my beloved 4WS Prelude met an untimely end (thanks to a tree), I salvaged every valuable part, right down to the factory aluminum wheels. Now, with my current project Prelude, retrofitting the 4WS system has been a top priority, and let me tell you, it has revitalized the driving experience.
(Alt: Honda Prelude 4WS system components diagram showcasing the rear steering rack and associated parts for enhanced vehicle maneuverability.)
Many might scratch their heads and wonder what the big deal with 4WS is. Back in the day, this technology was ahead of its time. Honda pioneered this in the late 80s, offering a feature that drastically improved handling and maneuverability. The beauty of 4WS lies in its ability to steer the rear wheels in conjunction with the front wheels. At lower speeds, the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels, significantly reducing the turning radius. This makes parking and tight turns incredibly easier – a feature often misunderstood or underappreciated. At higher speeds, the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the front wheels, enhancing stability and improving lane changes and cornering.
(Alt: Honda Prelude 4WS cornering demonstration illustrating the rear wheel steering for improved handling and agility.)
So, if 4WS is so revolutionary, why didn’t it become mainstream? The primary reason boils down to cost and consumer perception. In the automotive market, especially in the US, the extra cost associated with advanced features can be a barrier. Consumers were hesitant to pay an additional $2000 for an option they didn’t fully grasp. Instead of recognizing the performance and handling benefits, many viewed it as an unnecessary complexity, maybe useful only for parallel parking – missing the bigger picture of enhanced driving dynamics.
(Alt: Honda Prelude interior showcasing the 4WS badge on the dashboard, highlighting the vehicle’s advanced four-wheel steering technology.)
However, the automotive industry’s elite recognized the value of 4WS early on. It’s not a coincidence that high-performance vehicles embraced similar technology. Think about it: why did legendary cars like twin-turbo AWD DSMs, Nissan 240SX (special editions), Nissan 300ZX (90-97), the iconic Skyline, and later Mitsubishi Lancer Evos incorporate 4WS or similar rear-steering systems? Because performance and handling matter. These manufacturers understood that 4WS wasn’t a gimmick; it was a genuine performance enhancer.
When you’re on the hunt for a Honda Prelude Parts Car, especially if you’re aiming for a performance build or simply want the best driving experience, seeking out a 4WS model is a smart move. Even if the 4WS system isn’t your immediate focus, the presence of 4WS often indicates a higher trim level, potentially meaning better components and features throughout the vehicle, which can be valuable for parts harvesting. Whether you’re looking for suspension components, interior trim, or even body panels, a 4WS Prelude parts car can be a goldmine.
(Alt: Honda Prelude parts car in a junkyard setting, emphasizing the availability of various components for restoration or repair projects.)
In conclusion, while the market may have initially underestimated 4WS, its benefits are undeniable, especially for driving enthusiasts. When searching for a Honda Prelude parts car, keep an eye out for the 4WS badge – it signifies more than just a steering system; it represents a piece of Honda’s innovative engineering and a superior driving experience waiting to be rediscovered or repurposed. Don’t dismiss 4WS as a “worthless factory option”; instead, recognize it for what it truly is: a valuable and often overlooked feature that sets the Honda Prelude apart.
