Right now I've got a 92 Lexus SC400 (I'm not going to go into how I got it here). It's nice and very clean but it's not far from 180k and stuff is starting to break. I wasn't terribly concerned until I realized that a few things were about to crap out on me (Brake pads, shocks, struts, Interior) and it would not be terribly long before even more expensive parts would be gone too (Timing belt, Water Pump). Before the timing belt goes, I'm looking at about a grand just to fix the suspension and the possibly brakes (unless I need new brakes themselves, then it's probably 500 more), and once other stuff starts going wrong, it's bound to cost a bunch more (lexus dealers are never cheap
). I'm 18, I'm not rich by any stretch of the word, and I'd have to start saving up now to pay for the 180k service where the timiung belt is fixed. It's 1200 bones.
So you see, I may be in need of a cheaper car to maintain. So far, I've researched the prelude, and it looks like it could be a good match for me. Fast, Very nice handling (the kind that might compete more than my 3600 lb car with a Celica GTS), not bad power potential (nothing like a 2jz swap, but do you have 10 grand just sitting somewhere?), and the key...it looks cheaper to keep going. right now I coud pick up a 92-94 prelude (my favorite generation, not much cleaner than a 4th gen black on black with some nice rims) with almost half the miles I have on my car for around 6-7 grand.
So, my questions for you guys are, exactly how reliable are these cars (i.e., how many miles before major parts break), and how expensive are they to fix? Is 7 grand for a 94 with 93k a good deal?
And the most asked question, how expensive would it be to get a prelude to go just as fast or a bit faster than an SC400 (3556 lbs, 250 hp/260 lb-ft, 1/4 15.6)?
at 100k, the stock clutch will start to and or completely go, do regular maintenance, and she'll run forever... I had my last 4th gen for 210k, ran like a champ till I got rid of it.
As for your speed concern, a stock Vtec model will get you your 'bit faster' than ur car. They run low 15's, high 14's stock. Make the right decision, buy a Lude
Many of the mechanical systems on a 4th gen Prelude are functionally identical to Accords of the same years, which is typically considered near the top of the pack in terms of reliability.
While parts for Hondas are typically more expensive than say, a GMC truck, enough cars were produced that finding used replacement parts is a piece of cake. Other than typical wear items (brake pads, tires, oil changes, etc), the most typical repair is changing the timing belt and water pump. If you do a search on this topic you will find TONS of information.
I would not get that one. The S model only has 135 hp and is gutless (sorry all you S owners). I would expect to pay around $4500-5000 for an S. If you want a VTEC you are looking at around $7000 to $9000 depending. You also will be looking for a long time and/or put shipping the car. They are like diamonds in the rough. I would suggest getting an Si with an iffy engine and doing a JDM H22A swap into it and go very fast. The full swap will cost you around $3500 to do right (assuming you do the install yourself). The H22A is, IMHO, one of the best engines to ever grace the prelude line and the JDM gets you 0.6 point os CR increase and a few more ponies
Originally posted by yield Only major thing I've done to my 93 SI is the clutch. Small things like brake pads and the radiator but that was a simple repair. Overall I've been very impressed with its reliability.
One BIG thing on them though - make sure that car has had the timing belt changed!!! It should have been done at 90k so make sure they did it. If it goes on you then you usually bend most of your valves and Boom, game over.
If you get a vtec it will be mid to low 15's stock, SI is a little higher. If it is $7k for a vtec that's pretty standard, could probably get a little less. SI's usually go for 5500-6500 where I'm at.
i believe it all really depends on what kind of car u are looking for. do u want something quick that will last a long time and is reliable? or do u want somehting that is fast, easy to mod for power, and can run 13's in no time? if all you are wanting is a decently quick car that looks good and will give you minimal probs, the prelude is for you man
fast&furious -- interested -- please send pics & info to PJ943@yahoo.com
buh buh -- 2jz=extremely awesome, but disgustingly expensive. By the time I saved up enough money for that, I'd probably be looking at the same amount to restore the car.
I'm leaning fairly far over toward the lude right now -- just got to throw on a few trhings to make my car a good sell, and we'll see what happens when I call the insurance3 company and ask what the payments will be.
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