The Honda Prelude Type R has become a reality through an ambitious custom build that replaces the hybrid-powered coupe’s original powertrain with a turbocharged K20 Type R engine producing more than 300 horsepower. The completed project has made its online debut and appeared at the SEMA show, showcasing a performance-focused Prelude that Honda never officially produced.
The conversion combines Civic Type R mechanical components with the Prelude’s original design, resulting in a modified car that maintains a surprisingly factory-like appearance.
Honda Prelude Type R Project Reaches Completion
Converting a hybrid Honda Prelude into a turbocharged Type R-powered machine was a significant undertaking, although the completed build makes the process look relatively straightforward.
The project began with the installation of the turbocharged 2.0-liter Type R engine and six-speed manual transmission. By September, the car could already move under its own power, but substantial work remained before the conversion could be considered complete.
The remaining work focused on performance upgrades and exterior modifications, with support from sponsor Idemitsu Lubricants.
Civic Type R Parts Give the Prelude a Factory-Style Appearance
Several Civic Type R components were incorporated into the Prelude’s exterior while preserving its original styling.
The modifications include a Civic Type R front lip and the lower section of the Civic’s rear bumper, which was integrated into the Prelude’s existing bodywork.
The hood is a carbon-fiber component from Seibon featuring an integrated factory Type R scoop. Once painted, it could blend even more naturally with the original exterior design.
The overall approach gives the modified Prelude a stock-plus appearance rather than making it look like a completely different vehicle.
How Difficult Was the Honda Prelude Type R Engine Swap?
The conversion revealed considerable similarities between the Civic and Prelude, with fewer fabrication requirements than might be expected.
“Everything pretty much bolted on,” the team explained.
Only one engine mount required fabrication. The engine, Civic dashboard, and steering column were otherwise ready for bolt-in installation.
Although the process was not entirely effortless, the limited fabrication required demonstrated how closely related the two Honda models are.
How Much Horsepower Does the Turbocharged Prelude Produce?
The engine-swapped Prelude initially ran using the factory tune, but several performance modifications have since changed its configuration.
The upgrades include a PracWorks carbon-fiber intake manifold, a larger turbocharger from Pure, and new fuel injectors. These components are designed to increase engine output but required a revised tune.
A new calibration was installed to keep the car running until it could undergo dynamometer testing.
An official horsepower figure has not yet been announced. However, the modified engine is expected to produce more than the Civic Type R’s 315 horsepower.
Honda Prelude and Civic Type R Share Key Components
The conversion also highlights the mechanical similarities between the Prelude and Civic Type R.
When Honda introduced the Prelude, it equipped the model with the Civic Type R’s front suspension and brakes rather than components from the standard Civic or a separate Prelude-specific setup.
That shared hardware does not make the engine conversion completely effortless, but it helps explain why the project required relatively limited fabrication.
The completed Honda Prelude Type R combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, a six-speed manual transmission, upgraded performance components, and a factory-inspired exterior, creating a custom performance model that Honda has never officially offered.
