by First Wrecked Honda Preludes Already at Auction
The new Honda Prelude hasn’t even fully appeared on U.S. roads yet, but two of its examples have already ended up at the IAAI salvage auction. Both coupes have serious damage to the rear, but, as noted, they are still drivable. These cars are likely the first written-off Preludes since the model’s revival.
Damage Details of the First Example
The first car (lot 44919713) fell victim to a severe impact to the rear. On the driver’s side, large dark scratches are visible on the bumper, but the real problem is the passenger side. There, a large dent has formed on the rear quarter panel, deforming the metal sheet and even bending the top of the wheel towards the body. Replacing the bumper is a simple matter, but repairing welded body panels is much more serious. This Prelude had covered only 264 miles before the accident.
Second Prelude: Damage Is Even More Serious
The second example (lot 44534805), also white with blue calipers, has only 575 miles on the odometer, but its condition is significantly worse. Both rear quarter panels are crumpled, the bumper is practically destroyed, the LED light strip is smashed, and the rear glass is missing. The deformations are so severe that from some angles the car resembles a Honda Civic hatchback. Interestingly, despite the scale of destruction, the auction claims this Prelude can drive – unlike the first, less damaged example.
Interest in these lots may be high among those looking for donor parts for repairs or willing to undertake a complex restoration.
The emergence of such auction lots so soon after the start of sales of the new model is, on one hand, an indicator of misfortunes on the road, and on the other – an opportunity for enthusiasts and workshops. Parts for these cars are not yet common, so discounted wrecked examples could become a valuable source of spare parts. Such situations also often draw attention to the issues of safety and insurance costs for new models at the beginning of their life cycle.
