The New Model Is Already Ending Up in Scrapyards
The new Honda Prelude appeared on the American market just a few months ago, but already a growing number of these cars can be seen being sold at salvage yards after accidents.
Sales and Accident Statistics
Since sales started in December, Honda has sold 969 units of the new Prelude in the USA: 174 in December, 216 in January, 299 in February, and 280 in March. Besides the two totaled cars reported last month, at least five more accident-damaged Preludes are now known across the country.
Someone wrecked their new Prelude before even driving 300 miles, and they are not the only one
First Example: A White Prelude with 417 Miles
The first car was listed on the IAAI auction. This white Prelude was involved in an accident with only 417 miles (671 km) on the odometer and sustained a serious impact to the front end. The bumper is missing, one headlight is gone, the driver’s side fender is dented, and the windshield is shattered. The description states that the car still starts and drives, but repairing it will not be cheap, especially considering that parts are likely quite scarce right now.
IAAI
Second Example: A Black Prelude with 1841 Miles
A second Prelude was also listed by IAAI at its Seattle branch. This black car had 1,841 miles (2,962 km) and is reported to also start and drive. It also suffered a serious frontal impact, crumpling the bumper and hood. It’s impossible to tell if the driver hit someone or was hit, but all airbags deployed, and the car needs serious restoration to return to the road.
IAAI
Third Example: A Blue Prelude with 3806 Miles
The Copart auction has also listed a damaged bright blue Prelude for sale. Its mileage is 3,806 miles (6,125 km), and the left side received a strong impact, leaving significant dents. The description does not specify if the car runs, but a glance at the instrument panel reveals an issue with the electric power steering. If this is repaired and a new rear body section is installed, the fix could be relatively straightforward.
Copart
These cases could be linked to a range of factors, from the normal accident statistics of new cars on the road to possible handling characteristics or drivers adapting to the new model. The relatively low overall sales volumes make each such accident noticeable, which could affect the perception of the Prelude’s reliability or popularity in the market. Future sales will show whether these events have impacted buyer confidence, or if the car continues to find its enthusiasts who are willing to buy even damaged examples for restoration.