Honda · BB6
Honda Prelude BB6
The fifth-generation Prelude introduced Honda's Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), an ingeniously engineered front-differential system that actively distributes torque between the front wheels to fight torque steer and sharpen cornering — years before torque vectoring became a mainstream buzzword.
Spec Sheet
- Generation / Chassis Code
- BB6
- Years Produced
- 1996–2001
- Manufacturer
- Honda
- Country
- Japan
- Body Style
- 2-door coupe
- Engine
- 2.2L inline-4 (H22A, DOHC VTEC)
- Horsepower
- 197–217 hp
- Torque
- 156 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- FWD
- Weight
- ~2,900 lbs
- 0–60 mph
- ~6.6 seconds
History
Honda used the BB6 Prelude as a technology showcase, pairing the high-revving H22A VTEC engine with the innovative ATTS system, which used planetary gearsets to actively vary torque delivery left-to-right, a genuinely novel solution for taming front-wheel-drive power.
Why It Became Famous
Its ATTS torque-vectoring differential was years ahead of its time, offering genuine handling benefits that most FWD performance cars wouldn't match until torque vectoring became common decades later.
Strengths
- H22A VTEC engine offers strong, high-revving naturally-aspirated performance
- ATTS active torque-vectoring differential genuinely improves cornering and reduces torque steer
- Distinctive, low, wide styling that still looks sharp today
- Strong H-series tuning community support
Weaknesses
- ATTS system adds mechanical complexity and repair cost versus a simpler open or LSD differential
- FWD ultimately limits outright grip compared to AWD or RWD rivals
- Values and enthusiast attention lag behind more famous Honda models like the Integra Type R
- Some ATTS units on aging examples need specialist rebuilding
Common Problems
- ATTS differential wear and fluid maintenance needs on higher-mileage cars
- VTEC solenoid and timing belt wear typical of H-series engines
- Rust in rear arches on humid or salted-road climate examples
- Suspension bushing wear affecting the car's handling precision
Modification Potential
Good — H22A engines respond well to cams, individual throttle bodies, and built internals, and the ATTS differential remains functional and desirable even in modified builds.
Buying Guide
Verify ATTS system function during a test drive (listen and feel for smooth torque transfer through corners), check H22A timing belt and VTEC service history, and inspect for rust in typical problem areas.
Enthusiast Popularity Today
An underrated enthusiast favorite, respected by Honda purists for its genuinely innovative engineering even though it never reached Integra Type R levels of fame.
Fun Facts
- The ATTS system used a planetary gearset to actively overdrive the outside front wheel in corners, a genuine precursor to modern torque-vectoring differentials
- It's one of the few FWD cars of its era engineered specifically to counteract torque steer at a mechanical level rather than through electronics alone
- The Prelude nameplate was discontinued in most markets shortly after this generation as coupe sales declined industry-wide
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