Honda Prelude XE (E-SN)
The first Prelude made a compact front-drive coupe feel special with a power sunroof, a target-style instrument cluster and all-independent suspension.
Honda Prelude 1978.jpg · Rikita · CC BY-SA 3.0
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More than a set of wheels.
Honda announced the Prelude on November 24, 1978 and opened Japanese sales the next day. The launch range had XT, XR, XE and E grades, all using the E-SN model code and 1.75-liter CVCC engine. The XE put the full idea together: power-assisted steering, wide tires and the electric sunroof Honda described as a Japanese-car first. Its long hood and low roof looked sporty, but its front-wheel-drive packaging and quiet engine kept it usable every day.
Look a little closer.
The speedometer and tachometer shared one visual target, letting Honda pack two big pieces of driving information into the same line of sight.
Photos show an example of the model or generation. The pictured vehicle’s year, equipment, or modifications can differ from the specification described here.
A coupe designed around the front seats
Honda called the Prelude a four-seater but said the cabin deliberately prioritized the two front occupants. Thin pillars and curved glass improved outward vision, while the separated trunk and compact built-in air-conditioning option protected passenger space. It was a personal coupe first, not a family sedan wearing two doors.
Source: Honda Newsroom · 1978 Prelude launch ↗The chassis was more serious than the shape alone
Honda integrated an engine-room subframe into the monocoque, used strut independent suspension at all four corners and fitted stabilizer bars front and rear. The engineering goal was not simply a low silhouette: it was a rigid, quiet structure with predictable wheel control and a sporty feel that did not punish everyday drivers.
Source: Honda Factbook · Prelude 1978 specifications ↗Where these facts come from
- Honda Newsroom · 1978 Prelude launch
- Honda Factbook · Prelude 1978 specifications
- Honda Factbook · Prelude 1978 overview
Selected facts checked for this edition. Some source pages link to broader model families. Last reviewed October 1, 2026.