Honda’s 1988 Prelude Steered the REAR Wheels — Without a Computer!

Turn the steering wheel far enough, and the 1988 Honda Prelude 4WS would reverse its rear steering direction—all through a mechanical shaft and gearbox. This third-generation Prelude used steering angle to control the rear wheels. Small inputs steered them with the fronts; larger inputs eventually steered them the opposite way. There was no road-speed sensor deciding between highway stability and parking-lot agility. Honda built that compromise directly into the mechanism. The tighter turning circle was useful. Car and Driver’s comparison of two-wheel-steering and four-wheel-steering Prelude Si models also found an advantage in dry lane changes. Wet-weather results were less flattering, and skidpad testing showed why rear-wheel steering should not be mistaken for extra tire grip. The Prelude’s pop-up headlights and double-wishbone suspension set the scene for a distinctly 1980s Japanese engineering gamble. A second steering system added cost and service complexity, and Honda’s owner’s manual warned about unexpected rear-end swing near obstacles. Comparing mechanical 4WS with later electronic rear steering shows how engineers addressed its limitations. It’s the sort of engineering you could demonstrate to a friend before either of you ever left the parking lot. #MotorMemento #Honda -- Copyright / Fair Use Disclaimer: This video is created for commentary, criticism, education, and historical discussion. Archival photographs, footage, advertisements, logos, documents, and other third-party materials may be used where necessary to illustrate the subject. Motor Memento does not claim ownership of third-party copyrighted material, and all rights remain with their respective owners. Where applicable, material is used under the principles of fair use outlined in Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. For copyright-related concerns, please contact: mm.copyright@zilopeakstudio.com