The Honda Civic Type R is heavier than previous generations of the Honda Prelude but this Prelude is 31kg heavier because it is carrying a hybrid battery pack to keep fuel consumption low whilst delivering high performance that Honda buyers desire.
The Prelude range of sports cars from day 1 was typically marketed as a sport compact or grand tourer, while the Civic Type R was a performance-focused car where weight reduction and of course driving entertainment was a design priority.
Here below is a comparison of typical curb weights for recent models:
Honda Civic Type R (latest generation FL5, 2023+): Approximately 1,429 kg (around 3,150 lbs).
Earlier models (FK8) were around 1,414 kg (3,117 lbs).
Honda Prelude (latest generation 2026 hybrid model): Expected to weigh around 1,460 kg(around 3,219 lbs). This new model is heavier than previous generations due to its hybrid powertrain and the chassis components shared with the current best selling Civic platform.
Older Honda Preludes (e.g., 5th gen, 1997-2001): Weighed significantly less, around 1,268 kg to 1,308 kg (around 2,800-3,042 lbs), depending on the specific trim and transmission.
In general, across different generations, the Civic Type R is the lighter, more performance-oriented vehicle, while the Prelude has often been a bit heavier, marketed as a more luxurious or “adult” sports coupe and this latest Prelude will continue to carry that marketing direction.
The fifth-generation Prelude was last produced in 2001, at which point it was a lighter, two-door coupe. Modern Civic Type R models are heavier and larger hatchback-style cars built with additional safety features and modern technology, resulting in a higher curb weight.
