HONDA'S Prelude hit the jackpot with the third-generation model. Released in late 1987, it featured elegantly futuristic styling, a sumptuously equipped cabin, brilliant performance from a 106kW 2.0-litre twin-cam engine and four-wheel steering, which tightened the turning circle at low speeds while adding greater stability at higher ones. The Prelude even scooped the Wheels Car of the Year award. Downsides were limited to a very cramped rear seat, expensive parts and servicing, overly light steering and a hard ride - the upshot of its beautifully low bonnet line and trademark double wishbone suspension. But that didn't really matter. This Prelude hit a chord with buyers that subsequent models failed to replicate.