Breaking News: 1992 Honda Prelude Restomod Crowned ‘Best in Show’ at Gran Turismo Awards – And It’s Coming to the Game!
Los Angeles, CA – November 9, 2025 – The world of automotive customization and virtual racing collided yesterday at the Gran Turismo Fan Festival in Los Angeles, as Big Mike’s meticulously crafted 1992 Honda Prelude took home the coveted “Best in Show” title at the inaugural Gran Turismo Awards (GT Awards). This isn’t just a win for Big Mike; it’s a statement about the enduring appeal of 90s Honda engineering and the boundless creativity within the car community. For those following Google Trends, automotive customization is a consistently high-search topic, and this event is generating significant buzz. This is a breaking news story that’s sure to resonate with car enthusiasts worldwide.
A 90s Honda Reimagined: The Story Behind the Build
Big Mike, a highly respected name in the Honda tuning scene, set out to prove that even vehicles often overlooked can be transformed into world-class machines. His choice of a fourth-generation Honda Prelude – a car often considered a hidden gem – was deliberate. “I wanted to show that world-class customization is possible using the 90s HONDA vehicle, which is sometimes described as inconspicuous, as a base,” Big Mike explained. The result is a stunning restomod that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern performance.
Big Mike with his award-winning 1992 Honda Prelude.
From Full Restoration to Turbocharged Powerhouse
This wasn’t a simple cosmetic upgrade. Big Mike’s team embarked on a complete, ground-up restoration. Every bolt and nut was replaced, ensuring a solid foundation for the ambitious modifications. Under the hood, a Garrett GTX28 turbocharger breathes new life into the engine, complemented by a fully customized system encompassing the radiator, oil lines, and fuel delivery. Restomods, like this Prelude, are experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by a desire to experience classic car charm with modern reliability and performance. This trend is a key area for SEO optimization within the automotive space.
Gran Turismo series producer Kazunori Yamauchi presents Big Mike with the “Best in Show” trophy.
A Fusion of Styles: JDM, USDM, and European Flair
The Prelude’s exterior is a captivating blend of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and US Domestic Market (USDM) styling cues, further enhanced by subtle influences from German high-performance cars. The striking “Nardo Gray” paint – a color famously associated with Audi – adds a touch of European sophistication. A one-off front bumper completes the unique look. Inside, the cabin has been completely reupholstered in two types of Alcantara, elevating the interior to a level of luxury and refinement. Understanding these stylistic influences is crucial for anyone interested in car culture and the nuances of automotive design.
Gran Turismo Integration: Experience the Prelude Virtually
The most exciting news for Gran Turismo fans? Big Mike’s incredible Prelude will be added to the game, allowing players to experience its performance firsthand. This integration bridges the gap between the real and virtual worlds, showcasing the artistry of car customization to a massive audience. This move by Polyphony Digital, the developers of Gran Turismo, demonstrates a commitment to celebrating real-world car culture within the game. This is a smart move for both brand engagement and attracting new players.
The success of Big Mike’s Prelude is a testament to the enduring power of passion, skill, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. It’s a reminder that even seemingly “inconspicuous” vehicles can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. Keep checking back with archyde.com for the latest updates on Gran Turismo, automotive news, and the ever-evolving world of car customization. We’ll be following the game’s update closely and providing in-depth coverage of the Prelude’s virtual debut.
