The 1998 Honda Passport: A Compact SUV Built on a Truck Frame

The 1998 Honda Passport is a mid-size sport utility vehicle that Honda built by modifying the Isuzu Rodeo platform under a partnership agreement. It sits between a car and a full-size truck in size and capability, making it useful for both daily driving and light off-road work. The 1998 model year marks the second generation of the Passport line, which Honda produced from 1994 to 2002.

This vehicle appeals to buyers who want more cargo space and ground clearance than a sedan but prefer something smaller and more fuel-efficient than a full-size SUV. The 1998 Passport came standard with a V6 engine, available all-wheel drive, and a choice of manual or automatic transmission. It seats five passengers and offers a removable rear cargo cover and roof rack as standard features.

Key Takeaways

  • The 1998 Passport uses a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 205 horsepower and runs on regular unleaded gasoline.
  • All-wheel drive is available on the 1998 model but not standard; the base model comes with rear-wheel drive only.
  • Fuel economy ranges from 16 to 19 miles per gallon depending on transmission type and drivetrain configuration.
  • The vehicle has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it suitable for small trailers and boats.
  • Common maintenance items on aging 1998 models include transmission fluid changes, timing belt inspection, and suspension component replacement.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The 1998 Honda Passport comes with a single engine option: a 3.2-liter V6 that produces 205 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is lighter and offers slightly better fuel economy, while the automatic is more convenient for city driving and traffic.

The V6 engine runs on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. The fuel tank holds 21.1 gallons, which gives a typical driving range of 330 to 400 miles depending on driving conditions and transmission choice. The engine does not require premium fuel, which keeps fuel costs lower than some competing SUVs from that era.

Drivetrain and Handling

The 1998 Passport comes standard with rear-wheel drive, which sends power to the rear wheels only. All-wheel drive is a factory option that distributes power to all four wheels and improves traction in snow, mud, and loose gravel. The all-wheel-drive system is not full-time; it can be engaged and disengaged by the driver using a lever on the dashboard.

The vehicle sits on an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a live axle rear suspension, a setup borrowed from the Isuzu Rodeo. This combination provides a comfortable ride on highways while maintaining enough ground clearance for light off-road trails. The turning radius is tight for an SUV of this size, making it easier to maneuver in parking lots and tight urban spaces compared to larger sport utilities.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

The 1998 Passport has a two-row seating arrangement with room for five occupants. The front seats are bucket-style with manual or power adjustment depending on trim level, and the rear bench seat folds flat to expand cargo space. The rear cargo area measures 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 74.4 cubic feet when the rear seat is folded down.

The vehicle includes a removable tonneau cover over the cargo bed as standard equipment, which protects cargo from weather and theft. A roof rack is also standard, allowing you to carry additional gear on top of the vehicle. The interior uses cloth upholstery on base models, with leather available on higher trim levels. Climate control is manual on base models and automatic on upper trims.

Safety Features and Crash Protection

The 1998 Passport comes equipped with dual front airbags as standard safety equipment. Anti-lock brakes are available on higher trim levels but not standard on all models, so check the specific trim of any used vehicle you are considering. The vehicle has a wheelbase of 109.4 inches and an overall length of 181.5 inches, giving it a relatively stable platform for its size class.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted crash testing on the 1998 Passport, though safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since then. If you are considering a 1998 model for purchase, have a may have access to mechanic inspect the structural integrity of the frame and suspension, as rust and wear are common issues on vehicles of this age.

Fuel Economy and Operating Costs

The 1998 Passport with the manual transmission achieves approximately 18 to 19 miles per gallon in combined city and highway driving. The automatic transmission version gets about 16 to 17 miles per gallon. All-wheel-drive models consume slightly more fuel than rear-wheel-drive versions due to the added weight and drivetrain complexity.

Insurance costs for a 1998 Passport are typically moderate compared to other vehicles in its class, though rates vary by location, driving history, and coverage level. Maintenance costs are reasonable because the V6 engine is durable and parts are still widely available through Honda dealers and independent shops. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, transmission fluid changes every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles.

Common Issues and Maintenance Concerns

The 1998 Passport is known for reliable operation, but certain components wear out predictably as the vehicle ages. The automatic transmission can develop shifting problems after 100,000 miles, particularly if transmission fluid has not been changed regularly. The timing belt is a critical maintenance item that must be replaced at 105,000 miles to prevent engine damage if it breaks.

Rust can develop on the frame and undercarriage in areas with road salt or high humidity, so inspect the underside carefully if you are buying a used example. The suspension components, including struts and control arm bushings, typically wear out between 80,000 and 120,000 miles depending on driving conditions. The air conditioning system may lose refrigerant over time and require recharging every few years.

Trim Levels and Options

The 1998 Passport came in three trim levels: EX, LX, and SE. The EX is the base model with manual windows, manual locks, and cloth upholstery. The LX adds power windows, power locks, and a power driver's seat. The SE is the top trim with leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a power sunroof.

Factory options across all trims include all-wheel drive, automatic transmission, a CD player, and a sunroof. The all-wheel-drive system adds approximately 200 pounds to the vehicle's weight and reduces fuel economy by about 1 to 2 miles per gallon. A roof rack and tonneau cover come standard on all models, and a towing package with a receiver hitch is available as a dealer-installed option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a 1998 Honda Passport weigh?

The 1998 Passport weighs between 4,300 and 4,600 pounds depending on drivetrain and trim level. Rear-wheel-drive models are lighter than all-wheel-drive versions. The exact weight is listed on the driver's door jamb of any specific vehicle.

Can the 1998 Passport tow a boat or trailer?

Yes, the 1998 Passport has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when equipped with the optional towing package. This capacity is sufficient for small boats, utility trailers, and travel trailers under 3,500 pounds. Always verify the towing package is installed before attempting to tow, as the base model without the package has a lower capacity.

What is the difference between the 1998 Passport and the Isuzu Rodeo?

The 1998 Passport and Isuzu Rodeo share the same platform and mechanical components, but Honda added its own styling, interior design, and badging to the Passport. The vehicles are mechanically identical, so parts and service information overlap significantly. Honda marketed the Passport as a more refined alternative to the Rodeo.

How many seats does the 1998 Passport have?

The 1998 Passport seats five passengers: two in the front bucket seats and three in the rear bench seat. The rear seat does not split, so it folds as one unit when you need to expand cargo space.

Is the 1998 Passport still reliable after 25 years?

The 1998 Passport can remain reliable if it has been maintained properly, but age-related wear is inevitable. Have any used 1998 model inspected by a mechanic before purchase, focusing on the timing belt, transmission, suspension, and frame for rust. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs of worn components will extend the vehicle's useful life.