>>I'm the only owner of a 1982 silver Prelude (automatic [sorry], with
AC and the four-spoke mag wheels, dead "moon roof"). The car has only
118,000 miles on it, spent all its life spent in Virginia, and I have
every receipt the little bugger ever generated for service, etc.<<

I understand your dilemma. I just parted with my beloved 1982 Prelude (blue,
also auto) in June. It broke my heart, as it was my first car. I had no choice,
as it was rusting and the seats were literally disintegrating. I have a great
mechanic, so it ran fine, but it was still underpowered for today's highways
(and forget about accelerating with the a/c on!).
I got a Civic EX sedan with all the bells and whistles, so that made my
decision a little easier. Good luck in whatever you decide. I agree with the
poster who said you have to get your head in the place where you're ready to
give it up.