That is a 5th genertion (97+). I have a black 98 base model as my daily driver and I love the car. Very fun and reliable, and you see a lot less of them than accords and civics. For what it's worth, 99+ preludes have 5 more HP from some tweaking Honda did.
Whether to get a base or SH is personal preference. They have the same engine and same horsepower. SH have active torque transfer system, which might help handling if you plan to autocross the car, but most prelude owners say it does nothing in everyday driving. On the down side, SH are slightly heavier and can be harder to modify, especially if you would want to go FI down the road.
Things I don't like about the car.. Many of the 5 speeds have the synchros go bad, so getting into 2nd gear, or sometimes 5th, in cold weather can be rough until the car warms up. If you buy one, I recommend changing the tranny fluid once a year. I have this problem, but only in winter. Also, for some reason the prelude was never available with leather seats, so if you want em (I do!), you'll have to try to find aftermarket ones that fit.
Dave