The Honda S2000 is a two-seat, rear-wheel drive roadster that was produced from 1999 to 2009. It was designed as a high-performance sports car, featuring a lightweight aluminum body and a powerful inline-4 engine.
Engine and Performance
The S2000 was available with either a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter or 2.2-liter inline-4 engine, producing 237 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, respectively. The cars featured a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, with the option to upgrade to a sequential 6-speed box on later models.
The S2000 was capable of reaching high speeds, with the top-of-the-line AP1 trim model achieving a electronically limited top speed of 150 mph and accelerating from 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds.
Design and Features
The S2000's styling is characterized by its long hood, short rear deck, and pop-up headlights. The interior features a minimalist design, with sporty seats and minimal trim. Standard features on later models included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a CD player.
Safety features were also prioritized, with the S2000 featuring dual airbags, ABS, and traction control as standard equipment across all trims.
Trim Levels
Three main trim levels were produced for the Honda S2000: AP1 (1999-2003), AP2 (2004-2005), and F20C (2006-2009). The AP1 was the original model, featuring a 2.0-liter engine and a range of modifications to improve performance.
The AP2 saw significant updates, including a new 2.2-liter engine, improved suspension, and revised styling. The F20C was the final trim level, introducing an optional Sequential Sport Shift (SSS) transmission and various aerodynamic upgrades.
Sales and Legacy
Over its lifespan, Honda sold approximately 34,000 S2000s worldwide. While sales figures were not spectacular, the car developed a dedicated following among enthusiasts and received praise from critics for its handling, performance, and design.
The S2000 is often cited as one of the best-driving production cars of all time, praised for its direct steering, responsive engine, and well-balanced chassis. Despite its relatively low sales volume, the Honda S2000 remains a celebrated model in the automotive world.
