The Honda S2000 is a roadster manufactured by the Honda Motor Company. Launched in April 1999, the car was created to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary and continues in the tradition of the company's previous lightweight roadster "S" cars, the S500, S600 and S800. The S2000 features a front-mid-engine, rear wheel drive layout with power being delivered via a Torsen limited slip differential mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
The car is constructed using an X-bone monocoque frame, which is extremely rigid, improving passenger safety and handling. Other features include independent double wishbone suspension, electrically assisted steering and integrated roll hoops. The S2000 comes with an electrically powered vinyl top, and an OEM hardtop is also available. Virtually every component is unique to the S2000 and designed for outstanding performance.
Models
The S2000 was originally launched in 1999 as a 2000 model, given the chassis designation AP1. The 2000 model featured 16" wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tires. In the 2002 model year, suspension settings were revised and a smaller glass rear windscreen was introduced. The plastic rear window was replaced with glass, and an electric defroster was added. Additional updates included slightly revised tail lamps, an upgraded stereo, and a revised engine control unit (ECU).
From its beginning in 1999 to 2003, S2000s were manufactured at Honda's Tochigi Takanezawa plant, alongside the Honda NSX super car and Honda Insight Hybrid. Production of this car moved to the Suzuka plant in 2004.
The 2004 model introduced newly designed 17" wheels and Bridgestone RE-050 tires along with a re-tuned suspension that reduced the car's tendency to over-steer. The spring rates and shock absorber damping were altered and the suspension geometry modified to improve stability by reducing toe-in changes under cornering loads. In addition, cosmetic changes were made to the exterior with new front and rear bumpers, revised headlight assemblies, new LED tail-lights, and oval-tipped exhausts. At the same time, Honda introduced a 2.2L variant to the North American market. The revised car was given the chassis designation AP2.
The 2006 model introduced a drive by wire throttle, Vehicle Stability Assist system, new wheels, and one new exterior color, Laguna Blue Pearl. Some components of the interior were changed as well including revised seats, additional stereo speakers integrated into the headrests, and additional headrest padding where previous seats had helmet depressions and screens. The 2.2L engine was also introduced to the Japanese market during this time.
In 2007, two exterior colors (Suzuka Blue and Sebring Silver) were dropped, however the Grand Prix White color was re-introduced with a black/red/gray interior.
2000-2003 (2.0L Engine & Original Body Style)
2004-Current (2.2L Engine & Upgraded Head and Tail Lights)
Options, Features, & Specifications
Year Range: 2000-Current
Passengers: 2
Original MSRP: $32,000-$34,300
Average Bluebook Today: $11,000-$28,000
Fuel Mileage: 20-26 MPG
Horsepower: 237 BHP
Torque: 153-162 LB-FT
Towing Capacity: N/A
Transmission: 6-Speed Rear Wheel Drive Only
List of some of the standard features:
6-Speed with Over Drive, AC, Power Steering, Power Windows, Power Locks, Tilt Wheel, Cruise Control, Cassette, Dual Front Air Bags, ABS, Alloy Wheels
List of some of the optional features:
CD Player, Premium Sound, Leather, Power Seats