Did Honda S2000 come with automatic transmission?
In short, it did not. The Honda S2000 was offered exclusively with a manual transmission, specifically a 6-speed gearbox, across all markets and model years.
Transmission options by generation and market
Overview of the two generations and the factory gearbox choices. Across the board, the S2000 shipped with a manual 6-speed only, with no official automatic option.
- Both generations, AP1 and AP2, used a six-speed manual transmission; no factory automatic was offered.
- The drivetrain was engineered around a high-revving engine and precise manual gear shifting to deliver the intended driving experience.
- Some owners have pursued aftermarket automatic or paddle-shift conversions, but these are rare, costly, and not supported by Honda as factory options.
For enthusiasts, this meant the S2000 remained a purist's roadster, emphasizing driver involvement over automated convenience.
Rationale and market context
Honda designed the S2000 as a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sportscar aimed at enthusiasts who value a hands-on driving experience. A manual 6-speed gearbox was integral to the car's character and performance goals, and there was no official automatic option produced by Honda for any market.
Notes on aftermarket conversions
While aftermarket specialists occasionally discuss or attempt transmission swaps, including automated or semi-automatic systems, such projects are uncommon and complex. They generally do not reflect the factory specification and can affect reliability, warranty, and resale value.
In short, the factory S2000 remains a manual-transmission platform geared toward purists.
Summary
The Honda S2000 did not come with an automatic transmission from the factory. All production models were built with a six-speed manual gearbox, reinforcing Honda's emphasis on precision, performance, and driver engagement. Any non-manual conversions exist only in the realm of aftermarket projects and are not representative of the stock vehicle.
