How much HP does a S2000 have?
The Honda S2000 typically delivers about 240 horsepower in the most common US-spec versions, with later AP2 models around 237 hp. Japanese-market variants can be around 250 PS (roughly 247 hp). Real-world horsepower depends on measurement standards and vehicle condition, and wheel horsepower is usually lower than engine horsepower.
Overview of the S2000 engines
The S2000 was produced from 1999 to 2009 and used two main generations with two different engines. The AP1 left the factory with a high-revving 2.0-liter F20C, while the AP2 updated to a 2.2-liter F22C1. Horsepower figures vary by market and emission standards, so ratings differ slightly between regions and model years.
HP by generation and market
Below is a concise breakdown of typical factory horsepower ratings for the S2000 by generation and market. Note that these figures are crank horsepower as rated by the manufacturer; wheel horsepower varies with drivetrain, tires, and testing method.
- US-spec AP1 (1999–2003): about 240 hp at 7,800 rpm; torque around 153 lb-ft at ~6,500 rpm
- AP2 (2004–2009 US): about 237 hp at 7,800 rpm; torque around 162 lb-ft at ~6,500 rpm
- Japan/other markets (AP1/JDM variants): around 250 PS (roughly 247 hp) at ~7,800 rpm; torque around 159–160 lb-ft
Notes on measurement: horsepower figures can vary slightly by year, emission standards, and whether SAE gross or SAE net ratings were used. Wheel horsepower is typically ~10–20% lower depending on drivetrain and dyno. The S2000’s high-revving nature is a central part of its appeal, not merely its peak horsepower.
Engine specifics and performance context
The F20C in AP1 is renowned for its high-revving profile, with a redline near 9,000 rpm, while the AP2’s F22C1 maintained strong top-end output while offering a touch more torque. In practice, the car’s light weight and balanced chassis make the S2000 feel quick even when peak horsepower numbers are modest by modern standards.
Summary
The Honda S2000 commonly delivers around 240 hp in early US-spec cars, about 237 hp in the later AP2, and roughly 247–250 hp in Japanese-market versions (250 PS). Real-world horsepower varies with measurement standards and condition, and wheel horsepower will be lower than crank horsepower. The car remains celebrated for its high-revving engine and agile handling rather than peak horsepower alone.
