How much was the S2000 when it first came out?
The Honda S2000, a beloved roadster known for its high-revving engine and exceptional handling, made its debut in 1999 as a 2000 model year vehicle. It quickly became a favorite among car enthusiasts for its performance and timeless design. But how much did it cost when it first hit the market? Let’s take a closer look at the pricing and what made this car such a standout in its time.
The Initial Price of the Honda S2000
When the Honda S2000 was first released in the United States in 1999, it had a starting price of approximately $32,000. This price positioned it as a premium sports car, offering a balance of affordability compared to luxury sports cars while delivering exceptional performance and engineering. Adjusted for inflation, this would be significantly higher in today’s dollars, but at the time, it was considered a competitive price for what the car offered.
What Made the S2000 Worth the Price?
The Honda S2000 wasn’t just about its price—it was about the value it delivered. Here are some of the key features that justified its cost:
- High-Revving Engine: The S2000 was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine (F20C) that produced 240 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines per liter at the time.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: The car featured a rear-wheel-drive layout, which, combined with its near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, made it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
- Six-Speed Manual Transmission: Enthusiasts loved the precise and engaging six-speed manual gearbox, which added to the car’s sporty character.
- Convertible Design: The S2000 came with a soft-top convertible roof, allowing drivers to enjoy open-air motoring.
- Timeless Styling: Its sleek and minimalist design has aged gracefully, making it a classic even today.
Legacy of the Honda S2000
Although production of the Honda S2000 ended in 2009, its reputation as a driver’s car has only grown over the years. Today, well-maintained examples often sell for prices close to or even exceeding their original MSRP, a testament to the car’s enduring appeal and quality.
For enthusiasts who were lucky enough to purchase the S2000 when it first came out, it represented a fantastic value for a high-performance sports car. And for those who dream of owning one today, it remains a symbol of Honda’s engineering excellence and dedication to creating cars that are as fun to drive as they are reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many S2000 exist?
| Honda S2000 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Production | 1999–2009 (110,673 produced) |
| Designer | Shigeru Uehara (1995) |
| Body and chassis |
How much was a Honda S2000 in 2000?
2000 Honda S2000 Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| Convertible 2D | $32,415 | $19,949 |
What was the original price of a 1999 Honda S2000?
The Honda S2000 1999 prices range from $9,680 for the basic trim level Convertible S2000 base to. The Honda S2000 1999 comes in Convertible. The Honda S2000 1999 is available in Premium Unleaded Petrol. Engine sizes and transmissions vary from the Convertible 2.0L 6 SP Manual to the Convertible 2.0L 6SP Manual.
Do Honda S2000 hold their value?
In the last five years, as with many niche enthusiast models, prices for S2000's have exploded. The average price of an S2000 on Classic.com with a sample size of 803 sales is $32,631.
What is the best year for S2000?
The Honda S2000 is an excellent sports car option. If you want to purchase a used version for your life, we recommend the 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, or 2009 selection.
What does S2000 stand for?
The S2000 is named for its engine displacement of two litres, while "S" stood for "sports" carrying on in the tradition of the S500, S600, and S800 roadsters of the 1960s. Honda S2000. 2005 Honda S2000 (AP2)
Why are S2000 so rare?
Limited Production: The Honda S2000 was produced in limited quantities, which contributes to its scarcity and collector's appeal. A limited supply of a desirable car can drive up its price. High Demand: The S2000 has a dedicated fan base and a strong following among automotive enthusiasts.
Why are S2000 so expensive now?
Honda built fewer than 700 examples when production was cut short mid-2009, ostensibly in light of slowing sales following the global financial crisis. An S2000 CR in Excellent condition now commands $108,000, an increase of 21.5 percent over the last year. For context, that's the exact same price for a 1992 Acura NSX.
How much did the S2000 cost at launch?
The Honda S2000 debuted as a concept car in 1995, and it took the company five years to bring it to market. At launch, it had a 2.0-liter (hence the S2000 name), 240-horsepower four-cylinder engine. List price was $32,477. There were no options offered.
Was the Honda S2000 fast?
Wind it out further, however, and the S2000 walks away from the Bimmer, hitting 120 mph some seven seconds quicker. We're sure that a properly broken-in example launched on a drag strip will run 0 to 60 in the mid-five-second range, and we'll test another one soon.
