What transmission is in the S2000?
The Honda S2000 uses a six-speed manual transmission, pairing a traditional shift pattern with Honda’s high-revving engine. There was no factory automatic option, and the gearbox is celebrated for its precise, quick shifts.
Transmission type and design
The S2000 relies on a conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout with a six-speed manual gearbox designed to match the car’s sporty, high-revving character. The gearbox is close-ratio, purpose-built to keep the engine in its power band for spirited driving and track use.
Key characteristics of the S2000’s six-speed manual gearbox include:
- Six forward gears operated via a mechanical H-pattern shifter
- Hydraulic clutch actuation that provides a consistent feel and control
- Short, precise shift action that many drivers praise
- Durable construction designed to withstand the engine’s rev range and torque
In practice, the gearbox is tuned to deliver quick, confident gear changes that align with the car’s performance character, especially during spirited driving on winding roads or track days.
Generational notes
Honda kept the six-speed manual as the standard transmission across both major S2000 generations—AP1 (1999–2003) and AP2 (2004–2009). The AP2 brought refinements to gearing and calibration to improve everyday usability while preserving the high-rev, performance-focused nature of the drivetrain.
AP1 vs AP2 details
- AP1 (1999–2003): early version with the original close-ratio six-speed manual tuned for high-rev power
- AP2 (2004–2009): revised gearing and shift calibration to ease everyday driving while maintaining performance
Despite the updates, the S2000 consistently used a six-speed manual gearbox, aligning with Honda’s sporty ethos and the model’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics.
Summary
The S2000’s transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox, central to its character as a driver-focused roadster. Its close-ratio gearing, precise throws, and reliable clutch setup contribute to the car’s reputation as a pure, engaging Honda sports car from 1999 to 2009.
Why is the S2000 so special?
The Honda S2000 is special because of its high-revving, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 120 horsepower per liter, its driver-focused, balanced chassis with a front-mid engine layout, and its commitment to a pure, analog driving experience. It features a 9,000 rpm redline, a world-class manual transmission, and a rigid convertible body, all of which create an engaging and focused sports car that values driver experience over modern electronic aids.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Honda S2000's engine and driving experience: 57sDoug DeMuroYouTube · Apr 4, 2024
High-performance, naturally aspirated engine
- Extreme redline: The F20C engine is famous for its 9,000 rpm redline, a feature typically reserved for much more expensive supercars.
- High specific output: It achieves an impressive 120 horsepower per liter without forced induction, a testament to Honda's engineering prowess.
- VTEC technology: The engine utilizes Honda's VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system, which enhances both low-end and high-end performance.
Driver-focused chassis and handling
- Near 50/50 weight distribution: The front-mid engine layout places the engine further back in the chassis, resulting in a near-perfect weight balance and a mid-engine feel, as noted in this YouTube video and on Reddit.
- Exceptional handling: It features a double-wishbone suspension on all four corners and a rigid chassis, providing sharp, precise, and predictable handling.
- Roadster-specific design: The S2000 was designed from the ground up as a convertible, with a highly rigid body structure that eliminates the need for a fixed roof.
This video explains how the Honda S2000's chassis and design contribute to its handling: 50sShooting BrakeYouTube · Nov 4, 2025
Pure and engaging driving experience
- Manual-only transmission: The S2000 was only available with a manual transmission, making every drive an engaging and involving experience. The manual gearbox is often described as one of the best ever made.
- Analog focus: It lacks modern driver aids like automatic rev-matching or excessive electronic intervention, preferring to provide direct feedback and rewarding skilled inputs from the driver.
- Driver-oriented interior: The cabin features a race-inspired digital instrument cluster, with the tachometer front and center, and a design that focuses on the driver's experience.
How to tell if S2000 is AP1 or AP2?
And 17-in standard on my AP2. Now if you look the bumpers are different the emblems are different the lights are different there's a lot of differences in these cars that even I didn't realize.
How many gears does a S2000 have?
six speeds
In the S2000 transmission, all six speeds and reverse are on two parallel shafts. Both transmission shafts are coupled at the output end, a design feature borrowed from Honda's front-wheel-drive transmissions.
What transmission does the S2000 have?
6-speed manual
AP1 (1999–2003)
| Honda S2000 (AP1) | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0 L F20C I4 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm (94.5 in) |
