What was the S2000 designed for?
The Honda S2000 is one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced by Honda, celebrated for its high-revving engine, precise handling, and timeless design. Introduced in 1999 to commemorate Honda's 50th anniversary, the S2000 was designed with a clear purpose: to deliver an exhilarating driving experience that embodies the spirit of a true sports car. In this article, we’ll explore the key design intentions behind the Honda S2000 and why it remains a beloved vehicle among enthusiasts.
1. A Tribute to Honda's Racing Heritage
The S2000 was designed as a tribute to Honda's rich motorsport history. Honda has long been associated with Formula 1 and other racing disciplines, and the S2000 was built to reflect this legacy. Its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and high-revving naturally aspirated engine were all inspired by the principles of race car engineering.
2. A Focus on Driver Engagement
One of the primary goals of the S2000's design was to create a car that prioritized driver engagement. Honda achieved this through several key features:
- A high-revving 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.
- A 6-speed manual transmission with short, precise throws for an unparalleled connection between the driver and the car.
- A 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling and exceptional cornering performance.
- A lightweight and rigid chassis, which enhanced responsiveness and agility.
These features combined to make the S2000 a car that rewarded skilled drivers and provided a thrilling experience on both the road and the track.
3. Celebrating Open-Top Driving
The S2000 was designed as a roadster, emphasizing the joy of open-top driving. Its power-operated soft top could be lowered in seconds, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the road. This design choice was a nod to classic sports cars of the past, while also offering modern conveniences and reliability.
4. A Showcase of Honda's Engineering Excellence
Honda used the S2000 as a platform to showcase its engineering prowess. The car featured advanced technologies for its time, including:
- VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology, which allowed the engine to deliver both high power and efficiency.
- An X-bone frame structure for enhanced rigidity and safety.
- Double-wishbone suspension for superior handling and ride quality.
These innovations demonstrated Honda's ability to push the boundaries of automotive engineering and create a car that was both fun to drive and reliable.
Conclusion
The Honda S2000 was designed to be a pure sports car that celebrated Honda's racing heritage, engineering excellence, and passion for driving. Its combination of a high-revving engine, precise handling, and open-top design made it a standout in the automotive world. Even today, the S2000 remains a highly sought-after car among enthusiasts, a testament to its timeless appeal and the success of Honda's vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a S2000 worth now?
Depending on vehicle details such as the model, year and condition - the average used Honda S2000 sells for $27,135 in the current market, which is -0.14% lower than the average used car. Recent used model years of the Honda S2000 are currently priced at an average of $28,956, according to our used car price index.
What is the life expectancy of a Honda S2000?
The Honda S2000 has an average lifespan of 78,725 miles or about 9.2 years. The S2000's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.
Why did Honda get rid of the S2000?
The Honda S2000 was discontinued primarily due to declining sales and changing market demands. Here are some key factors that contributed to its discontinuation: Market Trends: By the late 2000s, consumer preferences shifted toward larger vehicles, such as SUVs and crossovers.
Was the Honda S2000 in fast and furious?
This Honda S2000 was driven by Johnny Tran in the original Fast and Furious, and by Suki in the second installment, 2 Fast, 2 Furious. For the character Suki, the Honda was repainted a bright pink (it was black in the first film) and given an anime-style airbrush treatment.
What is the difference between a S2000 and a S2000 CR?
The CR has a more aggressive spoiler up front, a big wing perched on the decklid, and a hefty brace spanning the well behind the seats. That's where the soft top usually stows, but the CR doesn't have one. A removable hard top covers the cockpit.
Why is the S2000 so sought after?
- 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.
- Uniqueness: The S2000 was kn
What was the S2000 made for?
In 1999, Honda launched the S2000 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The two-seat roadster revolutionised the way sports cars were made, resulting in one of the most thrilling driver's cars of the era.
Why is the S2000 so expensive?
The S2000 was expensive because it was one of several rear-drive Honda cars; yes, there was the S600, which was the forerunner, but in general, if you want a modern rear-drive Honda, your only option is the S2000, especially since the NS-X as an other RWD Honda is much more expensive than the S2K.
What is so special about the Honda S2000?
The Honda S2000 was notable for its exceptional specific power output of about 92 kW (124 hp) per litre, or about two horsepower per cubic inch, the highest of any mass production, naturally aspirated engined car, until 2010.
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.
