Whats so special about S2000?
The Honda S2000 is celebrated for its high-revving, naturally aspirated engine paired with a lightweight, balanced chassis that rewards precise, engaged driving.
Beyond the numbers, the S2000 embodies Honda’s philosophy of driver involvement: a meticulously engineered drivetrain, a chassis tuned for balance and feedback, and a simple, focused interior that keeps attention on the road. Across its two generations—AP1 and AP2—the car earned praise for purity, reliability, and how it rewards skill on winding roads and track days alike.
Engine and Performance
Power and revving characteristics
Key engine milestones and specifications across the two generations illustrate why the S2000 feels so eager and alive at high revs without forced induction.
- AP1 (1999–2003): 2.0L F20C, 9,000 rpm redline, approximately 237 hp, about 153 lb-ft of torque, highspecific power with i-VTEC delivering peak figures at high RPM.
- AP2 (2004–2009): 2.2L F22C1, also a 9,000 rpm redline, roughly 237 hp but with ~159 lb-ft of torque and broader midrange for everyday performance.
Together, these specifications explain why the S2000 feels like a synthetic blend of race-engine character and streetability: you rev it to its limit to extract the magic, and it remains linear and communicative along the way.
Chassis and Handling
Chassis layout and driving dynamics
Core handling traits that set the S2000 apart emphasize balance, feedback, and precision behind the wheel.
- Double‑wishbone suspension at both front and rear for predictable, telepathic response and strong camber control in corners.
- Near 50/50 weight distribution and a rigid, lightweight shell that promote neutral handling and easy adjustability on a track.
- Rear‑wheel drive with a well‑tuned limited‑slip differential in many trims and a six‑speed manual that rewards precise gear changes.
- Direct, communicative steering with quick responses and a chassis that transmits road feel with minimal intrusion.
In aggregate, the chassis engineering creates a platform that feels alive at the limit, inviting skillful driving rather than shielding the driver with assists. This combination has made the S2000 a perennial favorite among enthusiasts and professional drivers alike.
Design, Features, and Driver Experience
Cockpit and ergonomics
The S2000’s interior is a study in driver focus: minimal luxuries, a cockpit low to the road, and a signature instrument cluster that centers the rev range as the star of the show.
- Driver‑centric cockpit with a prominent central tachometer and clear, simple instrumentation.
- Six‑speed manual transmission with short, precise throws that encourage rev‑matching and engaging shifts.
- Lightweight, functional interior that prioritizes weight control and visibility over luxury features.
- Removable/soft‑top roof on the roadster variant to preserve weight and balance while delivering open‑air enjoyment.
These design choices give the S2000 a pure, focused driving experience: you feel connected to the car and the road, not to gadgets or electronics.
Historical Significance and Collectibility
Generational differences and current value
From its debut in the late 1990s through the end of production in 2009, the S2000 established itself as Honda’s modern flagship roadster and a benchmark for driver engagement.
- Two generations defined the model: AP1 (1999–2003) with the 2.0L F20C and AP2 (2004–2009) with the 2.2L F22C1, each delivering the same high‑revs in a slightly different balance of power and midrange.
- The car’s clinical precision, light weight, and communicative chassis earned it a devoted global following, from track enthusiasts to casual drivers seeking a pure driving experience.
- Today, well‑preserved, low‑mileage examples—especially pristine AP1s and carefully cared-for AP2s—remain highly sought after, often drawing premium prices in the collector market.
The S2000’s enduring appeal isn’t just nostalgia; it’s the realization that a modern, affordable sports car can deliver the kind of driver involvement that defined classic automotive thrills, while still offering reliability and everyday usability.
Summary
In the end, the Honda S2000 stands out for delivering a rare blend of high‑revving, naturally aspirated performance, razor‑sharp handling, and a driver‑focused, lightweight package. Its legacy rests on an engaging engine, a chassis that communicates clearly, and an interior that prizes focus over indulgence. Across AP1 and AP2, the S2000 remains a touchstone for how a sports car can feel purposefully analog in an increasingly digital world—and it continues to captivate new generations of enthusiasts.
Is the 2026 S2000 real?
Honda is set to bring back the iconic roadster in 2026, with a brand-new concept that blends the thrilling performance of the original with cutting-edge modern technology.
How much is a S2000 worth now?
The value of a Honda S2000 varies significantly based on its condition, mileage, and model year, ranging from approximately $15,000-$25,000 for a good condition model to well over $100,000 for rare, pristine examples like a Club Racer. Key factors like low mileage and a history of excellent maintenance are critical for higher valuations, while those with high mileage or accident history will be at the lower end of the price spectrum.
Factors influencing value
- Condition and mileage: Well-maintained S2000s with low mileage command higher prices. A car in excellent condition with under 50,000 miles can be expected to cost over $20,000, while cars with fair condition and higher mileage will be significantly less.
- Model year and trim: Early models (2000-2003) are valued differently than later ones (2004-2009). The rare Club Racer (CR) trim is exceptionally valuable, with one in concours condition fetching over $134,000.
- Market trends: The S2000 has held its value well, with some model years even appreciating in recent years.
- Auction vs. private sales: Auction prices can show a wide range, from low-end sales for cars needing work to record-breaking prices for exceptional examples.
Estimated values by condition
- Concours condition (rare/perfect):
- 2000-2003: ~$46,600
- 2004-2009: ~$52,800
- 2008-2009 CR: ~$134,000 - $143,000
- Excellent condition:
- 2004-2009: ~$42,200
- 2000-2003: ~$38,100
- Good condition:
- 2004-2009: ~$28,600
- 2000-2003: ~$24,200
- Fair condition:
- 2004-2009: ~$17,000
- 2000-2003: ~$16,500
Is the S2000 legendary?
Although production of the S2000 ended in 2009, its legacy endures as one of Honda's most beloved sports cars. The S2000 is often praised for its blend of performance, reliability, and driving pleasure, making it a highly sought-after vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts.
Why are Honda S2000 so rare?
The 2004 Honda S2000 remains relatively expensive for several reasons: Limited Production: The S2000 was produced in limited numbers, making it a rare find today. This scarcity often drives up demand and prices.
