Honda S2000: The High-Revving Roadster That Refuses to Be Forgotten

By Car Buzz Staff

More than 25 years after its debut, the Honda S2000 continues to be one of the most sought-after Japanese sports cars ever built. With its naturally aspirated engine, perfect 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel-drive layout, and one of the highest-revving production engines of its era, the S2000 has become a modern icon among driving enthusiasts.

As prices continue to rise and rumors of a spiritual successor circulate, the S2000's popularity has never been stronger.

A Brief History

Honda introduced the S2000 in 1999 to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. Designed from the ground up as a pure driver's car, it featured an advanced aluminum-intensive chassis, double wishbone suspension at all four corners, and a front-mid engine layout for exceptional balance.

Production ran from 1999 through 2009, with over 110,000 units built worldwide.

Honda S2000 Model Guide

AP1 (1999–2003)

The original AP1 quickly became famous for its Formula 1-inspired engine.

Highlights

• 2.0L F20C DOHC VTEC inline-four

• 240 horsepower

• 153 lb-ft torque

• 9,000 RPM redline (North America)

• 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission

• Torsen limited-slip differential

• Lightweight 2,800-pound curb weight

The AP1 delivers an incredibly raw driving experience with razor-sharp steering, a lively rear end, and one of the most rewarding manual gearboxes ever produced.

AP2 (2004–2009)

Honda refined the S2000 with improvements aimed at making it more stable and easier to drive while maintaining its character.

What's New?

• Larger 2.2L F22C1 engine (North America)

• 237 horsepower

• 162 lb-ft torque

• Increased mid-range torque

• Lower 8,200 RPM redline

• Revised suspension geometry

• Updated transmission synchronizers

• Larger 17-inch wheels

• Revised front and rear bumpers (2006 facelift)

• Drive-by-wire throttle

Many enthusiasts consider the AP2 the perfect balance between performance and daily usability.

The Legendary S2000 CR (Club Racer)

The 2008–2009 Honda S2000 CR is the rarest production S2000 sold in North America.

Honda developed the CR specifically for track enthusiasts.

CR Features

• Factory removable hardtop

• Larger rear wing

• Aggressive front splitter

• Revised suspension

• Quicker steering feel

• Increased chassis rigidity

• Recaro seats

• Yellow stitching throughout interior

• Reduced weight

• No convertible soft top

Only 699 CR models were produced for North America, making it one of the most collectible Hondas ever built.

Today, clean CR models regularly command well over $80,000, with exceptional low-mileage examples selling for significantly more.

Performance Specs

Why the S2000 Is Still So Popular

Unlike many modern sports cars that rely on turbochargers and electronic driver aids, the S2000 rewards driver skill.

Its defining characteristics include:

• One of the greatest manual transmissions ever made

• Naturally aspirated VTEC engine

• Near-perfect chassis balance

• Hydraulic power steering

• High reliability

• Timeless styling

• Huge aftermarket support

Whether on a mountain road, autocross course, or race track, the S2000 remains one of the most engaging driver's cars ever produced.

Latest Honda S2000 News (2026)

Although Honda has not officially announced a new S2000, the model continues to attract significant attention.

Rising Collector Values

The S2000 has firmly entered collector-car territory. Low-mileage, unmodified examples—particularly 2008–2009 CR models and clean AP1s—continue to appreciate as enthusiasts seek original cars.

OEM Parts Support Continues

Honda continues to supply many replacement components for the S2000 through its genuine parts network, helping owners keep these cars on the road. Some trim pieces and specialty components have become harder to source, increasing demand for well-preserved examples.

Strong Aftermarket Community

The S2000 aftermarket remains one of the strongest in the Japanese performance world. Popular upgrades include:

• Turbocharger kits

• Supercharger systems

• Coilover suspension

• Widebody conversions

• Carbon-fiber aero

• AP2 transmission upgrades

• Track-focused brake packages

• Hardtop conversions

Successor Rumors

Rumors of an S2000 successor continue to surface periodically, often tied to Honda patents or anniversary speculation. As of now, Honda has not confirmed development of a new S2000, and any reports of a revival remain speculative.

Buying Guide

If you're shopping for an S2000, inspect these common areas:

• Soft top condition (or hardtop fitment)

• Convertible top latches

• Rear differential noise

• Clutch wear

• Suspension bushings

• Timing chain tensioner

• Valve retainers on early AP1 models (verify recall/service history where applicable)

• Frame rails and underbody damage from improper jack placement

• Signs of track use or accident repairs

A documented maintenance history and an unmodified example typically command the highest resale value.

Final Thoughts

The Honda S2000 remains one of the purest driver's cars ever built. Its combination of a screaming VTEC engine, perfectly weighted manual gearbox, balanced rear-wheel-drive chassis, and timeless styling has earned it legendary status. Whether you prefer the high-revving AP1, the refined AP2, or the ultra-rare CR, every version delivers an engaging experience that few modern sports cars can match.

As the market continues to recognize its significance, the S2000 is no longer just a used sports car—it's a modern classic that embodies Honda's engineering excellence and passion for driving.