The Honda S2000 has been out of production for 11 years. Since then, devotees have cried out for a replacement, but the unstable state of the sports car market today hasn’t given us much optimism. Honda is reportedly producing a second-generation model, despite all odds.
The marketing department of the Japanese automaker is reportedly “seriously exploring a return for the S2000 in 2024,” according to a Forbes article that cites “a source close to Honda.” Huzzah!
The S2000’s 25th anniversary would be commemorated by the introduction that year, and Honda’s 75th birthday might be celebrated by a concept car that previewed the production model the year before. The firm created a new/old S2000 idea for the vehicle’s 20th anniversary, maybe to pique interest in a second-generation model. This model had a body kit and other modernized components.
Naturally, it would be difficult to create an entirely new, emissions-compliant engine with a redline of 9000 rpm. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from the Civic Type R will serve as the anticipated powertrain for this brand-new S2000. If that were the case, the upcoming Type R would feature a version that was only faintly electrified.
Therefore, rather of a zingy top-end, we may expect a boosty midrange, albeit the car’s electrical system should at least help it avoid turbo lag.
The proportions will be similar to those of the original S2000, according to the Forbes story. If Honda is able to package the new turbo engine while adhering to contemporary crash rules, that would be extremely impressive. Its construction will use carbon fiber and aluminum to maintain the weight under 1360 kg.
When it arrived, the new S2000 would have to contend with tough competition from other Japanese sports cars. Recent weeks saw the debut of the brand-new Subaru BRZ, and the world will see the Toyota GR86 for the first time in 2019. The GR Supra should still be in production by 2024, and Nissan 400Z production will be in full swing by that time (despite Europe being shut out; we’re still bitter about that). But because the Civic Type R outperforms every other hot hatch on the market, we have complete faith in Honda to produce a vehicle that is superior to both domestic and foreign opponents.
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Honda S2000: Are they still produced?
Honda, a Japanese automaker, produced the Honda S2000, an open-top sports car, from 1999 until 2009. To commemorate the company’s 50th anniversary, the production version of the SSM concept car was unveiled on April 15, 1999, at the Tokyo Motor Show. In keeping with the S500, S600, and S800 roadsters of the 1960s, the S2000 is called after its two-liter engine displacement.
Over the course of the vehicle’s manufacturing, numerous modifications were made, including adjustments to the interior, bodywork, suspension, engine, and gearbox. The initial launch model was given the chassis code AP1, and the facelifted model, known as the AP2 in North America and Japan, included considerable improvements to the drivetrain and suspension despite sharing a similar exterior. On August 19, 2009, the S2000’s manufacturing halted.
The Honda S2000 stood out for having the highest mass-produced naturally aspirated engine specific power output at roughly 124 horsepower per liter, or about two horsepower per cubic inch.
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Since then, the price of valued models in good condition of the S2000 has significantly increased, making it a legitimate example of a modern vintage automobile. Special edition productions, like the CR (Club Racer) in the USA market, are the most sought-after models in the JDM community and the automotive industry as a whole. Standard AP1 and AP2 vehicles have also turned into collectibles.
How come Honda stopped producing the S2000?
The Honda S2000, a lightweight roadster that was first introduced in 1999, immediately established a reputation as a formidable rival to the venerable Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, the S2000 was terminated in 2009 due to sluggish sales, and plans for a replacement were shelved due to the financial crisis, whilst its Japanese rival is still being produced today. Since 2015, there have been rumors about a second-generation model, and it currently appears that Honda is getting closer to producing a replacement to reenter the market and compete with the Mazda Miata.
Honda stopped producing the S2000 when?
When the Honda S2000 first came out, we all knew it was a fun-handling, two-seater sports car, but many of us had no idea how much we would miss it once it was discontinued in 2009.
What makes the S2000 unique?
First of all, that engine contributed to the mythology of the S2000. When you first start the car, this might not seem to be the case because it doesn’t seem to show anything exceptional as you wait for it to reach idle. You continue to apply some revs while pondering the fuss. However, the S2000 really starts to become truly unique until you find that redline and begin to drive it seriously. The S2000 had a normally aspirated production automobile engine with the highest specific output ever recorded. Remember that the engine produces 124 horsepower per liter—without a turbocharger or supercharging.
The engine is connected to the absolutely stunning manual transmission. For years, people have waxed poetic about this gearbox, but the truth is that it is just that amazing. According to publications like Top Gear, the mechanical connection you feel between the engine and the gears may perhaps be the greatest available right now. In the S2000, changing gear is an event rather than just a procedure. At high rpm, you can shift into the next gear quickly, or when softly cruising, you can shift into the next gear gradually. Honda did a fantastic job pairing the engine and transmission.
What is the S2000 worth?
What is the value of a 2000 Honda S2000? A used 2000 Honda S2000 is worth between $6,651 and $12,950 depending on the mileage, extras, and condition of the car. Get a free evaluation right here.
Honda S2000s are quick.
What Speed Is an S2000? The S2000’s 1,997cc inline four cylinder DOHC-VTEC engine produces 237247hp (depending on the market), allowing it to reach 100 km/h in about 6 seconds and reach a top speed of little over 255 km/h (158 mph).
Are S2000s uncommon?
Honda sold only 700 S2000 CR models, making them exceedingly rare. Due to their scarcity and assortment of track-focused improvements, they have increased in value over the past five years from being $30,000 cars to six-figure collectors. In addition to having unique wheels, a quicker steering rack, stiffer suspension, revised aero, extra chassis bracing, and a one-piece detachable hardtop roof, CR models also received these upgrades.
This one, which has 123 kilometers on the odometer and is finished in yellow over black Alcantara and cloth, looks the part. The interior is in excellent condition, and the body panels and roof piece appear to be in flawless condition. The car’s engine compartment and underside appear to have never been touched by the outside world, which is not unexpected given that it has only traveled an average of 8.7 miles annually since it was first delivered in 2008.
Currently, a similarly equipped CR that sold for $122,500 on Bring a Trailer back in February 2022 has the distinction of most valued S2000 in the world. However, the mileage on that vehicle was 5500 when it was sold. At the time of writing, Rahal’s CR had received bids as high as $111,111, and there were still three days left to place them.
Rahal has relocated an S2000 using the Bring a Trailer platform before. The six-time IndyCar race winner paid $48,000 back in 2018 for a pristine 2000 S2000 painted in red with 1000 kilometers on the odometer. The next year, he earned $70,000 by auctioning off a 91-mile example.
Is buying an S2000 worthwhile?
A fantastic high-performance roadster that is practical for regular driving is the Honda S2000.
For aficionados of sports cars and roadsters, the late 1990s and early 2000s were a brilliant time, as numerous fantastic models, including the Nissan 350z, Mazda MX-5, and of course the Honda S2000, were debuted. The Honda S2000 is still extremely desirable because it is still one of the best sports cars you can buy.
It’s a fantastic alternative for anyone seeking for a used roadster because to its renowned VTEC engine and classic design. There are a few drawbacks to purchasing an automobile that is 22 years old, though, because of its age. Before purchasing a Honda S2000, consider the ten items listed below.
Honda S2000 dependability
The S2000 continues Honda’s tradition of building some of the world’s most dependable automobiles. The S2000 has shown to be a dependable mode of transportation, whether you use it daily or as a weekend warrior, despite its high-revving engine and aggressive suspension. Even better, because the S2000 is still a Honda, replacement parts are still widely accessible and reasonably priced.
On its reliability assessment, Repair Pal even gave the Honda S2000 four out of five stars. The only maintenance required, according to CarZing, is an oil change around every 6,000 miles, which serves as additional support. Of course, once the automobile has accumulated 150,000 miles, other maintenance tasks like clutch replacement, brake work, and perhaps strut replacement may be required. However, there have been numerous accounts of S2000 owners logging 300,000 or more miles on their vehicles without any significant problems.
In fact, a Road and Track editor just bought a Honda S2000 with more than 300,000 miles on it. He claimed that the vehicle runs “amazingly” and that no significant repairs are required because everything is “tight and calibrated.”
Which year of the Honda S2000 is the best?
What years are ideal for purchasing? Truth be said, there is no undisputed “best year S2000. On paper, the 2002 and later versions should be chosen because they have updated suspension and glass back windows.
Is an S2000 a reliable first vehicle?
The S2k is not a very good vehicle for novice drivers. Danger: RWD + Immaturity. A 16-year-old could want to push the car down every on-ramp and off-ramp, I can just picture that. gradually approaching the limit until one day the automobile begins to bite back.
Does VTEC increase a car’s speed?
Honda created the Variable Valve Timing & Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) technology to improve the overall performance, efficiency, and fun factor of their vehicles. The technology has become a well-known meme as a result of its frequent use in Fast and Furious movies. Few people are aware of the mechanics behind the expression “VTEC just kicked in, yo!” What you need to know about the system is provided here.
Why is the S2000 so adored by people?
The first and most important justification is the engine. Actually, there are 9,000 reasons why you should buy an S2000. The F20C engine’s four-cylinder, 16-valve VTEC configuration can reach 9,000 rpm, giving the modest roadster access to a select club that is primarily made up of supercars.
Is the S2000 a reliable everyday car?
Absolutely, yes! Drive an S2000 or any other sports automobile that suits your needs if you wish to! There is nothing better than approaching every corner and motorway onramp like Ayrton Senna, aside from normal commuting.
What distinguishes the AP1 from the AP2 S2000?
The AP1 is distinguished from the AP2 by its smaller weight and stiffer spring rates. By remaining as true to the race car design as feasible, weight was reduced. To reduce weight, items like a plastic back window were employed in place of a glass windowpane.