The late 90s and early 2000s were a great time for fans of sports cars and roadsters, with some great models being introduced like the Nissan 350z, Mazda MX-5, and of course, the Honda S2000. The Honda S2000 is still to this day regarded as one of the best sports cars you can buy, which is why it's still so valuable.
Its famous VTEC engine and timeless styling make it a great option for those looking for a used roadster. However, due to its age, there are a few cons to buying a car that is now 22 years old. Below are 10 things you should know before buying a Honda S2000.
10 Price
The most important factor for most when purchasing a used or new car is the price. Depending on year and spec, you can get some great deals on the S2000.
According to Hagerty's valuation tool, a base model S2000 from 2000 is worth around $24,000, but this can rise quite significantly if you are looking for one of the more advanced newer S2000s like the 2009 CR model. These are worth almost double at around $45,000. However, if you are looking for a newer base version of the S2K, most standard models after 2000 are still only worth an extra $1,000 or so than the earliest model.
9 Year And Model Differences
Although visually, most S2000s look fairly similar, it's underneath where most differences can be found. The first-gen AP1 models from 1999-2003 were given the famous 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine which revved to a monumental 9000 rpm.
The second-generation AP2 models stayed in production until 2009 and came with a slightly larger capacity engine at 2.2 liters, whilst remaining at 240 hp like the generation before. Crucially, the redline was lowered to 8200 rpm in an attempt to increase drivability. In 2008, Honda released the CR version, meaning Club Racing. This model was given stiffer suspension and was factory tuned to improve on-track performance. Most notably, the CR model was given that large rear wing too.
8 Performance And Speed
As one of the best Hondas of all time, it's no surprise that the S2000 is rising in value, and its performance is a huge chunk of the reason why.
For a roadster, the S2000 is one of the best in its class, being able to hit 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds, all the way to a top speed of slightly over 150 mph. The CR model is slightly faster, being able to hit around 160 mph with a similar 0-60 mph time as the base model.
7 Handling And Driving Feel
Naturally, as a roadster, the S2000 is best suited when it comes to corners, despite having a good top speed too. The car is not necessarily the easiest to drive but is rewarding for those who can master it. Part of the reason the S2000 is so well-balanced is because of its perfect 50:50 weight distribution.
The earlier models are said to be a little twitchy and that's because, over time, Honda refined the S2000 somewhat, adding things like stability control to help improve driver experience. Regardless of spec, however, the S2000 is sure to provide nothing but thrills, which is why it's often seen as a competitor to the famous Mazda MX-5, even if it does pack more power.
6 Interior Quality
Regardless of what car you end up buying, having a comfortable and welcoming interior is essential for something you'll be using day in and day out.
The S2000's interior isn't exactly barren, however, there aren't the typical luxuries you'll find on more modern vehicles. The interior is comfortable enough, but expect to see plenty of plastic and lower-quality materials around the cabin. Naturally, as a sports car, especially one from the late 90s, there have been compromises inside to make up for the performance and driving feel. However, this interior is about standard for what you'd find on any Japanese roadster or sports car from this period.
5 Engine And Fuel Efficiency
Because the Honda is driver-focused, the engine and fuel efficiency could lead to some issues for certain buyers.
Earlier models came with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder VTEC engine, with later models coming with a 2.2-liter variant as we discussed earlier. As a sports car, the S2000 isn't keeping up with the Tesla's of the modern-day but expect around 24 mpg combined for a later AP1 S2000. For comparison, a smaller-engined 1.8-liter Mazda MX-5 from 2000 makes roughly 27 mpg, which is what can be gained from a smaller engine.
4 Tech And Infotainment
Again, it seems harsh to compare the S2000 by modern standards, but the tech on display is fairly out of date in today's market.
Still, there is everything you need like cruise control, a digital instrument panel, power windows and mirrors, and even a keyless entry system. Entertainment comes solely from an AM/FM stereo CD player, and that's about it. Regardless of this, the S2000 is still incredibly functional, but it certainly shows signs of its age when it comes to the tech department especially.
3 Customization Possibilities
One reason you may want to opt for an S2000 is the possibility of having a project car or something you can at least mod a little.
Typically, being Japanese, there's a huge market for these sorts of upgrades, and popular mods include suspension systems, intakes, exhausts, and wheels. One area that is improved most of all is the stereo system, which can easily be replaced by something a little more up to date. Visually, there's a range of body kits and wings available for the S2000 if you really want to look the part. Generally, the S2000 makes a great project car.
2 Reliability And Known Issues
Reliability is a huge strong point for Honda, and the S2000 is said to be as reliable as any Honda on the road. Despite its age, the S2000 holds up well from a reliability standpoint. Expect your typical tire and oil changes, but as far as things that aren't routinely done on most cars, you should have nothing to worry about.
Naturally, newer models of the S2000 like AP2s from 2009 will usually be in better condition than the late 90s or early 2000s variants. Beware, however, if you need something like an engine rebuild, this can cost around $9,000, although this may only be necessary on rare occasions.
1 Practicality
Living with the S2000 should be like living with any roadster, but this isn't a bad thing. Obviously, seating could be a problem if you require more than 2, but as far as rear cargo space goes, the S2000 is one of the better from similar shaped and sized roadsters.
Inside, however, there's very little cabin storage which could cause issues and some buyers say the soft-top roof can sometimes be a little fiddly to put up. It also has great statistics in crash testing too, making it very safe for a car of this nature, especially for its time.
Sources: Hagerty, Encycarpedia, Fastest Laps, Top Gear, Auto Data, Honda News, S2KI, Motorbiscuit, Parkers