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2000-2009
The S2000 is Honda's masterpiece — a front-midship, naturally aspirated, 9,000-RPM roadster that was designed from the ground up as a sports car. The F20C engine in the AP1 (2000-2003) revs to an absurd 9,000 RPM redline, producing 240 hp from just 2.0 liters — the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated production engine of its era. The AP2 (2004-2009) traded 200 RPM of redline for a broader torque curve, which most track drivers consider the better tradeoff. On track, the S2000 is a precision instrument. The steering is electrically-boosted hydraulic and retains excellent feel and weight. The car changes direction instantly, the brakes are strong, and the close-ratio 6-speed gearbox snicks between gears with a mechanical perfection that makes every shift satisfying. The LSD (on all models) ensures clean corner exits. The challenge is that the S2000 demands respect. The car has a razor-sharp limit with minimal warning — one moment the rear tires are gripping, the next they are gone. The AP1 is especially snappy in oversteer, and many new S2000 track drivers have experienced the sudden moment when the car rotates faster than their hands can correct. The AP2's revised rear suspension is more progressive, but the car still requires a level of smoothness and precision that many drivers need time to develop.
The S2000 is unforgiving. The limit comes suddenly and without the progressive buildup that a Miata provides. New track drivers in S2000s spin more than in any other common track car because the car demands precision that beginners have not yet developed. The rising collector value makes every track incident a potential $10,000+ mistake. Parts are becoming scarce and expensive. And the convertible layout, while fun for cruising, adds complexity and reduces rigidity for serious track use — you really need a hardtop and a cage to get the most from the chassis, and that adds significant cost and eliminates the open-air experience.
Minimal prep needed — the S2000 is nearly track-ready from the factory.
Modifications
Total Estimate
$400 – $1.3K
Master braking, throttle, and steering inputs for your Honda S2000.