The classic sports car formula was well-established by the 1950s. The Italians and Americans had their versions in the form of Ferraris - opens in new window or tab. and Corvettes - opens in new window or tab.. And Britain’s automakers—Austin-Healey - opens in new window or tab., Jaguar - opens in new window or tab., Jensen - opens in new window or tab., Lotus - opens in new window or tab., MG - opens in new window or tab., and Triumph - opens in new window or tab.—dominated the burgeoning market for two-seat, front-engine, rear-drive roadsters - opens in new window or tab.. But it all came crashing down in the 1970s.
Financial crises, high oil prices, British labor unrest, and safety regulations conspired against those English roadsters. It would take another generation, and a revitalized Japanese economy, to produce the Mazda Miata - opens in new window or tab.—a faithful but more reliable rendition of the beloved Lotus Elan - opens in new window or tab..
Meanwhile, around the turn of the century, Honda unveiled the S2000, its take on the classic roadster. This car used lessons from Honda’s heritage in motorcycles and F1 race cars to add a unique flavor to the classic roadster.
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A Sky-High Redline
Honda started as a motorcycle manufacturer in Japan but eventually migrated from small runabouts to racing bikes. These powerful, lightweight machines revved to astronomical rpm to produce power for the displacement-limited racing classes. As such, Honda had plenty of experience building engines that could safely reach high revolutions.
All the thrills, with no frills
Honda introduced the S2000 for the 2000 model year. The two-liter roadster had a 9,000 rpm rev limit. Later models had a slightly larger 2.2-liter four-cylinder that topped out at 8,200 rpm. Considering that most high-performance engines run out of breath over 6000 rpm, the S2000’s performance (and sound) was thrilling.
AP2 Instrumentation.
Depending on the model year, the S2000 produces around 240 horsepower, which is plenty to move the roughly 2,800-pound sports car. Handling is another high point. The S2000 remains a trendy car for racing, autocross - opens in new window or tab., and canyon carving. Following sports car tradition, Honda never offered the S2000 with an automatic transmission.
AP1 vs. AP2—A Debate Rages On
AP1 S2000s have round factory exhaust tips.
Find any internet forum or social media platform where car fanatics gather, and you’re sure to encounter a heated discussion on AP1 versus AP2. These codes denote the two distinct generations of the Honda S2000, with devotees shouting the praises of their preferred Honda flavor.
AP2 S2000s have oval-shaped factory exhaust tips.
It takes a keen eye to spot differences because the chassis and styling didn’t change much over the near decade the S2000 was in production.
- The AP1 (2000-2003 model years) used a 2.0 -liter engine with a 9,000 rpm redline. Its slightly lighter weight and firmer suspension offered a ride that could be tricky in abrupt maneuvers.
- The AP2 (2004-2009 model years) was equipped with a 2.2-liter engine with an 8,200 rpm redline. The slightly heavier, softer suspension is less twitchy in corners.
Which is better? Drive them both, and you decide. Or better yet, start with either one and make modifications. The Honda aftermarket is immense, with a knowledgeable community happy to advise on turning a wrench to make the best custom S2000.
The Honda S2000 Today
AP2s give up a bit of top end, but gain drivability.
Sadly, the S2000 went away in 2009, and there was no direct replacement. The Miata, Pontiac Solstice - opens in new window or tab., and Saturn Sky - opens in new window or tab. were much less expensive though less powerful. At the same time, upmarket models like the Porsche Boxster - opens in new window or tab. and BMW Z3 - opens in new window or tab./Z4 - opens in new window or tab. had more power, luxury features, and brand cachet.
That means today’s values for an S2000 have held steady, selling for nearly what they would have cost new. But for many Honda enthusiasts, nothing else will do.
eBay Motors has a variety of S2000s at all price points—with the parts and accessories to make it your own. Many of these fair-weather convertibles didn’t clock a lot of miles. So finding one in excellent condition is quite feasible. Savvy buyers will think ahead to spring and put an S2000 in the garage during the driving off-season.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.