The Honda S2000 stands as one of the most celebrated sports cars of its era—a machine born from Honda's 50th anniversary ambitions and engineered without compromise. Produced from 1999 to 2009, it became a benchmark for driver-focused roadster design.
Honda's SSM (Sport Study Model) concept debuted at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show, previewing a lightweight rear-wheel-drive roadster with a mid-mounted engine. The production S2000 retained the spirit but moved the engine to a conventional front-mid position—ahead of the front axle centerline—for optimal 50/50 weight distribution.
Honda engineers set three objectives:
They succeeded on all three counts.
The first-generation S2000 (chassis code AP1) launched in Japan on April 15, 1999—exactly Honda's 50th birthday. North American sales began in late 1999 as a 2000 model year.
Key AP1 specifications:
The F20C produced 120 hp per liter—the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated production engine at the time. VTEC engagement at around 6,000 rpm transforms the character of the car entirely.
The AP2 brought Honda's response to criticism that the AP1 demanded too much of its driver. Changes included:
The AP2 is generally considered more approachable but slightly less characterful than the AP1.
Honda's final S2000 offering stripped weight and added track-focused hardware:
The CR is the most collectible variant and commands a significant premium.
Honda ceased S2000 production in June 2009 after approximately 110,000 units worldwide. The official reason cited changing market conditions; the S2000 was never given a true successor, leaving enthusiasts waiting for a follow-up that never came.
The S2000 is regularly cited alongside the Mazda MX-5, Lotus Elise, and Porsche Boxster as defining roadsters of their generation. Values have climbed steadily since production ended, particularly for low-mileage examples and CR variants.
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