Top S2000 Modifications: From Daily Driver to Track Beast
The S2000 has a thriving aftermarket because the factory car is already close to ideal. Most worthwhile modifications enhance what's already there rather than correcting deficiencies.
The Modification Philosophy
Before modifying any S2000, accept this: the stock S2000 is fast. A properly set up, well-driven stock AP1 will humble many modified cars. Mods should address specific goals, not just add parts.
Good reasons to modify:
- Reduce lap times at a specific track
- Improve handling for your driving style
- Increase reliability/durability for track use
- Customize for appearance
Poor reasons to modify:
- "More power is always better" (the S2000 already has excellent power-to-weight)
- Fixing problems that don't exist
- Compensating for driving limitations
Stage 0: Maintenance First
Before any performance modifications, ensure:
- Fresh oil with the correct viscosity
- Timing chain tensioner in good condition
- Fresh brake fluid
- Correct tire pressure
- Valve clearances within spec
- Fresh spark plugs
A well-maintained stock S2000 will outperform a modified neglected one.
Suspension / Handling Modifications
Coilovers (Most Impactful Handling Mod)
A quality set of coilovers transforms the S2000's handling:
- Adjustable ride height
- Adjustable damping
- Lower center of gravity
- Better body motion control
Recommended:
- Street/occasional track: Tein Flex Z, KW Variant 2, BC Racing BR Series
- Dedicated track: Ohlins Road & Track, KW Variant 3, MCA Sport
Budget entry: Tein or BC Racing (~$600–1,000)
Premium: Ohlins, KW Variant 3 (~$1,500–2,500)
Sway Bars
Increasing sway bar diameter reduces body roll, giving a flatter cornering attitude. The front sway bar is the more impactful change for the S2000:
Recommended:
- Whiteline, Progress Group, or Seibon front sway bar (25–27mm front)
- Rear sway bar optional — adds understeer if too stiff
Alignment and Camber Plates
If lowering more than 1", front camber plates allow proper alignment:
- Enables -2°+ front camber for track use
- Reduces alignment uncertainty
- Allows fine-tuning without major suspension disassembly
Intake and Exhaust
Cold Air Intake
A well-designed CAI routes cooler, denser air to the intake:
- Gains: modest (5–10 hp) but noticeable sound difference
- The induction sound with a quality CAI is genuinely addictive
Recommended: AEM V2 CAI, Injen SP CAI
Header (Exhaust Manifold)
The factory exhaust manifold is restrictive on the F20C/F22C:
- 4-2-1 headers are widely fitted (mild power and sound improvement)
- 4-1 headers maximize top-end power but reduce low-end torque
Recommended:
- Street: Toda Racing, Skunk2, OBX 4-2-1
- Track: Toda Racing, ARK 4-1
Catback Exhaust
Completes the exhaust system from the catalytic converter back:
- Weight reduction vs stock
- Sound improvement
- Small power gain (combined with header)
Recommended: Megan Racing OE-RS, Buddy Club, ARK DT-S
Brakes
For track use specifically:
- Brake fluid: Upgrade to Motul 660 or ATE Type 200 (DOT 4 track fluid)
- Pads: Hawk HP Plus or DTC-60 for track days
- Stainless brake lines: Firmer pedal feel, less expansion under heat
Power Adders (Supercharger / Turbo)
The S2000 responds well to forced induction, but the complexity and cost is significant:
- Comptech/Jackson Racing supercharger: Clean install, modest power gain (+40–60 hp), high cost
- Turbo: More power potential but significant complexity
If choosing forced induction, budget for:
- Supporting tune (no canned tunes)
- Supporting fuel system
- Upgraded cooling
- Appropriate clutch for power level
Honest advice: Track-prepared naturally aspirated S2000s are frequently faster than poorly tuned forced induction cars. Know your goal.