Honda S2000
Honda S2000 is a roadster class car manufactured by Honda Motor Company. The car was first launched on April 1999 and celebrated Honda’s 50th anniversary. S2000 is based on the Honda SSM concept car unveiled in 1995 at the Tokyo Motor Show. The SSM concept car had a 2.0 liter inline-4 engine and featured a button starter and a division between the driver and the passenger. After several years as a concept car, Honda revealed its plans to make a production car out of the SSM. After Honda’s tradition, the new model was named Honda S2000.
The first S2000 was unveiled in 1999 for the 2000 model year. The car featured a powerful F20C inline 4 cylinder DOHC-VTEC engine. The engine had 1,997 cc (122 cubic inches) and produced 240 hp (179 kW) at 8,300 rpm and 153 ft-lbf (207 Nm) at 7,500 rpm. The car featured rear wheel drive and a weight distribution of 50/50. European versions were slightly less powerful at 237 hp (177 kW), while the Japanese models were a little more powerful, with 247 hp (184 kW) at 8,600 rpm. This difference appeared because of a small setting on the compression ratio. Honda S2000 had a 6-speed manual transmission and a Torsen limited slip differential. Because of the sport nature of the engine, the S2000 provided 123.5 hp (92 kW) per liter. When it appeared, the roadster had a rigid X-bone monocoque frame. Honda explained that this type of frame will improve passenger safety and maneuverability. The standard version also included independent double wishbone suspension, electrically-assisted steering, and integrated roll hoops. The engine was mounted entirely behind the front axle and provides a 50/50 rear/front weight distribution. The rotational inertia is also lowered. The standard model featured an electrically powered vinyl top with internal cloth lining.
The 2001 model remained the same as the 2000 model. However, in the 2002 model year, some of the suspension settings were greatly revised. A smaller glass rear windscreen was introduced. A glass window replaced the plastic rear window and an electric defroster was also added. The taillamps were slightly revised and the car received an upgraded stereo system. The engine control unit (ECU) was also revised. The 2003 model remained unchanged. Regarding the fuel economy, the Honda S2000 has very good reviews. Fuel economy figures, as published by Honda UK, are 20.6 mpg (imp) (7.3 km/l) in the city, 28.2 mpg (imp) (10.0 km/l) combined, and 35.3 mpg (imp) (12.5 km/l) on the highway.
The 2004 model suffered modifications to its chassis among other. The new model had the new 17 inch (43 cm) wheels and Bridgestone RE-050 tires. The suspension was also tuned so that the car’s tendency to oversteer is greatly reduced. The shock absorber damping was modified, just like the suspension geometry. These changes improved stability by reducing toe-in changes under cornering loads. Besides these interior changes, some cosmetic changes were also made on the exterior of the car. These include new front and rear bumpers, revised headlight assemblies, new LED tail-lights, and a pair of oval-tipped exhausts.
The 2006 model featured a drive by wire throttle and a brand new Vehicle Stability Assist system. The roadster had new wheels and some new interior changes, like revised seats, some additional speakers integrated into the headrests, and additional headrest padding. The 2007 model remained the same as the 2006 model.
The 2008 model year was the first year in which the Honda S2000 came in several trims. Honda offered a new version of the S2000, featuring reduced weight, fewer amenities, and an increase in overall performance. This model is called Honda S2000 CR (Type-S in Japan).
If you are a sports car fan, the Honda S2000 is the perfect car for you. It features a very good power output, high fuel efficiency, and extraordinary performances. The car comes cheap for a sport car, at just 34,300$ (36,300$ for the S2000 CR) base price.
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