The Honda S2000 was released in celebration of the manufacturer’s 50^th birthday. It compares quite well against alternatives such as the Porsche Boxster, particularly in terms of driver’s enjoyment and performance. The vehicle is powered by a 2.0-litre VTEC engine that delivers amazing power without having to employ a turbocharger; although you’ll have to work a bit harder for it to arrive at its maximum performance. Handling is also top notch due to its immense grip and sharp steering.

Pros

The S2000’s powerful engine is a four-cylinder unit at 240bhp. Expect its rawness to require an extra push as you rev hard, but the car is able to deliver for the most part as it goes around town. Once you go beyond 6000rpm, the vehicle becomes entirely different and the VTEC engine pushes itself into exhilaration. Arrival at 62mph from standstill will just take 6.2 seconds. Handling is impressive enough for everyday driving and the ride firm along smooth road conditions. In 2002 and 2004, the S2000 was revised so that the chassis delivered enhanced high speed control and firmer suspension. The revision also included bigger 17-inch alloy wheels for increased grip. A stability control system was also added among the options, allowing the S2000 to drive better along less ideal road conditions.

The semi-electric folding roof is a breeze to operate and the boot quite large given that the S2000 is a two-seater vehicle. The cockpit is snug and supportive for the driver, while your driving remains gentle even when the roof is down. Sports seats provide more than enough support along long journeys. The removable hard top allows for a warmer environment come winter and a quieter ambience when you’re driving along the motorway. Main controls are practically positioned close to the steering wheel.

Cons

Unfortunately the cabin tends to be cramped for taller drivers. The only advantage is the sporty feel is provides from the gear level’s high position and the seating’s low slung angle. Although the seats are especially supportive on long journeys, the steering column cannot be adjusted according to the appropriate driving position.

The S2000’s 2.0-litre is still rather raw and requires an extra tap for it to go into maximum performance. And although the high revs are impressive along open roads, you can’t expect the same level comfort and noise insulation along busier streets. It will tend to get distracted along the more difficult road conditions.

The cockpit also fails to block off exhaust and engine noise. And although the roof can be folded, it tends to be awkward once you release the two catches. Expect some man-handling to get the proper adjustment. The boot also has a problem fitting in bigger suitcases and has a rather awkward shape that requires serious consideration before laying out luggage. Unlike other vehicles, the S2000 does not include detachable pouches or tiny door pockets for extra storage. The boot space also doesn’t include a glovebox.

Standard equipment in the S2000 is generally complete and includes electric windows, an electric roof, leather steering wheel, roll over bars, alloy wheels, airbags, just to name a few.

Designed by Shigeru Uehara, the Honda S2000 is a special roadster model because it was created in time to celebrate the Japanese automobile manufacturer’s 50^th anniversary. Launched in 1999, the S2000 is a two-door roadster with an FMR layout in production until 2009. As a concept, the S2000 was unveiled in 1995 at the Tokyo Motor Show, named after a two-litre engine displacement much the tradition of roadsters back in the day like the S800, S600, and S500.

Until the Ferrari 458 came along, the S2000 was the record-holder for the highest horsepower for every litre for a NA piston road production vehicle. The S2000 held this record 10 years. Over the years that it was in production, the S2000 underwent several revisions, including engine and suspension changes, gearbox upgrades, and interior and exterior overhauls. There are two official variants to the S200: the AP1 and AP2. The AP1 refers to the initial launch model, while the AP2 is used for cars produced starting mid-2003.

In 2009, the Honda S2000 was released with a limited version model packing a 2.0 litre 240PS 9000 rpm VTEC engine just for the European market to commemorate the end of the car’s production. Unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show, the S2000 Ultimate Edition also include a removable hard top, Grand Prix White-coloured body, red leather in the interiors, and graphite-coloured alloy wheels.