Honda S2000

Honda S2000
2005 Honda S2000 (AP2)
Overview
ManufacturerHonda
Production1999–2009 (110,673 produced)
DesignerShigeru Uehara (1995)
Body and chassis
ClassSports car (S)
Body style2-door roadster / Detachable hardtop
LayoutFront mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Chronology
PredecessorHonda S800

The Honda S2000 is a front-mid engine open top sports car that was manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Honda, from 1999 until 2009. First shown as a concept car called the SSM at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, the production version was launched on April 15, 1999, to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary. The S2000 is named for its engine displacement of two litres, while "S" stood for "sports" carrying on in the tradition of the S500, S600, and S800 roadsters of the 1960s.

Several revisions were made throughout the car's production life, including changes to the engine, gearbox, suspension, interior and exterior. Officially two variants exist: the initial launch model was given the chassis code AP1; though cosmetically similar, the facelifted version, known as the AP2 in North America and Japan, incorporated significant changes to the drivetrain and suspension. Production of the S2000 ceased on August 19, 2009.

The Honda S2000 was notable for its exceptional specific power output of about 92 kW (124 hp) per litre, or about two horsepower per cubic inch, the highest of any mass production, naturally aspirated engined car, until 2010.

The S2000 has seen a significant appreciation in price for valued examples in good condition. The most sought-after models are special edition models such as the CR (Club Racer) in the USA market.