The Honda S2000 is a thrilling sports car that offers an exciting driving experience. This Japanese roadster is known for its high-revving engine, sharp handling, and classic design. It’s become a popular modern classic in recent years. This guide will help you understand what makes the S2000 special and where to find good ones for sale.
Key Areas to Check: Used Honda S2000
- Engine and VTEC system performance
- Transmission smoothness and synchro wear
- Chassis condition and signs of accident damage
- Suspension components and bushings
- Convertible soft top integrity
- Interior wear, especially seats and dashboard
- Complete service history documentation
- Extent and quality of any modifications
- Signs of rust in wheel wells and subframe
- Oil consumption rate (up to 1 quart per 3000 miles normal)
A Brief History of the Honda S2000
Honda launched the S2000 in 1999 to celebrate their 50th anniversary. This sports car quickly became famous for its great performance and handling. There were two main versions of the S2000:
- AP1 (1999-2003): Had a 2.0L engine that could rev up to 9,000 RPM and made 240 horsepower. It was very responsive and popular with serious car fans.
- AP2 (2004-2009): Had a slightly bigger 2.2L engine that was easier to drive but still fun. It had some small style changes and improvements inside.
Honda also made some special versions, like the track-focused Club Racer in 2008.
Today, the S2000 is loved by many car enthusiasts and is becoming more valuable as a collector’s item.
Why Purchase a Honda S2000?
The S2000 is special because it offers:
- A high-revving engine that’s really exciting to drive
- A great manual gearbox that’s fun to shift
- Excellent handling that makes curvy roads enjoyable
- Reliable build quality, typical of Honda
- Potential to increase in value over time
- A convertible top for open-air driving
- A timeless design that still looks good today
- Strong support from other S2000 fans and aftermarket parts
What to Check When Purchasing a Used Honda S2000
1. Engine and Transmission
Check these important parts:
- Make sure the VTEC system works smoothly around 6,000 RPM
- Check the oil level and ask about oil consumption
- Test the gears for smooth shifting, especially first and second
- Feel how the clutch works – it shouldn’t slip or engage too high
- Look for unusual engine movement or vibration
2. Body and Suspension
Look out for:
- Signs of accidents like uneven gaps between body panels or mismatched paint
- Worn suspension parts – listen for knocks or clunks when driving
- Uneven tire wear which could mean alignment problems
- Rust, especially near the wheels, under the car, and on the floor
3. Roof and Interior
Check these areas:
- The convertible top for tears, wear, or leaks
- Seat condition, especially the side bolsters
- Dashboard for cracks
- All electronics, including the digital dashboard
4. Service History and Modifications
Look for:
- Regular oil changes and maintenance records
- Be cautious of heavily modified cars
- Check if any recalls were done
Where to Find Honda S2000s for Sale
You can look for S2000s in several places:
1. Specialist Dealerships
- Often have well-maintained cars
- Might offer warranties
- Staff usually know a lot about S2000s
2. Online Marketplaces
- Websites like Carsnip show many S2000s for sale
- Easy to compare prices and conditions
- Can set alerts for specific types of S2000s
3. Enthusiast Forums
- Find cars owned by S2000 fans
- Learn detailed history from current owners
- Get advice from the S2000 community
4. Auction Sites
- Often have very nice, low-mileage S2000s
- Can see detailed descriptions and lots of photos
- Prices might be higher due to competition
5. Private Sellers
- Might find good deals
- Can talk directly to the owner
- Important to check the car carefully
Owning an S2000: What to Expect
Owning an S2000 can be fun, but there are some things to keep in mind:
Regular Maintenance
- Change oil every 7,500 miles or once a year
- Replace brake fluid every 3 years
- Change transmission fluid at 120,000 miles
- Replace coolant every 60,000 miles or 5 years
- Adjust valves every 30,000 miles
Common Repairs
- Soft top might need replacement after 10-15 years
- Clutch might need changing around 60,000-100,000 miles
- Suspension parts might wear out, especially if the car is driven hard
- Rear tires might wear faster than normal
Fuel Economy
The S2000 usually gets about 20 miles per gallon. This can change based on how you drive and where you drive.
Insurance
Insurance for an S2000 might be higher than average because it’s a sports car. The cost depends on things like your age, where you live, and how you use the car.
Average Annual Costs of Owning a Honda S2000
Fuel
Insurance
Maintenance
Repairs
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect S2000
The Honda S2000 is a special car that offers a pure and exciting driving experience. When looking for Honda S2000 for sale, focus on finding a well-maintained example with a good service history. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions.
Joining S2000 forums or clubs can be really helpful. You’ll get advice from other owners and might even find a great car for sale. Whether you want a fun weekend car, a track day toy, or a future classic to collect, the S2000 could be perfect for you.
Owning an S2000 is more than just having a car – it’s joining a passionate community and experiencing one of the most enjoyable drives out there. With patience and care in your search, you’ll find the right S2000 that will bring you years of top-down, high-revving fun.
