The Honda S2000 is a car built with a singular focus: the driver. It’s a “greatest hits” of Honda’s engineering prowess, combining a high-revving naturally aspirated engine with a balanced chassis to create one of the purest driving experiences ever produced. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the S2000 a modern legend.
The Heart: F20C and F22C Engines
The S2000’s engine is arguably its most celebrated feature. Honda created two distinct engines for the S2000 during its production run:
Specific Output
The original AP1 S2000’s F20C engine achieved record-breaking specific output:
- 120-124 hp per liter for a naturally aspirated engine
- 240 hp from just 2.0 liters
- Redline at 9,000 RPM
This specific output was unmatched by any other production naturally aspirated engine at the time, and remained at the top of the charts for years.
Sky-High Redline
The F20C’s 9,000 RPM redline was enabled by several advanced features:
- Forged pistons for strength at high RPM
- Robust valvetrain with titanium connecting rods
- Precision-balanced rotating assembly
- Individual throttle bodies for each cylinder
The engine’s willingness to rev was matched by its linear power delivery, making the entire RPM range usable and exciting.
VTEC Explained
Honda’s VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system provided both low-RPM tractability and a thrilling high-RPM powerband:
- Dual-cam profile system with different lift and duration settings
- “VTEC engagement” around 5,500-6,000 RPM provided a noticeable power surge
- Low-profile cams for everyday driveability
- High-profile cams for maximum performance
Later AP2 models received the F22C engine with increased displacement and torque, while maintaining the high-revving character.
The Chassis: A Study in Balance
Honda’s engineers focused on creating the perfect balance between performance and usability:
High X-Bone Frame
The S2000’s structure provided exceptional rigidity:
- Provided roadster-like openness with coupe-like rigidity
- Minimized chassis flex for precise handling
- Reduced noise, vibration, and harshness
50/50 Weight Distribution
Honda achieved perfect balance through front-midship engine placement:
- Front-midship configuration moved weight rearward
- 50/50 distribution for neutral, predictable handling
- Low center of gravity for reduced body roll
Suspension
Race-inspired suspension provided exceptional handling:
- In-wheel double wishbone suspension on all four corners
- Aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight
- Adjustable dampers on Type V and V-TEC models
The Driving Experience
The S2000 delivered a raw, unfiltered driving experience:
- Direct, unassisted steering with exceptional feedback
- Rifle-bolt shifter with short, precise throws
- Screaming engine note that rewarded a committed driver
- Minimal sound deadening to enhance the connection to the machine
Conclusion
The Honda S2000 remains a modern legend because it achieved what few other cars have: it combined ultimate driving purity with everyday usability. Its influence can still be felt in Honda’s current sports car offerings, and it continues to set the benchmark for what a lightweight, high-revving sports car should be.
For enthusiasts who value the connection between driver and machine above all else, the S2000 represents the pinnacle of analog sports car design in an increasingly digital automotive world.