The Honda S2000 has an extraordinary merge of head-turning ability with its conservative looks. The car looks long and sleek with low bonnet. In everyday driving, the S2000 is rather passive and easy to drive with a smooth ride on all but the harshest of road surfaces.
The interior of the S2000 looks well engineered. The seats are supportive and strong. The major concern for S2000 buyers would be the lack of space the interior offers. There is almost no trunk storage. The boot is very small and more cramped. Honda has created a driver-focussed feel to the interior, and most of the audio and heater controls can be operated without the driver having to take their hands off the steering wheel. The roof is tricky to operate, with two clips either side of the windscreen which have to be released, moved and replaced before the roof can fold electrically.
The S2000 has a superb engine. This is the biggest strength for this car. The four-cylinder unit is the most powerful non-turbocharged 2.0-litre around, producing 240bhp. The steering wheel is easy to control on twisted road. This
Honda car scored four out of five stars in the EuroNCAP crash tests, which is reasonable for a small roadster.
The S2000 doesn’t crash over potholes or hunt around in the road, instead tracking ahead to your chosen line – the steering feel is nicely weighted and communicative, but never becomes tiresome or unwieldy.
The
Honda S2000 rivals include Audi TT, BMW Z4 and Mercedes Benz SLK. Honda S2000 remains popular because of its incredible engine which gives its drivers a motorbike driving feel. Though it lacks the low-speed cruising ability of the BMW Z4, it still hits back with a purist punch, making for a more focused sports car.
