How Does the S2000 Stack Up Against the 2023 Miata?

Still Valid?

The Honda S2000 and Mazda Miata (or MX-5) have been compared since the day the two began competing against each other, and even though the S2000 was discontinued years ago, people are still doing precisely that today. Some may call that a bit silly - Honda's roadster is at a bit of a disadvantage right off the bat due to its age - but it's a legitimate question for someone in the market for a small, sporty drop top. As such, we were particularly interested in this recent comparison conducted by Motor Biscuit.

Photos: S2Ki Forums

Shapes and Sizes

As our reviewer points out, these two cars are more similar than one might think, aside from their basic profiles and purpose. His own personal Laguna Blue 2008 S2000 still gets a lot of looks and positive comments, and he also enjoyed his fair share of praise while cruising around in the new MX-5 as well. As he points out, however, the S2000 is actually larger than the Mazda, which is an interesting footnote.

Photos: Mazda

Showing Your Age

Hop inside the cabin, and you'll begin to notice the 25-year age gap between these two cars, as one might imagine. The S2000's interior has, in all fairness, held up better than most cars from this era and is very driver-focused. On the flip side, the MX-5's cabin is a bit more "robust," with modern infotainment and the latest tech features, as well as comfy and supportive Recaro seats in this case.

Photos: S2Ki Forums

Road Noise

Out on the road, both of these cars are a little stiff and noisy, which is to be expected for a sporty convertible. In terms of interior noise, however, the MX-5 was a bit quieter around town, with decibel readings in the 70s compared to the S2000's 80-decibel readings, but both cars hovered in the 90 range out on the highway.

Photos: Mazda

Power Game

When it comes to sheer power, however, the S2000 handily beats out the Mazda in this case with 237 horsepower versus 181. As our reviewer notes, you can feel that difference in the upper RPM range, with the Miata being geared more toward making its power at the low end. Suspension-wise, the MX-5 is a bit softer as well, though both cars proved to be a good time carving up twisty roads.

Photos: S2Ki Forums

Points of Contention

There are many other bones to pick here, including the fact that the S2000 has a power top, while the MX-5's is manually operated. Our reviewer also prefers the S2000's shifter and the way it feels - and he notes that it's the best shifter of any car he's driven, too.

Photos: Mazda

>>Join the conversation about S2000 vs. Miata right here at S2Ki.com.

Easy Win

At the end of the day, the S2000 is the clear winner here, though our reviewer notes that those seeking a little more practicality might want to take a look at the MX-5 - it is a bit more comfortable and has a softer ride, making it a solid choice for daily commutes. But if you're just looking for the most rewarding driving experience period, the S2000 still reigns supreme.

Photos: S2Ki Forums

>>Join the conversation about S2000 vs. Miata right here at S2Ki.com.