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IntroductionsMake your introductions to the S2000 owner community. Discussions and comments from new and future S2000 owners. You will get a warm welcome, friendly and helpful advice. The 'Start Button' of the forums.
The original Honda S2000 went on sale in 1999 as a 2000 model. It was based on the earlier SSM (Sports Study Model) concept car. For the early history of the SSM and S: https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=336743
Note that the original years (00-03) saw the chassis code AP1 mated to the engine F20C worldwide, but after 2004, when the updated F22C was introduced in certain markets, the chassis updated to AP2. In North America, this is most commonly seen where 00-03 are called AP1 and 04+ are called AP2, but worldwide, AP1 continued to be the available chassis.
When Honda designers and engineers began work on the S2000, they set several overall design goals for it that would ultimately define its nature. They wanted it to have race-car-like performance and handling-- something an enthusiast driver could use and enjoy, even in everyday driving situations. In addition, they wanted the S2000 to be a modern, socially responsible automobile, with low emissions and a full range of safety features.
The S2000 is based on the Honda SSM concept car that first appeared at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show, with follow-up appearances at the Chicago and German shows, where it was enthusiastically received. The S2000 uses the same basic front-engine/rear-wheel-drive, 2-seat roadster layout as the SSM. This classic drivetrain configuration is highly regarded for its performance and enjoyable driving characteristics.
The S2000's roadster layout also captures the spirit of the legendary high-performance sports cars of the past, as well as Honda's very first sports car, the S500 roadster. However, the S2000 makes no attempt to be a retro sports car. It is Honda's own unique interpretation of a modern sports car-- with high performance, state-of-the-art technology, comfort, style and Honda durability.
After initial design studies for the S2000 were completed, several prototype S2000s were constructed. Honda engineers then took these prototypes to Europe, where more than 20,000 miles of testing were conducted in order to "mature" the design. During the maturing phase of the design, the S2000's handling, ride, aerodynamics and performance were refined, as well as styling. Cockpit details, such as seating, visibility and control layout were also finalized during this phase of development.
• 2.0-liter (1,997 cc), DOHC VTEC engine
• Power: SAE and 179 kW , 240 HP @ 8,300 rpm; 153 ft lb , 208 Nm @ 7,500 rpm (highest specific output of any normally aspirated production engine in the world)
• 50/50 weight distribution
• Fuel economy EPA highway: 20/26 (9L / km), on premium unleaded fuel
• Multi-Point Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Direct ignition system
• Low-back pressure exhaust system with high-efficiency catalyst
• Low-Emission Vehicle-rated (LEV)
Handling
• Limited slip differential
• Spacesaver steel rim internal spare wheel
• 6-speed, close-ratio, manual transmission
• Torque-sensing limited-slip differential
• Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
• High-rigidity "high X-bone frame"
• In-wheel double wishbone suspension with gas-filled shock absorbers and front and rear stabilizer bars
• Wishbone front and rear suspension with stabilizer bar independent with coil springs
• Electric Power Steering system (EPS)
• Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering
Exterior:
• Softtop electric convertible roof with 7 second operation (fastest in production)
• External dimensions: overall length (mm): 4,120, overall width (mm): 1,750, overall height (mm): 1,285, wheelbase (mm): 2,400, front track (mm): 1,471, rear track (mm): 1,509 and curb to curb turning circle (mm): 10,790
• Two-part projector beam lens Xenon bulb headlights
• Luxury trim alloy on gearknob
• Chrome tipped exhaust
• Plastic rear window
• Weights: curb weight (kg) 1,274
• Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tires - designed specifically for the S2000
• 16-inch alloy wheels (6.5-inch-wide front/7.5-inch-wide rear)
• 205/55 R16 89W front tires
• 215/50 R16 92W rear tires2
Interior:
• Immobilizer for security
• Dual airbags (SRS)
• Air conditioning
• Micron air-filtration system
• AM/FM stereo with CD player with fixed mast antenna
• Audio anti-theft protection: concealable
• Honda-sourced 2-speaker audio system
• Remote-operated audio controls
• Power windows
• Power door locks
• Cruise control
• Digital instrument panel
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Center console storage compartments with lock
• Beverage holder
• 3-point seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter
• Engine start button (not backlit)
• Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System
• Keyless entry system for doors and trunk
• Cargo capacity: all seats in place (liters): 142
• Internal dimensions: front headroom (mm): 879, front hip room (mm): 1,275, front leg room
(mm): 1,125 and front shoulder room (mm): 1,265
Dealer-installed options:
• Wind deflector (standard in later years)
• Floor mats (standard in later years)
Original Colors:
� Berlina Black / Black interior
� New Formula Red / Black interior
� Silverstone Silver Metallic / Black interior
� Spa Yellow / Black interior
Changes in 2001:
Interior:
• Clock now standard in the radio (original S2000s have no clock)
• Floormats now standard
• Wind deflector now standard
• Emergency trunk release added
Colors:
� Berlina Black / Black interior / Red interior
� New Formula Red / Black interior
� Silverstone Silver Metallic / Black interior / Red interior
� Spa Yellow / Black interior
� Grand Prix White / Red interior
Factory accessories:
• Front lip
• Rear spoiler
• Hard top
• Side strakes
As a design theme, Honda added "metallic accents" to the car inside and out.
Interior:
� Stereo gained digital bass/treble/fade/bal controls
� Stereo now has a silver faceplate from black
� Stereo now 30W/ch, up from 20W/ch
� Door speakers changed from paper cones to blue plastic
� Two additional speakers added in the doors - tweeters
� The shift knob now aluminium and wrapped leather
� Shift knowb weighted - now heavier
� Black interior trim around the IP changed to dark grey (metallic look) plastic from black plastic
� Metal rings added to the interior door panel pulls
� The tonneu cover changed. There is only 1 clip on the each side to push in from underneth. Reportedly it is easier to attach and doesn't appear to 'flap' up like previous design
� Heat and A/C fan are more powerful. The 2nd and 3rd fan speeds are noticeably more effective
� The cupholder cover and trash hole behind it are textured plastic as opposed to the same untextured earlier ones
� The dead-pedal is now metal/rubber and matches the other pedals
� A leather console cover replaces the carpet console cover
� The soft-top now has a glass window and rear-defroster in place of the original plastic window
� The buttons for the defroster and cruse-control on switches are a different shape
� The new window defrost button is the cruise control on the right side of the steering wheel
� The tach indicator line is now white and the scale connected by a solid white arc line
� A second post has been added to the carpeted floor mats to secure them
� Very small storage pockets were added to the doors
� Metal placard on door sills slightly revised
Exterior:
� The shade of wheels are a slightly darker silver with a little more metallic-flake
� Chrome rings added to the tail-lights
� There is a small subtle change in the trunk lid shape at the rear, near the trunk brake light. Reportedly this was to meet the Federal safety standard measurements
� The outside Honda badges are larger
� Paint color changes were made. In the US, Sebring Silver replaced Silverstone Metallic (the newer is a brighter silver). Suzuka Blue Metallic was added
Chassis:
� The front sway bar was reportedly reduced slightly in size.
Engine:
� ECU reprogrammed - 02-03 S2000s typically make ~10 more whp than 00-01s
� Oil banjo bolts upgraded
� Transmission "improved" (stated by Honda) for shifting
Colors:
For 2002, a striking new "Suzuka Blue" exterior color with blue interior joins Spa Yellow, Grand Prix White, Formula Red and Berlina Black. "Sebring Silver" will also join the S2000's color palate, replacing Silverstone Metallic.
� Berlina Black / Black interior / Red interior
� New Formula Red / Black interior
� Sebring Silver Metallic / Red interior / Black interior
� Grand Prix White / Red interior
� Spa Yellow Pearl / Black interior
� Suzuka Blue / Blue interior
The new glass window top:
2002 Suzuka interior, with grey bezels around IP, new door speakers, leather center console:
OEM hard top, new for 2002:
Constructed of lightweight aluminum, the hardtop includes a large glass rear window with a defogger and a simple attachment process. The top provides both reduced interior noise and an aggressive new look to one of the sportiest cars on the market. Available in all factory S2000 colors, the top can be fitted to 2000, 2001 and 2002 model year S2000s.
Honda produces the hardtop at the Tochigi, Japan, manufacturing plant (where the S2000 is produced.) Honda uses the same manufacturing and painting processes as used on the S2000 factory line to insure the highest quality and factory-look finish possible. The hardtop weighs 44 lbs. and can be installed by the customer. Available now, the hardtop can be ordered at any Honda automobile dealer.
The S2000's exterior features the following colors: Berlina Black, Grand Prix White, New Formula Red, Sebring Silver Metallic, Silverstone Metallic, Spa Yellow and Suzuka Blue Metallic. New for the 2003 is tan added as an interior color for Grand Prix White.
S2000 Roadster Celebrates Honda's Hallmark Racing Spirit
Text Only S2000.doc
12/29/2000 - Torrance, Calif. -
Honda's racing engines have repeatedly visited winner circle's around the world. The 2001 S2000 roadster is no different - a sports car with race-car performance and handling challenging the world's best. New for 2001 is a removable hard-top that will be available by special order beginning in early 2001. In addition, all 2001 S2000's feature new standard equipment including floor mats, an emergency trunk release, an aero wind screen and a clock.
Last year in its first year on the market, the S2000 roadster earned widespread acclaim from the public and press alike. S2000 awards included:
* Car and Driver "10 Best"
* Popular Science "Best of What's New Award"
* American Woman Motorscene "Most Wanted"
* Motor Week's Drivers Choice (TV) "Best Performance Car"
* Ward's Auto World "Best Engines of 2000"
A true driver's car, the S2000 provides an exhilarating driving experience. The S2000 uses a classic, front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports-car configuration. Under the hood, 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder compact engine has the highest output of any normally aspirated production engine in the world.
The engine also meets California's Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. The unmistakable expression of Honda's racing spirit is found in the potent 16-valve, DOHC (dual overhead cam) VTEC (variable valve timing and lift electronic control) engine that moves the S2000 from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds.
Honda's racing expertise is also evident in the S2000's world-class agility. The excellent road manners are the result of an optimum 50/50 weight distribution, racing-inspired in-wheel double wishbone suspension and highly rigid body structure. Marked by the high central tunnel that runs down the center of the cockpit and serves as the backbone of the vehicle, the S2000's "X-bone frame" provides enhanced bending and torsional rigidity.
For quicker response and lighter weight, the S2000 features sophisticated electric-assist power steering. Safety and convenience features include four-wheel power disc brakes with ABS, power windows and power door locks.
The interior was designed after a Formula One race car, achieving the ultimate expression of a driver's based cockpit. The seats are contoured to provide additional lateral support. A four-way adjustable driver's seat allows for maximum driver comfort. Controls operate with precision and are positioned at the driver's fingertips. The race-car type digital instrument panel displays information in a clear, easy-to-ready format. The aluminum shift knob and separate engine-start button further exemplify Honda's racing heritage.
The S2000's angular, chiseled features give the roadster a form as distinctive as its performance. For 2001, a brilliant new "Spa Yellow" exterior color will join Grand Prix White, New Formula Red, Silverstone Metallic and Berlina Black.
2002:
S2000 Roadster Continues To Set The Pace With New Features For 2002
Text Only 02_S2000V1.doc
09/07/2001 - Torrance, Calif. -
Moving into its third model year on the market, demand for Honda's sporty S2000 roadster shows no signs of slowing. With racing-inspired performance and handling, the S2000 charges ahead in 2002 with a number of refinements that have been high on customer "wish lists," including a glass rear window with defogger and a multitude of interior improvements such as an upgraded center console and door panel net storage pockets.
A true performance vehicle, the S2000 provides an exciting experience behind the wheel. The S2000 features sophisticated electric-assist power steering for rapid response and lighter weight. The 2002 S2000 is equipped with an improved transmission for smoother and quieter shifts. The S2000 also has a new high-capacity clutch.
The new S2000 receives a glass rear window equipped with defroster. Also new for this model year is an upgraded stereo system, enhanced to 30 watts per channel from 20. Door-mounted tweeters, an anti-theft feature and silver faceplate have been added to the S2000's sound system to enhance the look as well as the sound.
The S2000 employs a 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder compact engines that boasts the greatest output of any normally aspirated production vehicle on the road today. The S2000's engine meets California's Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Propelling from 0-60 mph in under six seconds, the S2000's 16-valve, DOHC (dual overhead cam) VTEC (variable valve timing and lift electronic control) engine is a true representation of Honda's rich racing heritage.
Metallic accents grace the exterior and interior for 2002, enhancing the distinct, sporty appearance of the S2000's strong, razor sharp features. Accented with chrome rings, the taillights have refined and polished look. The interior features are also accentuated with a metal finish - new aluminum and leather shift knob, aluminum accented foot rest and silver trim accents enrich the S2000's cabin.
For 2002, a striking new "Suzuka Blue" exterior color with blue interior joins Spa Yellow, Grand Prix White, Formula Red and Berlina Black. "Sebring Silver" will also join the S2000's color palate, replacing Silverstone Metallic.
For 2001, the S2000 roadster earned accolades from both the automotive press and public alike. The awards included:
* Car and Driver -- "10 Best"
* Ward's Auto World -- "One of the 10 Best Engines"
2002 Honda S2000 Price Increases by Less than One Percent
Text Only 2002_S2000Pricing.doc
11/08/2001 - Torrance, Calif. -
The price for the 2002 Honda S2000 is increasing an average of only 0.3 percent while offering significant equipment upgrades compared to the 2001 model, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. announced today.
The price is increasing only $100 over last year's manufacturer's suggested retail price to $32,400, and is currently being shipped to dealers nationwide.
Destination and handling charges remain unchanged at $440. A hardtop for the Honda S2000 is now available as a genuine Honda Accessory and is priced at $2,995.
For the 2002 model year, the S2000 receives significant updates to its interior and exterior, including a glass rear window with defroster, an upgraded 30-Watt stereo system (previously 20-Watts), door mounted tweeters, an anti-theft feature and an exterior silver faceplate for the stereo system.
For 2002, new exterior colors include a striking Suzuka Blue (with blue interior) and Sebring Silver. The new colors join the existing lineup of Spa Yellow, Grand Prix White, Formula Red and Belina Black.
Honda Offers Accessory Hardtop For S2000
Text Only S2000HardtopRls.doc
09/04/2001 - Torrance, Calif. -
A hardtop for the Honda S2000 is now available as a genuine Honda Accessory.
Constructed of lightweight aluminum, the hardtop includes a large glass rear window with a defogger and a simple attachment process. The top provides both reduced interior noise and an aggressive new look to one of the sportiest cars on the market. Available in all factory S2000 colors, the top can be fitted to 2000, 2001 and 2002 model year S2000s.
Honda produces the hardtop at the Tochigi, Japan, manufacturing plant (where the S2000 is produced.) Honda uses the same manufacturing and painting processes as used on the S2000 factory line to insure the highest quality and factory-look finish possible. The hardtop weighs 44 lbs. and can be installed by the customer. Available now, the hardtop can be ordered at any Honda automobile dealer.
2003:
Honda S2000 Roadster Charges Ahead in 2003
Text Only 03_S2000Release.doc
08/16/2002 - Torrance, Calif. -
Coming off a record sales year and its third consecutive year on Car and Driver Magazine's list of "10Best Cars," the popular Honda S2000 roadster returns for another award-winning year.
With racing-inspired performance and handling, the S2000 provides an exhilarating experience behind the wheel for any driver. The 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine boasts the greatest output of any normally aspirated production vehicle on the road today. Propelling the roadster from 0-60 in under six seconds, the potent 16-valve, DOHC VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) engine meets California's Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) standard. Sophisticated electric-assist power steering allows for rapid response and lighter overall weight. Additionally, a high-capacity clutch, featured in the 6-speed manual transmission, results in exceptionally smooth and quiet shifting.
The S2000's excellent road manners are the result of an optimum 50/50 weight distribution, racing-inspired in-wheel double wishbone suspension and highly rigid body structure. Marked by the high central tunnel that runs down the center of the cockpit and serves as the backbone of the vehicle, the S2000's "X-bone frame" provides enhanced bending and torsional rigidity.
The central design theme of the S2000's interior is performance. Designed after a Formula One race car, the interior features a driver-oriented control layout, with a digital instrument panel and engine start button reminiscent of modern racing cars.
The S2000's exterior features the following colors: Berlina Black, Grand Prix White, New Formula Red, Sebring Silver Metallic, Silverstone Metallic, Spa Yellow and Suzuka Blue Metallic. New for the 2003 is tan added as an interior color for Grand Prix White.
For 2002, the S2000 earned accolades from both the automotive press and public alike. The awards included:
* Car and Driver - "10 Best"
* AMI Auto World - "Best of 2002" (Luxury Convertibles)
* Automobile Magazine - "Readers' Choice All-Star"
In 2002, Honda released a special edition Gioire model. It had:
Gold Pin-striping
Gold/Silver BBS 6-spoke Rims
Chromed Door Mirrors
Tan Interior with diamond stitching
Two color options
Royal Navy Blue Pearl
Dark Red Pearl
Estimated Production of 300/year
Japanese press release (translated from Japanese)
Honda, the real open-top sports car "S2000", set to "Jiore" special edition models will be released from Honda Verno stores nationwide from Friday, October 4.
"Jiore" is a model of commitment to a dedicated body color with gold pin stripe, only a combination of tan interior, with enhanced interior and exterior.
● The contents of this special specification car <exterior>
- Exterior Color only two colors (dark Cardinal Red Pearl, Blue Pearl Royal Navy) and gold pin stripe
- Only mirrors (chrome plated)
- Forged aluminum wheels BBS (Gold)
<Interior>
- (※ 1 quilting process leather seats, door linings center pad, the center console) Tan interior only
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel only
- ※ 2 wheel steering only Jiore typeV
- Floor carpet
※ 1 Except for the part.
※ 2 Special equipment dedicated S2000 typeV.
● Number of sales planning (domestic and year) 300
* Jiore GIOIRE: rejoice in Italian means, enjoy it.
● suggested retail price (excluding consumption tax, Unit: thousand yen) Pictured is the type mark ◎
Tokyo Nagoya Osaka Fukuoka Sendai Sapporo Okinawa
"Jiore" special edition S2000 3,680 3,691 3,696 3,707 3,684 3,721 3,741 ◎
"Jiore" special edition S2000 typeV 3,860 3,871 3,876 3,887 3,864 3,901 3,921
Honda · DVD navigation system is one thousand two hundred and twenty yen.
Also, White with Red interior was available in 2000.
Another interesting tidbit - for the 2000 and probably the 2001 model years practically all dealers added a "Market Value Adjustment" to the price of the S2000 which meant adding a few thousand dollars to the price of the vehicle. Back in 2000 the dealer added $4000 to the price of my car and listed this on the dealer options sticker: $40,0000 total.
05-27-2008, 08:08 AM
Changes between 2000-2001 & 2002-2003
