http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/rendere...00-replacement/

The Honda S2000 has been on the US market since 1999, and although it's long in the tooth, the rev-happy two-seater still brings joy to drivers with its well-balanced RWD goodness. We're looking forward to an all-new S2000, and according to a few Japanese magazines, we can expect to see the S2K's replacement in 2010. One mag commissioned the above rendering, which incorporates clean, angular lines, similar to those found on recent concepts from Honda and Acura. The topless rendering also exhibits an improved rendition of the aesthetically questionable Honda grille, along with some US-centric chrome rims.

The next generation S2000 is rumored to be powered by a choice of four- or six-cylinder engines, with the four still packing 2.4 liters, but producing around 250 hp, and the a larger 3.5-liter unit putting out around 350 ponies. While a modestly enhanced 2.4 makes sense as the base engine, we're unsure if a larger, heavier V6 is a good call for a vehicle that prides itself on its 50/50 weight distribution and 8,300 rpm redline. Adding a turbocharger would help to keep weight issues at bay, while still providing the added pop enthusiasts crave.

 

 

We can always hope it looks better in person.

If they could put that 350 HP V6 in there and keep the car around 2800 lbs I'd drive it, but I'm sure it will end up being well over 3000.

Too bad. I'd actually like to see them make an S1000. Lightweight, powered by one of their motorcycle engines. Great mileage and performance, as well as being a true spiritual successor to the S600 and S800.

Oh ... and it doesn't matter, since autoblog is always wrong about the S.

 

Put a V6 in that and it looks suspiciously like a 350Z.

 

Let's hope the V6 is worth $40k. It shouldn't weigh more than 3200 pounds.

 

but it will still have a 2.4 liter engine..... I think this artical was written for the TSX and someone decided to change the name of the car.

 

The "still packing 2.4 liters" jumped out at me immediately. This is just a bunch or regurgitated baloney with some total untruths mixed in.

 

While all rumors, I would rather see Honda follow the same ideology set by Lotus and Mazda of light weight and handling as opposed to Nissan's heavy and large HP. Unfortunatly..... if you have seen the Honda line-up lately.... and the new Acuras ... the penny pinchers are now in control which doesn't bode well at all for enthusiasts.


Prime examples: NSX replacement, TSX, RL, Accord, Pilot.


Honda's best cars...

Integra/RSX - Dead
Legend Coupe - Dead
CRX - Dead
Prelude - Dead
NSX - Dead
Civic Si - Alive and kicking just HUGE. At what point is a Civic not a Civic?
Insight - Dead

Such a shame that to get the best Hondas you have to buy cars made 5 to 15 years ago. Its amazing the S2000 was not beheaded long ago. The era of Honda enthusiast cars is nearly over. Time to find a new marque.

 

looks too sc430ish

 

Light weight is, in general, a thing of the past. With modern crash and impact standards, you have to build a heavier structure/chassis to pass tests. Add in the current "need" for new gadgets and systems in cars (customer driven) and you get heavier cars.

Even "light cars" like the Miata are about 2500 lbs now. Virtually every manufacturer is adding weight to their cars and increasing size.

They make the cars you're wanting in Europe and South America (among other places). Most of them are loud rattletraps with poor sound deadening, thrashy engines, minimal amenities, and good fuel economy. They're solely something to get from one place to another - no frills and not even a lot of comfort.

Good luck finding a manufacturer that makes light, tossable cars. Lotus is pretty much the only one sticking to that formula since even the Miata is starting to weigh a significant amount. Toyota has the AE86 replacement supposedly coming out that could offer what you're asking but that's a niche car, really. RWD, light, sporty compact vehicles are just not big sellers when the alternative is a FWD, cushy vehicle with a big stereo, blingy wheels, and lots of room (usually at a lower price)...