1999 Honda S2000 review from UK and Ireland

Clutch thrust bearing was replaced under a service bulletin.

Piston oil jets changed under service bulletin, along with spark plugs.

Having previously owned a Integra Type R, and being thoroughly introduced to the VTEC addiction which I can't see anybody being immune too, I wanted to make the logical progression to the S2000. I had always wanted a roadster that went as well as it looked, and I must say that the S2000 fits that criteria.

The build quality is superb, and the whole car is fantastically solid, with absolutely no flex in the chassis, that can be a problem with rag tops.

The engine is an absolute masterpiece, in my opinion and while it has come up against some criticism for lacking in torque low down the rev range, I don't agree. The car will happily pull from 35 mph in sixth. At the end of the day the real pull starts at the cam changeover point (6000rpm) and doesn't stop until 9000 when the limiter cuts in. If you are sitting on the VTEC changeover and floor it, this thing really flies and the sound of the engine is breathtaking. Its actually quite hard to drive this car sedately, I am addicted to the intoxicating roar of the VTEC on cam!

The handling of this car did take a bit of getting used too. 240bhp in such a small, rear drive package is obviously going to have to be treated with some respect, especially in the wet. The handling is razor sharp, which if you are too quick on corrections etc. can land you in hot water. I have driven older 911's and I would say the characteristics are not too dissimilair. I like that though, as I feel that a lot of new cars are too diluted these days with all the 3 letter abbreviated electic jiggery pokery that stops you from stacking it, but also stops you from enjoying it!

To summerize, this car rocks! its everything I want in a car. And apart from the astronomical insurance costs, and the hunger for tyres, the running costs are very good.