2001 Honda S2000

Summary:

Still the finest roadster available to the poor enthusiast

Faults:

Nothing yet. Transmission is a little noisy, but that's expected on an 8 year old car.

General Comments:

Well, after several months as a daily driver, I can only say that this car continues to put a smile on my face every time I get into it.

I'm not young, nor rich, I'm 31 and I saved to buy this car second hand as my first serious sports car, and it hasn't disappointed in the slightest.

The grin that spreads when the magic VTEC moment hits is still worth every cent of the increased fuel consumption when the second set of cams cuts in. I absolutely love it, and the look on passenger faces as the revs climb and the speed increases is a highly entertaining blend of exhilaration and fear. I am still taking every opportunity to take passengers for a 'ride'.

The fuel economy is great if you don't VTEC, but it drinks a bit when you drop the hammer. I'm averaging about 25mpg which is fine considering I do cane it often.

Comfort is an area this car seems to fall down in many reviews, but I find it fits me like a finely tailored shoe. I'm 6'2" and fit comfortably, the seat is not even all the way back (but nearly). Any 6 footers having trouble, are not sitting in the correct position, stop trying to lay down when you drive!! There's lots of headroom with the roof on too. The lack of a cup holder for those Sunday Starbucks trips is disappointing, but I've taken to using the netting in the passenger footwell, which is fine as long as you aren't testing the car's lateral G capabilities (which are astounding, IF you can drive, if you CAN'T drive, don't push it, the car will kill you if you disrespect it, wet or dry).

The handling in general is amazing, but this is not news. There are two things that are a complete no-no though (at least in the AP1 that has no traction control), do NOT step on the clutch while cornering at speed, and do NOT cross the VTEC line (6k rpm) with the wheel turned. This car will punish you for mistakes at speed, but handles just like any other 2l car when driving normally (ie very safe and neutral).

The steering is very precise, the brakes very sharp, and the gearbox feel is indescribable, click, click, click.

Owners be VERY aware... The original Bridgestone tires that come on the car (in 225/50/16 size) have the tireprint of a 245 tire! Strange but true. When replacing the rear tires, always use 245/45, which is sadly a rare tire (Toyo T1Rs are a good choice in this size though).

Lastly, can't finish this without mentioning that Honda announced recently... No more S2000, and for now, no replacement. This car has just become a classic. Enjoy!

Bottom line... If driving is your passion, this car is for you. If all you want is a good looking roadster for going from a to b, something else less edgy might suit you better.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th January, 2009