The Honda S2000 roadster is an exhilarating concoction of race-bred technology and sleek styling. It is best suited for car enthusiasts willing to put up with its firm suspension, tight accommodations, and high-revving engine for the sake of adrenaline-pumping performance and handling. It’s a weekend club-racer’s delight.

 

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The Honda S2000 is geared toward spirited driving rather than leisurely cruising or comfortable daily commuting, even though it is just as user-friendly and reliable as every other Honda. Its potent four-cylinder engine demands a heavy right foot for optimum performance — it must be revved high to take advantage of its power.

 

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With that in mind, the S2000 blows away most other four-cylinder models. For instance, the S2000 has about 40 percent more power than the base Mazda MX-5 Miata or the base version of the Pontiac Solstice. It even puts out more horsepower than some V6 engines from European competitors — although those engines may offer more torque, which provides better acceleration at lower speeds.

 

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Unfortunately, the Honda S2000 is not very comfortable for travel on imperfect roads or long trips on the highway due to its exceedingly sharp and responsive suspension and steering systems. Nor does it insulate occupants very well from engine, road, or wind noise.

 

That said, the S2000 is addictive. It has one of the best manual transmissions available in any car and a sophisticated suspension. It has perfect front-to-rear weight distribution. All of those factors conspire to create smile-inducing performance and handling. The short-throw six-speed manual gearbox is the only transmission available and remains a joy to operate, with a level of precision and a satisfying feel that are virtually unrivaled.

 

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Stability control (which Honda calls Vehicle Stability Assist) is standard. Like other such systems, it automatically adjusts throttle and brake input to thwart a loss of control or traction.

 

Like many two-seaters, the interior can be a tight fit for tall or portly riders, and trunk space is limited, with room for a couple of duffel bags and little more. With the powered soft-top down, there is a lot of wind noise and turbulence in the cabin. Unlike a growing number of competitors, a power-retractable hardtop is not available on the Honda S2000.

 

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Four-wheel disc antilock brakes, air-conditioning, a limited-slip differential, power accessories, a CD stereo, keyless entry, leather upholstery, and a glass rear window with heating element are all standard.

 

Is the Honda S2000 for You?