![]() The engine was unusual for Honda at the time, since it featured a timing chain as well as a conventional clockwise rotation. However, it was the 2.0-liter, F20C-spec engine that received most of the praise heaped on the package. (Remember, this was before these buttons became cliché.) ![]() Everything about the S2000 screamed performance, including a cool racing-inspired start button. A few factory accessories, including a neat hard top, could be added. Only one trim level was available, and there were no options. It did, however, offer some sparse comforts: Leather upholstery plus electric doors and windows came standard. This was a car made to be driven and driven hard, a positioning enhanced by a Spartan interior and a refreshing lack of electronic driving aids. ![]() Extremely fast steering and Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tires came standard. The chassis was stiff and its A-arm suspension was tuned for performance over comfort. It had a perfect 50-50 weight distribution, six-speed transmission, Torsen differential, staggered 16-inch wheels and a jewel of a naturally aspirated engine. The production model delivered on the SSM’s promises. The Honda badge and model name, however, were intended to echo the first sporting Honda cars-the S500, S600 and S800 of the 1960s. Some were surprised when the U.S.-market cars received the Honda badge and not an Acura logo, as the price point was above $32,000. The lines were clean, and its 2.0-liter engine was mounted low and far back in the chassis to promote balanced handling.Īfter the SSM got a warm reception from enthusiasts and the press, it was no surprise to Honda-watchers when the Japanese company launched the S2000 in late 1999. The car appeared again at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show as well as a few similar affairs in between. That’s when Honda took the wraps off its rear-wheel-drive convertible, dubbed the Sports Study Model. It might not be as common as a Miata, but the Honda S2000 represents an impressive sporting achievement from a company better known to the masses for its front-wheel-drive people-movers.Įven though it first came out in 1999 for the 2000 model year, Honda had been planning the S2000 for years-at least since the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show.
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