Honda S2000

Infobox Automobile


name = Honda S2000
manufacturer = Honda Motor Company
production = 1999-present
class = sports car
layout = FMR layout
body_style = 2-door roadsterThe Honda S2000 is a roadster manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda Motor Company.cite web |url=http://www.hondanews.com/search/release/218 |title=Honda S2000 -- Introduction |accessdate=2008-03-13 |date=2001-02-22 |format=HTML |work=Honda Media Newroom |publisher=Honda ] It was launched in April 1999 and was created to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary.

Honda SSM

Introduced at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show, the Honda SSM concept car was the design study for the production S2000. The SSM (which stood for "Sports Study Model")cite web |url=http://www.fast-autos.net/vehicles/Honda/1995/SSM_Concept/ |title=1995 Honda SSM Concept |accessdate=2008-04-04 |format=HTML |work=Fast-Autos.net |publisher= ] was a rear wheel drive roadster powered by a convert|2.0|L|cuin|0|abbr=on inline-4. It featured a push-button starter and central division between the driver and passenger which Honda claimed to improve the vehicle's rigidity. All of the body panels were aluminum and the car had a 50/50 weight distribution.

The SSM would appear unchanged in many automotive shows for several years afterwards, hinting at the possibility of a production version. Honda later announced the production version of the SSM. Carrying on the tradition of the company's 1960s S500, S600, and S800 roadsters, the new vehicle was called the S2000.

Models

AP1

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Honda S2000 (AP1)
production = 1999-2003
assembly = Takanezawa R&D Plant in Tochigi, Japan
engine = convert|1997|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on F20C I4
transmission = 6-speed manual
wheelbase = convert|94.5|in|cm|0|abbr=on
length = convert|162.2|in|cm|0|abbr=on
width = convert|68.9|in|cm|0|abbr=on
height = convert|50.0|in|cm|0|abbr=on
weight =The Honda S2000 was introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year and was given the chassis designation of AP1. It features a front-mid-engine, rear wheel drive layout with power being delivered by a convert|1997|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on F20C inline 4 cylinder DOHC-VTEC engine producing convert|240|hp|kW|0|abbr=on at 8,300 rpm and convert|153|lbf.ft|N.m|0|abbr=on at 7,500 rpm, though European versions were rated slightly lower at convert|237|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and the Japanese models were quoted with convert|247|hp|kW|0|abbr=on at 8,600 rpm due to a small difference in engine compression ratio.fact|date=March 2007 The engine was mated to a six-speed manual transmission and Torsen limited slip differential. In part because of its high-revving nature for a car engine, the S2000 achieves the highest specific power per unit volume of any mass-produced naturally-aspirated automobile piston engine, producing convert|123.5|hp|kW|0|abbr=on per liter, displacing the older record by the Nissan Pulsar VZ-R N1 by convert|0.375|hp|W|abbr=on per liter.fact|date=May 2008

The roadster is constructed using a rigid X-bone monocoque frame, improving passenger safety and handling. Other features include independent double wishbone suspension, electrically-assisted steering and integrated roll hoops. convert|16|in|cm|0|abbr=on wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tires were standard equipment. The compact and lightweight engine, mounted entirely behind the front axle, allows the S2000 to obtain a 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and lower rotational inertia. An electrically powered vinyl top with internal cloth lining was standard. Honda made available an OEM hardtop for additional cost.

The 2001 model was largely unchanged, but Honda upgraded the radio (now with a clock), made the windscreen standard and added an additional floor peg to keep the driver's side floor mat in place.

For the 2002 model year, suspension settings were revised and a smaller glass rear windscreen introduced. The plastic rear window was replaced with glass and an electric defroster was added. Other updates included slightly revised tail lamps, an upgraded stereo, and a revised engine control unit (ECU). The 2003 model would remain greatly unchanged from the previous year.

United States versions of Honda S2000 require premium unleaded gasoline to operate (91 AKI octane rating, corresponding roughly to 95 RON). Fuel economy figures by the United States EPA were originally convert|20|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on city, convert|22|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on combined and convert|26|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on highway. Revised rating are convert|18|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on city, convert|20|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on combined and convert|24|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on highway. [ [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/ratings2008.shtml 2008 Fuel Economy Tests ] ] The European and Japanese versions are also tuned to run on a minimum of 95 octane unleaded, but 98 is recommended. Fuel economy figures published by Honda UK are convert|20.6|mpgimp|L/100 km mpgus|abbr=on city, convert|28.2|mpgimp|L/100 km mpgus|abbr=on combined and convert|35.3|mpgimp|L/100 km mpgus|abbr=on highway.

The AP1 was manufactured up through 2003 at Honda's Takanezawa, Tochigi plant, alongside the Honda NSX and Honda Insight hybrid.cite web | url=http://www.insightman.com/data1/Tsunoda1.htm | title=Gaining New Insight Into Aluminum Body Production | work=insightman.com | accessdate=2006-09-19] In 2004 production moved to the Suzuka plant.

AP2

Infobox Automobile generation


name = Honda S2000 (AP2)
production = 2004-present
assembly = Suzuka R&D Plant in Suzuka, Mie, Japan
engine = convert|1997|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on F20C I4
convert|2157|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on F22C1 I4
transmission = 6-speed manual
wheelbase = convert|94.5|in|cm|0|abbr=on
length = convert|162.2|in|cm|0|abbr=on
width = convert|68.9|in|cm|0|abbr=on
height = convert|50.0|in|cm|0|abbr=on
weight =

The 2004 model year incorporated several revisions to the S2000 and was given the chassis designation of AP2. The 2004 model introduced newly designed convert|17|in|cm|0|abbr=on wheels and Bridgestone RE-050 tires along with a retuned suspension that reduced the car's tendency to oversteer. The spring rates and shock absorber damping were altered and the suspension geometry modified to improve stability by reducing toe-in changes under cornering loads. In addition, cosmetic changes were made to the exterior with new front and rear bumpers, revised headlight assemblies, new LED tail-lights, and oval-tipped exhausts.

The AP2 also included the introduction of a larger version of the F20C to the North American market only. Designated F22C1, the engine's stroke was lengthened, increasing its displacement to convert|2157|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on. At the same time, the redline was reduced from 9,000 rpmcite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/shortroadtests/7274/honda-s2000.html |title=Honda S2000 - Short Take Road Test |work=caranddriver.com |accessdate=2007-06-14] to 8,000 rpm with a cutout at 8,200 rpm,cite web |url=http://automobiles.honda.com/models/specifications_full_specs.asp?ModelName=S2000 |title=2007 Honda S2000 - Specifications - the Official Honda Web Site |work=Honda |accessdate=2006-12-11] mandated by the longer travel distance of the pistons. Peak torque increased 6% to convert|162|lbf.ft|abbr=on at 6,200 rpm and the F22C1 was quoted by Honda as having more torque at lower rpm than the F20C, although power output was the same.fact|date=May 2007 The F22C1 was used exclusively in the North American market for 2004 and 2005 with the F20C being used in all other markets.

In conjunction with its introduction of the F22C1, Honda also changed the transmission gear ratios by shortening the first four gears and lengthening the last two. Another change was the inclusion of a clutch release delay valve to improve drivetrain longevity by reducing shock loads.fact|date=May 2007

The 2006 model introduced a drive by wire throttle, Vehicle Stability Assist system, new wheels, and one new exterior color, Laguna Blue Pearl. Interior changes included revised seats, additional stereo speakers integrated into the headrests, and additional headrest padding where previous seats had helmet depressions and screens. The F22C1 replaced the F20C in 2006 for the Japanese market with a specified power output of convert|239|hp|kW|0|abbr=on. 2007 remained technically unchanged.

The 2008 model year marked the first time the S2000 was offered in more than one trim level.cite web |url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/1097/releases/3913 |title=Club Racer-Inspired Honda S2000 CR Prototype to Debut at New York International Auto Show |accessdate=2007-03-19 |date=2007-03-13 |format=HTML |publisher=Honda Media Newsroom ] In addition to the base model, Honda offered a new race-inspired version of the S2000, distinguished by reduced weight, fewer amenities, and a claimed increase in performance. The S2000 CR made its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show on 4 April 2007.cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-hondas-hardcore-s2000-is-a-fitting-send-off/ |title=Honda's hardcore S2000 is a fitting send off |accessdate=2007-04-04 |last=Lavrinc |first=Damon |date=2007-04-04 |format=HTML |publisher=Autoblog ] Changes for the CR, called the Type-S in Japan, included a quicker (lower-ratio) steering rack, stiffer suspension and all-new Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires. Rear tires were widened from 245/40R-17 to 255/40R-17 on the CR. A revised body kit, comprised of a redesigned front clip, rear bumper, and a large spoiler, were wind-tunnel tested and claimed to reduce the overall coefficient of lift by 70-80 percent. [cite web |url=http://corporate.honda.com/press/article.aspx?id=4099 |title=Press Release: 2008 Honda S2000 - Introduction |date=2007-08-15 |format=HTML |publisher=American Honda Motor Co., Inc. ] The power folding soft top was removed and replaced with additional chassis bracing topped off with a tonneau cover, while the optional removable non-structural hard top became a standard feature on the CR. Finally, in an effort to reduce weight and lower the center of gravity, the spare tire was omitted and air conditioning and stereo were offered only as options. Net weight savings with out the additional hardtop was convert|90|lb|kg relative to the standard model. The engine in the S2000 CR was unchanged from the standard trim. [cite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/autoshows/12648/2008-honda-s2000-cr.html |title =2008 Honda S2000 CR |accessdate=2007-04-18 |month=April | year=2007 |format=HTML |publisher=Car and Driver ]

The Honda S2000 CR became available in the fall of 2007 and started at USD|36,300. Production volume of less than 2,000 units is expected. Redesigned five-spoke wheels were standard on all S2000s, with bright silver on the base model wheels and a gunmetal color on the CR wheels. All CR models were only available with yellow and black cloth interior.

uccessor

"Winding Road" has reported that Honda is working on a possible successor to the S2000.cite web |url=http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-honda-s2000-successor-to-grow-up-spawn-extra-seats/ |title=Honda S2000 Successor To Grow Up, Spawn Extra Seats? |accessdate=2007-01-04 |last=Nunn |first=Peter |date=2007-01-04 |publisher=Winding Road] According to this source the car, if approved, would have four seats and would be moved upmarket to compete with the SLK-Class and Z4. If produced, the successor would not come to the market any time before the 2009 model year and might be branded under the Acura badge for the North American market.cite web |url=http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-s2000-successor-to-get-acura-badge/ |title=S2000 Successor To Get Acura Badge? |accessdate=2007-03-19 |last=Nunn |first=Peter |date=2007-02-01 |publisher=Winding Road]

Another Japanese automotive publisher, "Best Car" magazine, claims Honda has also been considering various ideas ranging from a 4-door sports cars to a front-wheel drive sport compact. Instead of moving upscale to compete with the SLK and Z4, though, it would downscale to compete directly with the Mazda Miata and be powered by a convert|2.0|L|cuin|0|abbr=on engine producing around convert|200|hp|kW|0|abbr=on.cite web |url=http://www.vtec.net/news/news-item?news_item_id=655584 |title=S2000 Type R Coming? And What's Going On With the NEXT Generation S2000? |accessdate=2007-03-19 |date=2007-01-26 |format=HTML |publisher=Best Car |pages= |language= English]

Honda has not officially commented on the future of the S2000 after the 2009 model year.

Recently Road and track magazine has put on the cover on its October issue the S3000. The rumor of the 4 passenger S2000 has been shot down a long time ago. The new S3000 would be a completely redesigned vehicle with a 3.0L v6 engine pushing somewhere in the 300hp range.

pecifications

Reviews and awards

The S2000 has received much praise from critics and motoring journalists and has received favourable reviews from such publications as "Car and Driver", cite web | url=http://www.caranddriver.com/bestcars/7579/10best-cars-honda-s2000.html | title=Honda S2000 | work=Car and Driver | accessdaymonth=19 September | accessyear=2006] "Car" magazine, cite web | url=http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/print.php?sid=154 | title=Honda S2000 | work=CAR Magazine | accessdaymonth=19 September | accessyear=2006] the "Los Angeles Times" and "Road & Track" magazine. Among the features highlighted are the high output of the engine, the high redline, the balanced handling, and the smooth gearbox.

* The S2000 was on "Car and Driver"'s Ten Best list for 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2004.
* The S2000 was the highest-ranked model in the J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study "Premium Sports Car" class for 2004,cite web |url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2004055 |title=2004 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) |work=J.D. Power |accessdate=2006-09-19] 2006,cite web |url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.asp?ID=2006133 |title=2006 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) |work=J.D. Power |accessdate=2006-09-19] and 2008cite web |url=http://www.jdpower.com/autos/ratings/dependability-ratings-by-category/Compact-Premium-Sporty-Car/sortcolumn-1/descending/page-#page-anchor |title=2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) |work=J.D. Power |accessdate=2008-08-13] and has consistently held one of the top three positions.
* The F20C engine won the International Engine of the Year award in the "1.8 to 2 litre" size category for five years from 2000 through 2004.
* The F20C was featured on Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2000 and 2001.
* The S2000 ranked number #1 in the BBC "Top Gear" survey in 2004, 2005, and 2006. [ [http://www.topgear.com/content/carsurvey/2006/features/01/1.html Top Gear 2006 Survey] ]
* 10 Sexiest Cars for 2006 Finalist, Road & Travel Magazine [ [http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13325723/ Why women want sexier cars - The Driver's Seat - MSNBC.com ] ]
* Consumers' Most Wanted Convertible Under $35,000 for 2007, Edmunds.com [ [http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/04/lutz-lets-a-bit-of-edmunds-survey-slip-gm-takes-13-first-place/ Lutz lets a bit of Edmunds survey slip, GM takes 13 first place picks - Autoblog ] ]
* Best Affordable Sports Car for 2008, "U.S. News & World Report"cite web |url=http://jalopnik.com/cars/industry-news/us-news--world-report-names-best-cars-for-2010-only-two-american-cars-on-the-list-334895.php |title=U.S. News & World Report Names Best Cars for 2008 |accessdate=2007-12-17 |last=Hardigree |first=Matt |date=2007-12-17 |format=HTML |work=Jalopnik |publisher=Gawker Media ]
* Ten Most Gorgeous Japanese Cars Currently For Sale, "Jalopnik"cite web |url=http://jalopnik.com/5041398/the-ten-most-gorgeous-japanese-cars-currently-for-sale |title=Ten Most Gorgeous Japanese Cars Currently For Sale |accessdate=2008-08-30 |last=Hardigree |first=Matt |date=2008-08-25 |format=HTML |work=Jalopnik |publisher=Gawker Media ]

ales and production

In the United States, the largest market for the S2000 worldwide, the MSRP of the 2008 Honda S2000 is USD|34,300.cite web |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/honda-s2000-cr-starting-at-36-300/|title=Honda S2000 CR starting at $36,300 |accessdate=2007-10-09 |last=Lavrinc |first=Damon |date=2007-10-09 |format=HTML |work=Autoblog ] cite web|url=http://automobiles.honda.com/s2000/|title=Official Honda U.S. site pricing|accessdate=2007-10-09] The CR trim's base price is $36,300 USD with a $1000 USD option to add air-condition and stereo.

In the United Kingdom, the 2008 model is offered in two trims, Roadster and GT. The GT trim features a removable hard-top and an outside temperature gauge. On-the-road prices of these trims are £27,300 and £27,850, respectively. The S2000 is the second most expensive Honda in the UK, after the Honda Legend.

Although the S2000 is a low production vehicle, sales of the roadster have fallen dramatically over the last couple of years. Honda sold 7,320 units in the U.S for 2004, the first year of the AP2. In 2007, only 4,302 units were sold, a decrease of 41%. This is 56% decrease from 2002 which was the best year for S2000 sales at 9,684 units. 1,719 units were sold during the first six months of 2008, a 28% decline compared with the same period of 2007.cite web |url=http://www.hondanews.com/categories/1090/releases/ |work=Honda News |publisher=American Honda |title=Honda Media Newsroom Releases - Sales |accessdate=2008-09-29 ]

*U.S.: Through August 2008. Europe: Through July 2008.

References

External links

* Official 2008 Honda S2000 sites for the [http://automobiles.honda.com/s2000/ U.S.] , [http://www.honda.co.jp/S2000/ Japan] , and [http://www.honda.co.uk/car/S2000 U.K.]
*