Do Honda S2000s Hold Their Value?

Yes—Honda S2000s have held their value remarkably well and, in many cases, have appreciated over the past decade; as of 2025, prices remain strong, though they’ve cooled slightly from the 2021–2022 peak. The roadster’s limited supply, bulletproof engineering, and status as a modern manual-only icon keep demand high among enthusiasts and collectors.

Where the S2000 Market Stands in 2025

The Honda S2000 transitioned from a used performance bargain to a bona fide modern classic during the last five to seven years. Pandemic-era enthusiasm pushed values to record highs, especially for low-mileage AP2s (2004–2009) and the track-focused CR (2008–2009). Since mid-2023, prices have normalized but remain well above pre-2020 levels, reflecting durable demand rather than a speculative bubble.

Typical Price Ranges

The following ranges summarize recent market behavior across auctions, classifieds, and specialist dealers. Exact figures vary by mileage, condition, originality, color, and sale venue.

• Driver-quality AP1 (2000–2003), higher miles: roughly $20,000–$30,000
• Clean AP1/AP2 with 50k–100k miles: about $30,000–$45,000
• Low-mile AP2 (especially 2006–2009): roughly $45,000–$65,000
• Exceptional low-mile, highly original examples: about $65,000–$90,000+
• S2000 CR (2008–2009): typically $80,000–$120,000; museum-grade, ultra-low-mile cars can exceed that

While the frenzy has eased, well-kept cars continue to transact quickly at the right price, and rare or pristine examples command notable premiums.

Why the S2000 Holds Value

Several structural factors underpin the model’s resilience and long-term collectability.

• Scarcity: Production ended in 2009; approximately 110,000 were built worldwide, with far fewer surviving in unmodified, low-mile condition.
• Engineering pedigree: The F20C/F22C engines, near-50:50 balance, and a stellar six-speed manual created a unique, high-revving driving experience.
• Reliability: Honda durability keeps ownership costs predictable compared with many peers.
• Enthusiast demand: Manual, naturally aspirated sports cars from the 2000s have become modern analog classics amid broader market electrification and automation.
• Cultural status: The S2000 features prominently in motorsport, media, and tuner culture, further supporting demand.

Together, these elements elevate the S2000 beyond typical depreciation curves, aligning it with other era-defining enthusiast cars that age into collectible status.

Model and Trim Nuances

Not all S2000s are valued equally; differences in generation and specification matter.

• AP1 (2000–2003): 2.0L engine with 9,000 rpm redline; rawer feel. Early cars can be more affordable but clean, original examples have climbed.
• AP2 (2004–2009): 2.2L with broader torque and suspension revisions; generally commands a premium, especially later years.
• CR (2008–2009): Lighter, stiffer, aero package, shorter soft top or hardtop; the rarest and most collectible, with outsized premiums.

Color rarity, factory options, and documentation (window sticker, service records) can move a car up or down a pricing tier within these broad categories.

What Most Influences Price

Condition and originality drive the biggest swings in value; buyers pay up for cars that are close to factory specification and well documented.

• Mileage and condition: Low miles, clean cosmetics, and no rust are decisive.
• Originality: Unmodified cars with OEM parts and no accident history bring top dollar.
• Service history: Regular maintenance (including valve lash checks, fluid changes) inspires confidence.
• Modifications: Even tasteful mods can narrow the buyer pool; reversibility helps.
• Venue and timing: Well-presented cars on enthusiast auction sites or at specialist dealers often outperform local classifieds; seasonality can also matter.

Sellers who prioritize documentation, professional presentation, and transparency consistently see stronger results.

Costs and Ownership Considerations

Strong values persist partly because ownership is manageable compared with other performance cars of the era, though aging components and parts availability need attention.

• Maintenance: Generally reliable; watch for soft-top wear, clutch and differential service, timing chain tensioner noise, and suspension bushings.
• Parts: Core mechanical parts are accessible; some trim/interior items are becoming harder to source.
• Insurance: Agreed-value or collector policies can be prudent for higher-value examples.
• Storage: Indoor, climate-controlled storage preserves soft top, interior, and paint—protecting value.

Proactive care helps prevent condition-related depreciation and supports long-term appreciation potential.

Risks and What Could Pressure Values

While the S2000 has a strong floor, a few macro and model-specific factors could temper prices.

• Economic cycles: Higher rates and broader market slowdowns can reduce discretionary spending on enthusiast cars.
• Demographics: As buyer tastes evolve, demand could shift—though the S2000’s cross-generational appeal helps.
• Accident/insurance histories: Salvage or heavy modification histories materially cap values.
• Supply shocks: A wave of owners listing at once can temporarily soften prices.

Despite these risks, the S2000’s established reputation and finite supply suggest resilience compared with many contemporaries.

Outlook: Stable With Select Upside

Barring a deep economic contraction, the S2000’s near-term outlook is stable, with modest appreciation likely for the best examples—particularly late AP2s and CRs with low miles, full provenance, and original equipment. Driver-quality cars should continue to trade briskly if priced realistically.

Buying or Selling Tips

Simple strategies can help buyers avoid pitfalls and help sellers maximize value.

• For buyers: Prioritize condition, originality, and records; commission a pre-purchase inspection; be ready to move quickly on well-presented cars.
• For sellers: Present full documentation, high-quality photos, and detailed descriptions; correct minor defects before listing; choose an appropriate venue.

Executing on these basics often makes the difference between an average deal and a standout result.

Summary

The Honda S2000 does hold its value and, in many cases, has appreciated—especially for clean AP2s and the rare CR. After the pandemic peak, prices settled but remain well above pre-2020 levels. Limited supply, robust engineering, and enduring enthusiast demand underpin a strong market, with the best, most original examples showing the most resilience and upside over time.

Why is S2000 worth so much?

Honda S2000s are expensive due to a combination of their limited production, resulting in scarcity, and their highly regarded engineering, featuring a high-revving, reliable engine, legendary gearbox, and excellent handling. Their rarity as a rear-wheel-drive Honda, excellent build quality, and status as a modern “JDM legend” also contribute to their increasing value and premium pricing on the collector market.
 
Rarity and Limited Production 

• Limited Numbers: . Opens in new tabHonda produced a relatively small number of S2000s (just over 113,000 units) over its 10-year production run, making them less common than other sports cars like the Mazda MX-5. 
• High Demand: . Opens in new tabThis limited supply, combined with high demand from enthusiasts and collectors, drives up prices due to the basic principle of supply and demand. 

Engineering and Driving Experience

• High-Revving Engine: The S2000 is famous for its powerful and reliable F-Series inline-four engines, which achieved an exceptional specific power output for their size. 
• Superior Handling: The car offers a superb driving experience, praised for its taut handling, crisp shifting, and strong braking, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. 
• Rear-Wheel Drive: As one of the few modern rear-wheel-drive Honda sports cars, the S2000 occupies a unique position in the market, appealing to buyers seeking a classic sports car feel. 

Collector Status and Market Factors

• “JDM Legend”: The S2000 is considered a significant Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car, and the market for such performance cars has seen a notable increase in value. 
• Reliability and Build Quality: Honda’s reputation for building bulletproof, reliable cars, along with the S2000’s exceptional build quality, further solidifies its appeal as a desirable classic. 
• Nostalgia and Pop Culture: Appearances in popular culture, such as the Gran Turismo video games, have also cultivated a strong following among younger car enthusiasts who may not have experienced these vehicles in their prime. 

Is the S2000 a collectible?

It’s from this well that an absolute jewel of a car—the Honda S2000—sprung in the early 2000s. There are reasons for the S2000’s greatness and its appreciating price in the collector car market, including its characteristically Honda build quality and bulletproof reliability.

How much is a S2000 worth now?

The price of a used Honda S2000 varies widely, but generally ranges from $17,000 to $60,000 depending on the year, condition, mileage, and location. Older models (2000-2003) are typically valued lower than the later AP2 models (2004-2009). Factors like low mileage, original condition, and desirable color/options can significantly increase the price. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Earlier models (2000-2003): Expect prices from around $17,000 to $35,000. 
• Later models (2004-2009): These tend to fetch prices from $25,000 up to $60,000 or even higher, especially for low-mileage or rare examples. 
• Specific examples:
  • A 2005 S2000 is valued around $21,093 for resale and $19,843 for trade-in according to Kelley Blue Book. 
  • A 2000 S2000 can range from $7,867 to $15,746, according to Edmunds. 
  • A 2008 Honda S2000 can be found at an average price of $49,555, according to Top Speed. 
  • A 2009 S2000 has an average price of $59,347, according to Top Speed. 
• CR (Club Racer) models: These are highly sought after and can command significantly higher prices. 
• Bring a Trailer: According to a Reddit user on the S2000 subreddit, checking the history of S2000 sales on Bring a Trailer can give a good gauge of pricing. 

Why is the S2000 so special?

The Honda S2000 is special due to its high-revving, naturally aspirated, 9,000 RPM engine with exceptional horsepower-per-liter, its perfectly balanced and lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis with 50:50 weight distribution, and its simple, driver-focused design with a standard manual transmission and driver-oriented cockpit. This combination creates a raw, engaging, and pure driving experience that is rare and highly sought after by enthusiasts. 
High-Revving, Naturally Aspirated Engine 

• Unusual Redline: The S2000’s F20C four-cylinder engine had a stratospheric redline of 9,000 RPM, a characteristic typically reserved for supercars. 
• Exceptional Specific Output: It produced an impressive 124 horsepower per liter, the highest of any mass-production, naturally aspirated engine at the time, even rivaling some supercars. 
• Powerband Focus: The engine was designed to produce its power at high RPMs, requiring the driver to rev it out to its limits to experience maximum performance. 

Lightweight, Driver-Focused Chassis 

• Perfect Weight Distribution: . Opens in new tabThe car featured a balanced 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, contributing to its exceptional handling. 
• Lightweight Design: . Opens in new tabWith a weight under 3,000 lbs, the S2000 was very light, making it feel nimble and “light on its feet” in corners. 
• Double-Wishbone Suspension: . Opens in new tabThe use of Honda’s excellent double-wishbone suspension setup further enhanced its precise and responsive handling. 

Pure, Driver-Oriented Design 

• Manual Transmission Only: The S2000 was exclusively available with a manual transmission, appealing to drivers who prefer total control. 
• Driver-Centric Interior: The cockpit was tightly focused on the driver, with all controls facing the driver for an immersive and engaging experience. 
• Minimalist Approach: The car lacked modern driver aids like traction control (on early models) and focused on pure driving pleasure rather than luxury or advanced features. 

A Legendary Driving Experience

• Engaging Feedback: The S2000 provides excellent steering feel and weight, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road and control the car through corners. 
• Exhilarating Sound: The engine’s high-pitched, screaming exhaust note, especially at high revs, is a significant part of its intoxicating driving experience. 
• Driver’s Car Ethos: It embodies a philosophy of pure driving fun and engagement, offering an exhilarating and interactive experience that is hard to find in other modern vehicles.