Honda S2000 2.0 Horsepower Explained

The Honda S2000 2.0 makes roughly 240 horsepower; in Japan it was rated higher at 250 PS (about 247 hp). The figure varies by market and testing standard, but all versions of the 2.0-liter F20C are known for delivering around 240 hp and revving to an exceptionally high redline, defining the car’s performance character from its 1999 launch through the end of production in 2009.

Official Horsepower Ratings by Market

Because Honda sold the S2000 in multiple regions with different certification methods and minor calibration differences, the quoted horsepower numbers aren’t identical everywhere. Here’s how the 2.0-liter F20C was officially rated across key markets.

• United States/Canada (2000–2003, AP1): 240 hp (SAE net) at 8,300 rpm; torque 153 lb-ft at 7,500 rpm.
• Europe/UK (1999–2009): 240 PS (177 kW) at 8,300 rpm, approximately 237 hp.
• Japan (1999–2009): 250 PS (184 kW) at 8,600 rpm, approximately 247 hp.

These figures reflect regional measurement standards—SAE net in North America and PS/DIN metrics in Europe and Japan—plus small differences in emissions tuning and fuel, which account for the modest spread between 237 and 247 hp.

Why the Numbers Differ

Variations stem from three main factors: different rating protocols (SAE net vs. PS/DIN), regional emissions and fueling calibrations, and rounding/marketing conventions. In practice, all 2.0-liter S2000s deliver broadly similar performance, with the Japanese-market cars achieving the highest quoted output.

Context: 2.0 vs. 2.2

If you encounter a lower horsepower figure, you may be seeing data for the later 2.2-liter F22C1 sold in North America from 2004 onward (AP2), which traded some peak horsepower (rated at 237 hp SAE) for more torque and a lower redline. Europe and Japan retained the 2.0-liter F20C through the end of production.

Key Specs of the 2.0-Liter F20C

Beyond headline horsepower, the F20C’s engineering helps explain the car’s reputation as a high-revving icon. These are the essentials enthusiasts typically highlight.

• Displacement: 1,997 cc (F20C inline-four, naturally aspirated)
• Peak power: Around 240 hp (market-dependent; up to 250 PS in Japan)
• Redline: 9,000 rpm (AP1), with peak power around 8,300 rpm
• Specific output: About 120 hp/L (US/Europe) to 125 hp/L (Japan)
• Valvetrain: DOHC VTEC, forged internals, high compression

Taken together, these specs underpin the S2000’s hallmark traits: throttle response, rev-hungry character, and remarkable output per liter for a naturally aspirated production engine.

Summary

The Honda S2000 2.0 is rated at approximately 240 horsepower in most markets, with Japan quoting 250 PS (about 247 hp). Differences arise from regional rating standards and minor calibration changes, but all 2.0-liter F20C variants deliver the high-revving performance that made the S2000 a modern classic.

How much HP can you get out of a S2000?

It features a front-mid engine rear-wheel-drive layout with power delivered by a 1,997 cc (122 cu in) inline four-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine. The engine (codenamed F20C) generates power outputs of 177–184 kW (241–250 PS; 237–247 hp), and 208–218 N⋅m (153–161 lbf⋅ft) of torque depending on the target market.

How much is a 2000 Honda S2000 worth today?

The value of a used 2000 Honda S2000 ranges from $7,867 to $15,746, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.

Is the Honda S2000 fast?

But even with nearly 8000 revs on the tach, our very green (345 miles) test car was unable to break a wheel loose on our grippy test surface, which partly explains our rather lackluster performance: 0 to 60 took us fully 6.8 seconds, and the quarter-mile fell in 15.1 seconds at a more impressive 96 mph.

How fast is a Honda S2000 0 to 60?

And get to 60 in 6.87. Seconds hey for an 18-year-old rear drive car. I will take that. That is the S2000.