Is the Honda S2000 a fast car?

Yes—by the standards of its era, the Honda S2000 is a quick sports car, and it still feels brisk today. In objective terms, most stock examples run 0–60 mph in roughly 5.4–6.0 seconds with a top speed around 150 mph; subjectively, its high-revving engine, sharp chassis, and precise gearbox make it feel faster than the stopwatch suggests. Compared with modern performance cars, though, its straight-line pace is now mid-pack, with handling balance and driver engagement being its real calling cards.

Performance at a glance

The S2000’s numbers have long been its headline: a naturally aspirated, small-displacement engine that revs to the stratosphere, a low curb weight, and a chassis tuned for precision. Here are the key figures enthusiasts and testers commonly reference.

• Acceleration: 0–60 mph typically 5.4–6.0 seconds; quarter-mile about 14.0–14.5 seconds at ~96–100 mph (period U.S. media tests)
• Top speed: Approximately 150 mph (electronically limited, model/year dependent)
• Engines:
  – AP1 (1999–2003) F20C, ~240 hp at 8,300 rpm, 153 lb-ft at 7,500 rpm, 9,000 rpm redline
  – AP2 (2004–2009 U.S.) F22C1, ~237 hp at 7,800 rpm, 162 lb-ft at 6,500 rpm, 8,000 rpm redline
• Weight: About 2,800–2,950 lb depending on year/market
• Grip and braking: Roughly 0.90–0.95 g skidpad in period tests; 70–0 mph braking commonly in the mid-160s ft range
• Benchmark lap: Sport Auto (Germany) recorded about 8:39 around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in a stock AP1—strong for the class and time
• Drivetrain and chassis: 6-speed manual only, limited-slip differential, double-wishbone suspension, near-50:50 weight distribution

Taken together, the S2000 delivers credible straight-line speed and standout agility, especially considering its naturally aspirated output and age. Its consistency, balance, and gearshift quality often leave as much of an impression as its raw times.

AP1 vs. AP2: what changed for speed and feel

While both generations are fundamentally similar, Honda revised the later AP2 to make the car more tractable and stable without dulling its edge.

• Power delivery: AP1’s F20C lives above 6,000 rpm; AP2’s larger F22C1 adds torque lower in the band for easier around-town pace
• Redline: AP1 spins to 9,000 rpm; AP2 drops to 8,000 rpm but feels punchier in the midrange
• Chassis tuning: 2004-on cars received geometry and tire changes for greater stability; the early AP1 is edgier at the limit
• Real-world pace: Many tests show AP2 models matching or slightly bettering AP1 in 0–60 and rolling acceleration despite a marginally lower peak horsepower rating

In practice, both versions are comparably quick; the AP2 often feels faster off-corner thanks to its added torque and calmer rear-end behavior.

How it stacks up in 2025

Viewed against contemporary rivals at launch—and against modern benchmarks—the S2000’s performance lands in an interesting middle ground.

• Then (early 2000s peers): Similar pace to the Porsche Boxster S (986) and noticeably quicker than Mazda Miata NB/NC in straight lines; highly competitive on a twisty road or track day
• Now (current mainstream performance): Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ run roughly 5.4–5.8 sec 0–60; Mazda MX-5 ND2 about 5.7–6.1 sec—very close to a stock S2000
• Now (hot hatches and EVs): Honda Civic Type R (FL5) typically 4.9–5.0 sec; many EVs and turbo six-cylinder roadsters (e.g., BMW Z4 M40i) are much quicker to 60
• Track context: With fresh tires and alignment, an S2000 remains a strong momentum car; its lap pace is more about grip, balance, and driver commitment than raw power

In today’s terms, the S2000 is no longer a straight-line standout, but it still runs with modern lightweight sports cars and rewards precision in ways many faster cars don’t.

Beyond straight-line speed: why it feels fast

Numbers only tell part of the story. The S2000’s sensation of speed stems from immediacy—how quickly it responds to inputs and builds revs—which amplifies driver engagement.

• High-rev character: Power arrives in a thrilling top-end rush, encouraging drivers to chase the redline
• Gearbox and clutch: A short, rifle-bolt 6-speed and light, communicative clutch make extracting performance intuitive
• Chassis communication: Double-wishbones and a stiff structure transmit road feel clearly, aiding confidence and precision
• Open-top experience: Roof-down acoustics and wind add drama, enhancing the perception of speed

The result is a car that often feels faster than its spec sheet implies—especially on technical roads where rhythm and response matter.

Real-world factors that influence pace

Like any older performance car, an S2000’s speed depends on condition, setup, and driver familiarity.

• Tires and alignment: Modern performance tires and a proper alignment can meaningfully cut lap and stopping times versus worn or dated rubber
• Driver skill: Early AP1s can punish abrupt mid-corner inputs; AP2 geometry changes improved stability, but smooth technique remains key
• Maintenance: A healthy VTEC system, valve adjustments, fresh fluids, and suspension bushings preserve the car’s original performance
• Altitude and climate: Naturally aspirated engines lose more power at elevation and in high heat than turbocharged rivals

Attention to these details can shift an S2000 from merely “quick” to genuinely rapid in real-world driving.

Modification potential

While the stock S2000 is well-rounded, the platform accepts upgrades that can materially change its speed profile.

• Bolt-ons and tuning: Intake, header, exhaust, and ECU tweaks yield modest gains, improving response rather than dramatic horsepower
• Forced induction: Quality supercharger or turbo kits commonly deliver 280–400+ wheel horsepower; 0–60 can drop into the 4s or even high 3s with traction
• Chassis upgrades: Modern tires, coilovers, and brake pads/fluids unlock substantial time on track without compromising reliability
• Trade-offs: More power stresses driveline components and cooling; careful parts selection and tuning are essential

Upgraded intelligently, an S2000 can transition from “brisk momentum car” to “outright fast,” though the stock balance is part of its enduring charm.

The verdict

The Honda S2000 is fast enough to satisfy in 2025—especially on a winding road or track—while no longer being a straight-line rocket by modern standards. Its enduring appeal is the way it makes speed: a high-revving engine, precise controls, and a communicative chassis that reward skill and deliver excitement beyond the raw numbers.

Summary

Is the S2000 a fast car? In absolute terms today, it’s respectably quick rather than blistering; in relative terms for its class and era, it was and remains a legitimate performer. If you value engagement, balance, and character over headline acceleration, the S2000 still feels—and drives—fast where it counts.

Is the S2000 a fast car?

Wind it out further, however, and the S2000 walks away from the Bimmer, hitting 120 mph some seven seconds quicker. We’re sure that a properly broken-in example launched on a drag strip will run 0 to 60 in the mid-five-second range, and we’ll test another one soon.

Why is a Honda 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. 

How fast will a Honda S2000 go?

The stock Honda S2000 has an electronically limited top speed of around 155 mph (249 km/h), though a specific model year or gearing can affect this slightly. However, modified or “///Mugen setup” versions of the S2000 can reach speeds of 170-171 mph (274-275 km/h) and beyond, depending on the extent of the modifications and engine tuning.
 
Stock S2000 Top Speed 

• Around 155 mph (249 km/h): This is the top speed for a stock S2000, limited by the gearing of the transmission.

Modified S2000 Top Speed 

• 170-171 mph (274-275 km/h) and above: With performance modifications such as intakes, exhausts, ECU tuning, and other components, the S2000 can achieve higher speeds.

Factors Affecting Top Speed

• Gearing: The final drive ratio in the S2000’s transmission limits its top speed in stock form. 
• Modifications: Engine and drivetrain modifications, such as a supercharger, turbocharger, or upgraded exhaust systems, can increase horsepower and allow the car to reach higher speeds by overcoming the gearing limitations. 
• Wheel size: Larger or smaller wheel sizes can also impact the car’s gearing and overall top speed, though they can also be an indicator of other performance upgrades. 

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.