Is the Honda S2000 a Collectible? A 2025 Market Check

Yes. The Honda S2000 has matured into a bona fide modern collectible, with strong demand for clean, low-mileage cars and rare trims like the Club Racer fetching premium prices; as of 2025, well-kept drivers often trade in the mid-$20,000s to $40,000s, while top-spec, low-mile AP2 and CR examples can reach $70,000 to well over $150,000 at auction. The car’s analog driving character, high-revving engine, limited production, and robust reliability have cemented its status among contemporary classics.

Why the S2000 Now Commands Collector Attention

The S2000’s reputation has grown steadily since production ended in 2009. It stands out as one of the last purely analog, manual-only roadsters from a major manufacturer, backed by Honda durability and a motorsport-friendly chassis. Pandemic-era spikes in collector car prices brought fresh visibility and new records; while the broader market has cooled from 2022 highs, the S2000 has largely held gains for the best examples, signaling lasting demand rather than a fleeting bubble.

What Makes It Collectible

The following points outline the fundamental attributes that have elevated the S2000 from great used roadster to recognized collectible.

• Engineering pedigree: F20C/F22C inline-four with an 8,800–9,000 rpm redline (AP1) and exceptional specific output, paired to one of the sharpest six-speed manuals ever fitted to a road car.
• Analog purity: Rear-wheel drive, limited-slip differential, hydraulic steering, and no automatic option.
• Limited supply: Roughly 110,000 built globally (1999–2009), with about 66,000 sold in the U.S.; clean, unmodified cars are getting harder to find.
• Model significance: Represents Honda’s last high-revving, naturally aspirated two-seat sports car; celebrated for balance and track capability.
• Reliability: Honda longevity with strong aftermarket and community support—rare among cars with this performance envelope.

Taken together, these traits place the S2000 firmly in the “modern classic” camp, with long-term appeal to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Model Variants and Desirability

Below is a practical hierarchy of S2000 variants as typically valued by the market; individual car condition, mileage, and originality can move any example up or down the ladder.

1. AP2 Club Racer (CR, 2008–2009, U.S.): Track-focused aero, stiffer setup, hardtop, and soft-top delete from the factory; production of roughly 700 units puts it at the top of the heap.
2. Late AP2 (2008–2009): The final iterations benefit from continuous refinements; low-mile, original cars are highly sought after.
3. Early AP2 (2004–2007): 2.2-liter F22C1 (more torque, 8,000 rpm redline) plus revised suspension that tamed the AP1’s edgy reputation.
4. AP1 (1999–2003): Original 2.0-liter F20C with 9,000 rpm redline and the purest “S2000 feel”; early cars carry extra cachet among purists.
5. JDM and other regional editions: Japan/ROW cars can have different ratings and colors; right-hand-drive import interest is rising as more years clear the U.S. 25-year rule.

While rarity pushes CR and late AP2 cars higher, pristine AP1s—especially in desirable colors—can rival AP2 values, reflecting how strongly the market prizes originality and condition.

Prices in 2025: What Buyers and Sellers Are Seeing

These ranges reflect public auction results and retail listings from 2023–2025 across enthusiast platforms; exceptional outliers can exceed them.

• High-mile drivers (150k+ miles, honest condition): roughly $18,000–$28,000.
• Solid, well-kept drivers (60k–120k miles): typically $25,000–$45,000 depending on year and records.
• Low-mile collector-grade AP1/AP2 (under ~40k miles, stock): approximately $40,000–$70,000+, with late AP2s often on the higher end.
• AP2 Club Racer (CR): usually $90,000–$150,000; delivery-mile or time-capsule cars can exceed $150,000–$200,000.

Prices reflect the post-2022 stabilization: top cars remain strong, while ordinary drivers have softened slightly, creating a clearer spread between collectible and merely usable examples.

What Moves Value Up or Down

The market rewards originality and stewardship. Here are the most consistent value levers seen by buyers, sellers, and appraisers.

• Mileage and originality: Lower miles and factory-spec (or fully reversible) condition command premiums; heavy modifications typically reduce collector value.
• Documentation: Full service history, clean Carfax/accident-free status, and original parts (intake/exhaust, wheels, books, keys) boost confidence and price.
• Colors and options: Rare or era-defining colors (e.g., Laguna Blue Pearl, Suzuka Blue Metallic, Spa/Rio Yellow, Grand Prix White; Apex Blue Pearl on CR) add desirability.
• Year/trim: AP2 and CR trends are strong; standout AP1s with low miles, rare hues, or single-owner provenance can be equally prized.
• Market timing: Seasonal swings affect convertibles; macro conditions can nudge auction outcomes up or down.

In practice, a well-kept, stock car with proof of careful ownership outperforms similar-mileage examples lacking records or originality.

Buying Advice: Due Diligence Matters

Because many S2000s saw track days or modifications, targeted inspections pay off. Use the following checklist as a starting point before purchase.

• Service records: Look for regular oil changes with quality oil, differential/trans fluid intervals, and documented timing-chain-tensioner (TCT) attention if noisy.
• Top condition: Early AP1s had a plastic rear window (later cars have glass); check for seam separation, rub marks, and leaks.
• Transmission and differential: Test for second-gear crunch when cold/hot; listen for differential whine and check fluid history.
• Suspension and alignment: Uneven tire wear can signal poor alignment or bushing wear; AP1 geometry is sensitive and setup-dependent.
• Accident history: Inspect subframes and suspension pickup points; look for paint mismatch, overspray, or non-OEM panel gaps.
• Modifications: Prior track use isn’t disqualifying if maintenance kept pace; verify quality parts and professional installation, and factor the impact on resale.
• Electrics and interior: Window regulators, seat bolsters, and sticky switchgear are common wear points; originality of radio/AC on CR is notable.

An independent pre-purchase inspection by a shop familiar with S2000s is strongly recommended and can prevent surprises.

Known Issues and Parts Support

While generally robust, the S2000 has a few recurring items owners and inspectors watch for.

• Timing chain tensioner (TCT) noise: Often addressed proactively; persistent rattles warrant inspection.
• Clutch hydraulics: Slave cylinder leaks are relatively common and inexpensive to address.
• Synchros/gear engagement: Second-gear crunch on worn or abused transmissions; fluid choice and driving style matter.
• Top wear and seals: Especially on early AP1s; replacement fabric and seals are available, but OEM trim availability varies by region/year.
• Bushings and ball joints: Age-related wear affects alignment stability and tire wear.
• Cooling and radiators: Original units can be tired by now; many upgrade preventively.
• Early AP1 valvetrain hardware: Some owners update to later-spec retainers; verify history on high-rpm track cars.

Honda still supplies many mechanical parts; some trim and interior pieces are scarcer. Aftermarket support for maintenance and mild performance upgrades remains strong.

How It Drives: AP1 vs. AP2

AP1 (1999–2003) cars are defined by the 2.0-liter F20C and 9,000 rpm redline, with edgier rear suspension tuning that rewards precise inputs. AP2 (2004–2009) adds a 2.2-liter F22C1 (more torque, 8,000 rpm redline) and revised suspension geometry that improves stability and everyday usability. Both retain the hallmark steering feel, shifter precision, and chassis balance that underpin collectibility.

Outlook: 2025 and Beyond

Collector interest appears durable. While the froth of 2021–2022 has cooled, top-grade cars—especially CRs and low-mile AP2s—continue to set strong results, and exceptional AP1s are catching up. Right-hand-drive imports of early JDM cars under the 25-year rule are adding supply, but U.S.-market, low-mile originals remain the blue-chip picks. Barring major economic shocks, the S2000’s status as a modern classic looks secure over the medium term.

Bottom Line

If you’re asking whether the S2000 is collectible, the market has already answered: yes. Focus on originality, documentation, and condition, and you’ll find an asset that’s as rewarding to drive as it is to own.

Summary

The Honda S2000 is an established modern collectible in 2025. Clean, stock cars with records and desirable colors command strong money, with AP2 CR and late AP2 models leading, and standout AP1s increasingly prized. Prices for drivers have stabilized below pandemic-era highs, while top examples remain robust. Do your homework on service history, originality, and wear items—then enjoy one of the last great analog roadsters.

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. 

Is the Honda S2000 rare?

Yes, while not exceedingly rare in total production numbers, certain Honda S2000 configurations and low-mileage, well-maintained examples are considered rare and are commanding high prices, especially the S2000 CR (Club Racer). 
Elaboration:

• Limited Production: The S2000 had a production run of ten years (1999-2009), with a total of around 113,889 units produced globally. This is significantly fewer than some other popular sports cars like the Mazda MX-5. 
• Rarity of CR Model: The S2000 CR, a track-focused variant, was only produced in 2008 and 2009, with fewer than 700 units made, making it particularly rare. 
• Rarity of Specific Configurations: Certain colors and options, like the Grand Prix White color, are very rare, with only 90 made. 
• High Demand and Appreciating Value: Despite not being extremely rare in terms of overall production, the S2000 has gained popularity as a modern classic, with its sharp handling, high-revving engine, and overall driving experience making it desirable. This, combined with a dwindling supply of well-maintained, unmodified examples, has driven up prices, especially for the CR model and low-mileage cars. 
• Price Increases: The S2000 CR, in particular, has seen a significant increase in value, with some examples fetching prices far exceeding even the highest condition estimates for standard S2000s. 
• Examples of Rare S2000s: A 123-mile 2009 S2000 CR sold for $205,000, according to Hagerty, while a 2008 S2000 CR with 1,300 miles sold for $80,325. 

Do S2000 hold value?

A 2000 Honda S2000 has depreciated $1,778 or 9% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $16,928 and trade-in value of $15,862.

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.