Honda S2000

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Honda S2000
Manufacturer	Honda Motor Company
Production	1999-present
Class	sports car
Body style(s)	2-door roadster
Layout	FMR layout

The Honda S2000 is a roadster manufactured by the Japanese automaker Honda Motor Company.^[1] It was launched in April 1999 and was created to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary.

Contents 1 Honda SSM 2 Models 2.1 AP1 2.1.1 AP1 sales 2.2 AP2 2.2.1 AP2 sales 2.3 Successor 3 Specifications 4 Reviews and awards 5 References 6 External links

[edit] Honda SSM

Introduced at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show,^[1] the Honda SSM concept car was the design study for the production S2000. The SSM (which stood for "Sports Study Model")^[2] was a rear wheel drive roadster powered by a 2.0 L (122 cu in) 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 perfect 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.^{[citation needed]}

[edit] Models

[edit] AP1

Honda S2000 (AP1)
Production	2000-2003
Assembly	Takanezawa R&D Plant in Tochigi, Japan
Engine(s)	1,997 cc (122 cu in) F20C I4
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual
Wheelbase	94.5 in (240 cm)
Length	162.2 in (412 cm)
Width	68.9 in (175 cm)
Height	50.0 in (127 cm)

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 1,997 cc (122 cu in) F20C inline 4 cylinder DOHC-VTEC engine producing 240 hp (179 kW) at 8,300 rpm and 153 ft·lbf (207 N·m) at 7,500 rpm, though European versions were rated slightly lower at 237 hp (177 kW) and the Japanese models were quoted with 247 hp (184 kW) at 8,600 rpm due to a small difference in engine compression ratio.^{[citation needed]} 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 123.5 hp (92 kW) per liter, displacing the older record by the Nissan Pulsar VZ-R N1 by 0.375 hp (280 W) per liter.^{[citation needed]}

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. 16 in (41 cm) 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), the windscreen was now standard and added an additional floor peg to keep the driver's side floor mat in place, also now standard.

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 taillamps, 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 20 mpg (US) (8.5 km/l) city, 22 mpg (US) (9.4 km/l) combined, and 26 mpg (US) (11.1 km/l) highway. Revised rating are 18 mpg (US) (7.7 km/l) city, 20 mpg (US) (8.5 km/l) combined, and 24 mpg (US) (10.2 km/l) highway.^[3] 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 20.6 mpg (imp) (7.3 km/l) city, 28.2 mpg (imp) (10.0 km/l) combined, and 35.3 mpg (imp) (12.5 km/l) highway.

The AP1 was manufactured up through 2003 at Honda's Takanezawa, Tochigi plant, alongside the Honda NSX and Honda Insight hybrid.^[4] In 2004 production moved to the Suzuka plant.

[edit] AP1 sales

Honda S2000 AP1 annual sales and registrations:

Calendar Year	U.S.[5][6]	Europe[7]	Japan[8]	Canada[9]	Australia[10]
1999	3,400	1,179	7,209	332	596
2000	6,797	3,948	3,422	412	521
2001	9,682	2,195	1,913	401	308
2002	9,684	2,531	1,471	336
2003	7,888	2,081	961	238

[edit] AP2

Honda S2000 (AP2)
Production	2004-present
Assembly	Suzuka R&D Plant in Suzuka, Mie, Japan
Engine(s)	1,997 cc (122 cu in) F20C I4 2,157 cc (132 cu in) F22C1 I4
Transmission(s)	6-speed manual
Wheelbase	94.5 in (240 cm)
Length	162.2 in (412 cm)
Width	68.9 in (175 cm)
Height	50.0 in (127 cm)

The 2004 model year incorporated several revision to the S2000 and was given the chassis designation of AP2. The 2004 model introduced newly designed 17 in (43 cm) 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 2,157 cc (132 cu in). At the same time, the redline was reduced from 9,000 rpm^[11] to 8,000 rpm with a cutout at 8,200 rpm,^[12] mandated by the longer travel distance of the pistons. Peak torque was increased by 6% to 162 ft·lbf (220 N·m) 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.^{[citation needed]} 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.^{[citation needed]}

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 239 hp (178 kW). 2007 remained technically unchanged.

The 2008 model year marked the first time the S2000 was offered in more than one trim level.^[13] 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.^[14] 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.^[15] 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 90 pounds (41 kg) relative to the standard model. The engine in the S2000 CR was unchanged from the standard trim.^[16]

The Honda S2000 CR became available in the fall of 2007 and started at US$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.

[edit] AP2 sales

In the United States, the largest market for the S2000 worldwide, the MSRP of the 2008 Honda S2000 is US$34,300.^[17][18] 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 2007 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.

Calendar Year	U.S.	Europe[7]	Japan[8]	Canada[9]	Australia[10]
2004	7,320[19]	2,018	1,087	250
2005	7,780[20]
2006	6,271[21]				30
2007	4,302[22]
2008

[edit] Successor

This section contains information about a scheduled or anticipated future automobile. It may contain preliminary or speculative information, and may not reflect the final version of the vehicle.

Winding Road has reported that Honda is working on a possible successor to the S2000.^[23] 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.^[24]

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 2.0 L (122 cu in) engine producing around 200 hp (149 kW).^[25]

Honda has not officially commented on the future of the S2000 after the 2008 model year.

[edit] Specifications

	2000–2003	2004–2006 (F20C)	2004–2008 (F22C)[26]	2008 CR[26]
Engineering
Engine Type	naturally aspirated inline-4
Displacement	1,997 cc (122 cu in)		2,157 cc (132 cu in)
Horsepower	237 hp (177 kW) @ 7800 rpm (US)[26] 240 PS (237 hp) (EU) 178 kW (239 hp) (JP)[27]
Torque	153 ft·lbf (207 N·m) @ 7500 rpm		162 ft·lbf (220 N·m) @ 6800 rpm
Redline	8800 rpm		8000 rpm
Bore & Stroke	87.0 mm (3.425 in) x 84.4 mm (3.323 in)		87.0 mm (3.425 in) x 90.7 mm (3.571 in)
Compression Ratio	11.0:1		11.1:1
Valvetrain	16-valve DOHC VTEC
Transmission	6-speed manual
Dimensions
Length	162.2 in (4,120 mm)
Width	68.9 in (1,750 mm)
Height	50.0 in (1,270 mm)
Wheelbase	94.5 in (2,400 mm)
Track	f: 57.9 in (1,471 mm), r: 59.4 in (1,509 mm)
Curb Weight	2,809 lb (1,274 kg)	2,801 lb (1,271 kg)	2,855 lb (1,295 kg)	2,813 lb (1,276 kg) 2,765 lb (1,254 kg) w/o hardtop +42 lb (19 kg) w/ audio/AC
Weight Distribution	50/50
Other
Tires	Bridgestone Potenza S-02 f: 205/55VR16 r: 225/50VR16	Bridgestone Potenza RE050 f: 215/45 R17 r: 245/40 R17		Bridgestone Potenza RE070 f: 215/45ZR17 r: 255-40ZR17
Brakes	f: 11.8 in (300 mm) ventilated discs r: 11.1 in (282 mm) solid discs

[edit] 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,^[28] Car magazine,^[29] 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 and 2006,^[30][31] 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^[32].
• 10 Sexiest Cars for 2006 Finalist, Road & Travel Magazine^[33]
• Consumers' Most Wanted Convertible Under $35,000 for 2007, Edmunds.com^[34]
• Best Affordable Sports Car for 2008, U.S. News & World Report^[35]

[edit] References

[edit] External links

• Official 2008 Honda S2000 sites for the U.S., Japan, and U.K.
• Honda S2000 at the Open Directory Project

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	1980s										1990s										2000s
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Kei car		City/Jazz					Today								Today					Life				Life
Subcompact							City					City				City/Logo							Fit/Jazz/City/Fit Aria						Fit/Jazz/City/Fit Aria
	Ballade				Ballade				Concerto					Domani
	Civic				Civic				Civic				Civic				Civic
Compact																						Civic					Civic
	Accord	Accord					Accord				Accord				Accord
Mid-size																			Accord					Accord						Accord
											Inspire					Inspire				Inspire				Inspire/Accord
Full-size																													Inspire/Accord
							Legend					Legend					Legend				Legend					Legend
Coupé					CRX				CRX				del Sol							Insight
						Integra				Integra				Integra									Integra
	Prelude			Prelude					Prelude				Prelude					Prelude
Sports												Beat									S2000
												NSX
Mini SUV																				HR-V
																												Crossroad
Compact SUV														Passport
Compact Crossover SUV																								Element
																	CR-V						CR-V					CR-V
Mid-size CUV																							Pilot							Pilot
Luxury CUV																							MDX
Compact MPV																									Edix/FR-V
																			Stream								Stream
																										Airwave
Minivan																	Stepwgn					Stepwgn				Stepwgn
																Odyssey					Odyssey					Odyssey
Pickup	Acty										Acty										Acty
																											Ridgeline