S2000 AP2

The Honda S2000 AP2 is a convertible roadster produced from 2004 to 2009 in the Suzuka assembly plant near the legendary Suzuka International Racing Course in Japan. The S2000 designation comes from its 2.2 liter F22C1 I4 engine, famous in its time for having the highest horsepower per liter of all mass-produced cars without a turbocharger, with 240 PS. The stylish 2-seater comes with a detachable hardtop straight from the factory, 17-inch rims, and Bridgestone RE-050 tires, 215/45 R17 in the front and 245/40 R17 in the back. It takes 6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph on a Honda S2000 AP2, an experience worth living for motorsport enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Driving a 6-speed Honda S2000 AP2 is as close as you can get to a real racecar with a mass-produced vehicle. It is only 51 inches high, and its low profile is so intense it makes the driver seat rest almost right on the floor. The car is super responsive to the gas throttle, and the electronic stability control system enhances the driver's safety when riding over wet track surfaces.

The AP2 designation distinguishes this second-generation model from the original AP1 (2000-2003), representing a comprehensive refinement of Honda's purist roadster philosophy. The most significant mechanical evolution centers on the engine: while the AP1 featured the celebrated F20C 2.0-liter unit with an stratospheric 8,800 RPM redline, the AP2's F22C 2.2-liter powerplant trades ultimate rev capability for improved real-world performance. The larger displacement delivers 162 lb-ft of torque (versus 153 lb-ft in the AP1), creating stronger mid-range acceleration despite the reduced 8,200 RPM redline. This makes the AP2 notably more tractable on technical circuits where corner exit torque proves more valuable than high-RPM peak power.

Honda made crucial suspension geometry revisions that transformed the S2000's track behavior. Engineers reduced rear toe-in from -0.19 degrees to -0.05 degrees at bump deflection and lowered the rear roll center from 101mm to 92mm, addressing the AP1's tendency toward sudden oversteer at the limit. Combined with softer springs and revised anti-roll bars, these changes created a more progressive, predictable platform that rewards skilled driving without the knife-edge characteristics that challenged some AP1 drivers. The transmission received carbon fiber synchros replacing the AP1's brass units, reducing weight while improving shift quality, with gear ratios shortened 4% in first through fourth and slightly taller sixth gear for relaxed highway cruising.

Track performance validates these engineering decisions. The AP2 demonstrates exceptional balance thanks to its perfect 50/50 weight distribution and compact 2,400mm wheelbase, posting impressive lap times across diverse circuits—from technical venues like Motorsport Ranch (1:20.0) to high-speed layouts like Chuckwalla Valley Raceway (1:58.6). The chassis remains composed under heavy braking and delivers precise turn-in response, while the revised suspension allows drivers to exploit the full performance envelope with greater confidence than the occasionally twitchy AP1.

For ultimate track performance, Honda offered the S2000 Club Racer (CR) edition in 2008-2009, producing just 699 examples. The CR featured a quicker steering rack, stiffer suspension, wider rear tires (255/40R-17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070s), and aggressive weight reduction including deleted air conditioning and stereo (optional add-backs), saving 90 pounds. The CR's distinctive black wheels, yellow Alcantara interior, and peak power indicator light identified this track-focused variant, which now commands over $108,000 compared to its original $36,935 MSRP.

The aftermarket embraced the AP2 platform enthusiastically, with popular modifications including Hondata FlashPro ECU tuning (raising the rev limit to 8,600 RPM), intake and exhaust upgrades, and advanced suspension components from manufacturers like KW and Ohlins. The F22C responds well to naturally aspirated tuning through camshafts, valve springs, and engine management, though reaching the AP1's 9,000 RPM capability requires substantial internal modifications. For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate S2000 experience, the AP2 delivers refined track capability, improved daily drivability, and a legendary naturally-aspirated VTEC powerplant wrapped in one of Honda's most focused driver's cars—a fitting swan song to the company's analog sports car legacy.