Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (240 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2009
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, characterized by deep emotional attachment and reverence as a legendary, driver-focused roadster.
7 problems reported (5 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentClutch master cylinder failure
Described as a common issue.
- RecurrentTransmission synchro wear
Particularly noted for difficult 2nd to 3rd gear shifts.
- RecurrentIntermittent starter motor failure
"sticking" or failing to engage, requiring replacement.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentIdle control issues
Rough idle, stalling, often related to age, sensors, or vacuum leaks.
- RecurrentGeneral creaks and rattles
Especially from the soft top and interior, considered characteristic.
- IsolatedClutch smell/persistent drag
Potentially related to clutch hydraulic system or a failing release bearing.
- IsolatedSuspension/steering component wear
Including steering torque sensor failures (AP1), with parts becoming discontinued.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version (AP1 vs. AP2). Discussions acknowledge the differences between the AP1 (1999-2003) and AP2 (2004-2009) generations, including engine displacement (2.0L vs. 2.2L), redline (9000 rpm vs. 8000 rpm), and styling updates. Preferences are subjective, with some owners valuing the AP1's higher redline and others preferring the AP2's increased torque and revised suspension. The "CR" (Club Racer) variant is mentioned as a stiffer, more track-focused model. The GT trim with a factory hardtop is noted as desirable.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Mazda Miata (MX-5), Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3/Z4, Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-8.
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Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, characterized by deep emotional attachment and reverence as a legendary, driver-focused roadster. The vehicle is consistently praised for its "wildly revving" high-RPM engine, exceptional balance, bespoke chassis, and engaging driving dynamics. Long-term owners report high reliability and durability when properly maintained, with many vehicles exceeding 100,000 miles without major issues. The car is celebrated for its timeless design, purity of purpose (lacking modern driver aids and complex infotainment), and the special, connected driving experience it provides. A strong sense of nostalgia and regret over selling one is a recurrent theme. Criticisms are minor and focused on practicality (lack of cargo space, two-seat limitation), age-related inconveniences (lack of modern amenities), and specific, known mechanical issues that arise with age or modification.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more focused, high-revving, and raw driver's car compared to the Mazda Miata, which is often seen as more playful and accessible. Frequently compared favorably to contemporary German roadsters (Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3/Z4) for its engaging dynamics and superior reliability, though sometimes noted to lack their premium refinement or low-end torque. The Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-8 are seen as alternatives with more practicality (2+2 seating) but different engine characteristics. The modern Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ is mentioned as the closest modern analogue in spirit, though the S2000's engine and gearbox are still considered more special. It is universally regarded as a benchmark for driver engagement among affordable, lightweight sports cars.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is universally assumed and preferred. A factory hardtop (GT trim) is recommended for reduced noise and a more finished look. For potential buyers, a pre-purchase inspection is strongly advised, with specific attention to clutch health, transmission synchros (particularly 2nd to 3rd gear), rear differential condition, and valve adjustment history. Checking for all original VIN tags is recommended to verify lack of major accident damage. Seeking unmodified or lightly modified examples is a common recommendation, as extensive aftermarket modifications are frequently cited as a source of reliability problems.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for driving enthusiasts seeking a pure, analog, and engaging sports car experience. Suitable as a second car or weekend vehicle due to limited practicality. Not recommended as a primary family vehicle or for those requiring cargo space or modern comforts like advanced infotainment. Ideal for owners who enjoy mechanical simplicity and performing their own maintenance. Buyers should be prepared for higher running costs associated with a performance-oriented, aging vehicle (e.g., premium fuel, potential for repairs) and should budget for immediate deferred maintenance. Patience is advised when searching the market to find a well-preserved, unmolested example at a fair price. Driving one before purchase is essential to understand the high-revving nature and firm ride.
Remarks
The overwhelming positive sentiment is based on long-term ownership experiences, with many reports spanning over a decade and 100,000+ miles. The community strongly emphasizes that reliability is excellent for a sports car when kept stock and well-maintained, but plummets with poor modifications or aggressive driving without corresponding upkeep. The market for clean, low-mileage examples is acknowledged as strong and appreciating. Two distinct generations (AP1 and AP2) exist, but owner feedback does not show a clear consensus favoring one over the other; preference depends on the driver's priority for peak revs (AP1) versus low-end torque (AP2). Much of the critical discussion revolves around diagnosing and repairing specific faults on older, high-mileage examples rather than fundamental design flaws. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2000. Years to avoid: 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Honda S2000 years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 3 | 0 | seat belts |
| 2007 | 3 | 1 | power train |
| 2006 | 10 | 2 | air bags |
| 2005 | 15 | 0 | power train |
| 2004 | 5 | 0 | power train |
| 2003 | 34 | 0 | air bags |
| 2002 | 22 | 0 | engine and engine cooling |
| 2001 | 24 | 0 | power train |
| 2000 | 46 | 3 | exterior lighting |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices6 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2007 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 13V246000
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2006 Acura RSX vehicles manufactured January 18, 2006, through August 12, 2006; and model year 2006-2007 Honda S2000 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2006, through November 13, 2006. The brake booster may be unable to maintain a vacuum when the brake pedal is depressed, decreasing brake assist.
2006 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 06V270000
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES, THE OWNER'S MANUALS CONTAIN INCORRECT CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S (NHTSA) VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE.
2006 · service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuumcampaign 13V246000
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2006 Acura RSX vehicles manufactured January 18, 2006, through August 12, 2006; and model year 2006-2007 Honda S2000 vehicles manufactured January 19, 2006, through November 13, 2006. The brake booster may be unable to maintain a vacuum when the brake pedal is depressed, decreasing brake assist.
2000 · seat belts:front:retractorcampaign 00V316000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR CAN DEFORM AND CAUSE COMPLETE OR FREQUENT LOCKING OF THE RETRACTOR. AS A RESULT, THE SEAT BELTS CANNOT BE PULLED OUT OF THE RETRACTOR AND CANNOT BE USED.
2000 · seat belts:front:anchoragecampaign 00V016000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CONVERTIBLE PASSENGER VEHICLES. WHEN THE CONVERTIBLE TOP IS DOWN AND THE SEAT IS PUSHED ALL THE WAY BACK, THE SEAT BELTS MAY NOT RETRACT PROPERLY RESULTING IN SLACK IN THE SEAT BELTS.
2000 · exterior lighting:tail lightscampaign 04V257000
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE LENS OF THE SIDE MARKER LAMP AND SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR IN THE TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY WERE MANUFACTURED WITH INCORRECT DYE.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: AP1
2.2
2.2L 4-cylinder · 242 hp · RWD · manual
Built 2004–2009