2007 Honda S2000: What's New

Vehicle Overview
Honda’s high-performance two-passenger S2000 roadster got a larger engine for the 2004 model year, and the bumpers, headlights and taillights were restyled. Modifications also were made to the suspension tuning and transmission gearing, and larger wheels were installed. It carries on unchanged for 2007.

An outside temperature gauge and headrest-mounted speakers are standard. Drive-by-wire throttle-control technology and Vehicle Stability Assist were added for 2006.

Competing against the Audi TT, BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z and Porsche Boxster, Honda’s rear-wheel-drive sports car packs a high-revving four-cylinder. As a result, the S2000 feels more like a racecar than a typical sports car.

Exterior
The S2000 has a wedge-shaped profile that stands apart from other roadsters. It’s built on a 94.5-inch wheelbase and measures 162.2 inches long overall. It’s slightly longer than BMW’s Z4 but considerably shorter than the Boxster or 350Z. The power-operated top contains a glass rear window with a defroster. A molded top cover is included, and a body-colored hardtop is available.

Integrated roll bars sit behind the twin seats. A clear acrylic wind deflector that mounts between the bars helps reduce turbulence. High-intensity-discharge headlamps and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard. Ground clearance with a full load aboard is 4.2 inches.

Interior
The S2000 two-seater comes equipped with body-hugging, leather-trimmed bucket seats. Shoulder room and elbowroom were increased for 2004, but the range of driving positions is limited because the steering wheel doesn’t adjust and the seats must be positioned manually.

Storage space is at a premium. There’s a tiny bin between the seats and a trunk with only 5 cubic feet of capacity.

The instrument displays are adapted from racecars. The cockpit features net door-panel storage pockets, an aluminum and leather shift knob, aluminum pedals, an aluminum-accented footrest and silver trim accents. XM Satellite Radio and headrest speakers are available.

Under the Hood
Honda’s high-revving 2.2-liter four-cylinder develops 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm. Yielding 162 pounds-feet of torque at 6,800 rpm, the engine mates with a six-speed manual transmission.

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes are standard. Side-impact airbags are not offered.

Driving Impressions
Simply put, the S2000 is a hot number. Razor-sharp steering, disciplined handling and athletic cornering ability blend with excellent braking performance to produce a driving experience that approaches racecar levels.

You’ll need to press the red starter button to fire up the potent four-cylinder. At full throttle, a deep, aggressive growl emanates from the engine. Once it reaches 5,000 rpm or so, the S2000 lunges forward like a rocket.

A penalty for all that performance must be paid in ride comfort — the suspension is stiff and the S2000 is hardly silent at any speed. You’d better plan on traveling light, too.