It's An Amazing Machine

After reading a few certain reviews concerning the 2003 Honda S2000, I was shocked to notice the poor ratings given to such a revolutionary car. So, as a great admirer and proud owner of a 2003 Sebring Silver Metallic S2000,I would say that this car is indeed exceptional. Before I elaborate further on this vehicle, let me point one minute fact that some people might fail to realize: IT'S A SPORTS CAR! Thus any rating of this car would be based on a sports car appeal. ( I will, though ,comment on non-performance related issues)

ENGINE

The S2000's engine is practically a crotch rocket, requiring the tachometer to reach an exasperating 7300 rpm for maximum torque and 8300 rpm for the astonishing 240 hp.
Some people have found that this skyrocketing requirement can be too much of a nuisance when trying to overtake other vehicles. To a very small degree, I can understand this frustration. When driving the S2K (AP1, as a few aficionados would call it), I usually up-shift at a cowering 3500 rpm. It practically feels like a heavily incapacitated Civic. However,being an optimistic person, I find the engine to be enthralling. Just looking at the digital tachometer gives me goosebumps knowing the full potential of this machine. Where other cars begin redlining, Honda's signature V-TEC begins waking up this monster. This 4-cylinder demon has been reported ,in "Car & Driver",to gorge on a Audi TT,edge out a Porsche Boxster and a Nissan 350Z, and primarily keep up with a 3.0 liter BMW Z4. With 0-60 times ranging anywhere from 5.2 to 6.3 seconds, the S2000 does demand a certain skill and knowledge. If you want to pass that Ice Cream Truck or that MX-6, simply downshift (or patiently wait) and overtake that sunavab*tch. WOOOOO!....pardon me for that sudden surge of enthusiasm.

TRANSMISSION

In order to get the most beneficial use of the F20C engine, Honda has installed a close ratio 6 speed manual transmission. As a small measure in safety, reverse is situated in a position where the driver has to push down on the shift knob and place it into the proper reverse gear.For a beginning stick shift driver, like myself, the transmission can have its good or "bad" aspects. The throws between gears are tremendously short. Thus serving its F1 inspired performance basis. However, such a short distance between gears might have the driver shifting into the wrong gear. Nonetheless, this type of occurrence is extremely rare.

HANDLING

Ahhh yes. I believe that this area of performance is the most under appreciated facet of the Honda S2000. When people come to first think of this car, the 240hp, naturally aspirated,2.0 liter ,Inline 4 cylinder engine comes to their minds first. Which, of course, is an astonishing feat. However, the S2K's handling capabilities should receive proper eminence. Combined with its Bridgestone Potenza tires, high x-bone monocoque frame, and a nearly perfected weight distribution (48/52), the S2000 is a noteworthy track killer....Looking for turns to slice and dice... Tire grip is sharp, and the joy factor is inconspicuously evil..in a fun loving type way..

DESIGN

The exterior design of the Honda S2000 is neither trendy or archaic. The HID lights illuminates the road ahead with much clarity. Besides, it looks cool. (Watch out for those moths!) In not even the closest probability should the looks of this car be compared to a Mazda Miata, for its simple yet elegant appearance is well distinguished and can surely hold its own without remodeling or any other fixtures.

From the fancy red push start button to the placement of the sports shifter, The Honda S2000 stays true to its F1 heritage. The interior dash is not exactly astonishing, and if a beverage is placed in the cup holder, the driver may find it wearisome shifting gears. Nevertheless, the digital instruments sure are dazzling. Most passengers of the S2K find these digital features to be visually appealing.

RIDE QUALITY

In terms of ride quality, the S2000 is a choppy ride. With no traction control system, the Honda S2000 can not be thrashed to its farthest extent in rain, snow, or any other non-ideal driving condition. However, let me remind you that the SPORT-tuned suspension equates to a not so subtle ride. Furthermore, the engine noise may be a little strident. Cruising at 65 mph, the rpm is usually in the 4-5 thousand range.

The ill reputed sound system of the S2K never really disappointed me. It's good enough where you can listen to your favorite radio station or compact disc. Some people have hypothesized that the sound system grabs people's attention, but believe me when I say that the mere looks and prestige of this car gets more of people's interest than you need.

The finely leather trimmed seats are sporty, yet classy. I had a friend, who is about 6'2 and 210 lbs., comment that, while riding passenger side, the S2000 felt spacious for a guy his size. The seating position of the car is neither too low or too high for the driver.

FUEL ECONOMY

The Honda S2000 is a low emissions vehicle that requires premium unleaded gas. With EPA mileage estimates of 20/26, the S2K can take you a long way on a small reservoir of gas. However, I have observed that this car can travel up to 190 miles on a half tank of gas. So please all you environmentally concerned extremists, spare this car and do not set fire to such a machine.

MINISCULE

The convertible top is easy to operate, only taking a few seconds to properly release the hatches and electronically fold down the top down. It would take an extra minute or two installing the tassel. For a roadster, the trunk of the Honda S2000 is roomy. It has enough space for the tassel, and a few extra briefcases. If you want to upgrade the sound system, a pair of subs can definitely fit.

FINALLY

Overall, the Honda S2000 is a marvel in the innovation field. With a sports car that is well rounded in the arts of handling, acceleration, etc.., a sports car fanatic can undeniably appreciate this car. As a disclaimer to anyone reading this article, in no way am I condoning street racing or any other dangerous driving. Always wear your seat belt, and never drink and drive.