Honda's S2000: A Dream or a Distant Memory?
In a world where automotive legends often fade into obscurity, Honda's iconic S2000 has left an indelible mark on the hearts of car enthusiasts. But here's where it gets controversial: despite the internal desire to revive this legendary roadster, the business reality paints a different picture.
Honda, with its recent release of the Prelude, has expressed an appetite to bring back the S2000 nameplate. However, the numbers don't quite add up for another low-volume, niche convertible. Chief Engineer of Prelude, Tomoyuki Yamagami, revealed this dilemma to Australian media at the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show.
"Every Honda employee loves the S2000, and I'd love to build another one someday," Yamagami-san said through an interpreter. But the question remains: is it feasible?
The original S2000, produced from 1999 to 2009, was a masterpiece in its own right. Powered by the F20C engine, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder that revved to an exhilarating 9000rpm, it delivered a thrilling driving experience. The Australian version boasted 176kW and 208Nm, while the Japanese and US markets received an even more potent 2.2-litre engine in the AP2 form, increasing torque to 220Nm.
What made the S2000 truly special was its unique powertrain and architecture, unlike any other Honda model. This exclusivity, however, comes at a cost.
When asked about potential collaborations, similar to the Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ or the Mazda MX-5/Abarth 124 Spider partnerships, Yamagami-san dismissed the idea. "We know what Honda's S2000 represents, so preserving Honda's DNA is crucial," he explained.
Honda could draw from its existing parts bin, as seen with the 2026 Prelude, which utilizes the Civic platform and powertrain. However, finding a suitable platform for the S2000's unique characteristics is a challenge.
The main hurdles are cost and sales. With Honda's focus shifting towards hybrid and electric powertrains, resources are limited for low-volume models. Yamagami-san highlighted the expense of conventional sports cars, making them inaccessible to younger generations. "Even our new Prelude, a combination of the Civic, Civic Type R, and HEV technologies, is still considered too expensive by buyers," he added.
When the S2000 first arrived in Australia in 1999, it was priced at $69,950 before on-road costs. Adjusted for inflation, that's equivalent to a staggering $140,000 in 2025. Such prices make it challenging to justify a revival.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the car; it's about the experience and the community it fosters. The S2000 represented more than just a sports car; it embodied a lifestyle. So, while the desire for another S2000 is palpable, the business realities paint a different picture.
What do you think? Is it time to let go of the S2000 dream, or should Honda find a way to make it happen? Share your thoughts in the comments; we'd love to hear your opinions on this iconic Honda model.
