The Honda S2000 is a legendary roadster that car enthusiasts love. If you want to buy one, you’re in the right place. This guide will help you find a Honda S2000 for sale and tell you what to look for. We’ll cover its history, current prices, and everything you need to know to make a smart choice about this exciting sports car.
| Key Takeaways |
| • The Honda S2000 was made from 1999 to 2009, with two main types: AP1 and AP2
• Known for engines that rev high, perfect weight balance, and great handling • Average used price is about $27,933 in 2024, and prices are going up • Look for cars that have been well cared for and have full service records • Think about ongoing costs like gas, tires, maintenance, and insurance • Join the S2000 fan community for help and to share your excitement |
The Legacy of the Honda S2000 (1999-2009)
Honda made the S2000 from 1999 to 2009, building about 110,673 cars. They created it to celebrate Honda’s 50th birthday, and drivers quickly fell in love with it. Honda’s engineers worked hard to make a pure sports car that showed off their skills and racing background.
There are two main types of S2000:
- AP1 (1999-2003): Had a 2.0-liter VTEC engine with 240 horsepower, and could rev up to 9,000 RPM, which made it special
- AP2 (2004-2009): Had a 2.2-liter engine that didn’t rev as high but had more power at lower speeds, fixing complaints about the earlier model
Both types are famous for their high-revving engines, perfect balance, and great handling. These features have kept the S2000 popular, even years after Honda stopped making it. Because Honda made only a limited number and didn’t replace it with a new model, the S2000 has become even more special and collectible.
Check out our full Honda collection to see how the S2000 compares to other fast Hondas.
Why the Honda S2000 is a True Driver’s Car
The Honda S2000 is a great car for drivers because:
- It has a VTEC engine that revs very high (up to 9,000 RPM in AP1 models), making driving really exciting
- It’s light, weighing only about 2,800 pounds, which makes it quick and easy to handle
- It’s rear-wheel drive, giving it balanced handling and good control in turns
- It has a 6-speed manual transmission that lets you change gears precisely and use all of the engine’s power
- The steering and chassis give you great feedback, so you feel connected to the road
Compared to newer roadsters like the Mazda MX-5, BMW Z4, or Porsche Boxster, the S2000 feels more raw and engaging to drive. Its engine doesn’t use turbochargers, and it doesn’t have many electronic aids, so you feel more connected to the car and the road. Drivers love it because it’s challenging and fun to drive. As cars become more digital, the S2000’s old-school feel has made it even more appealing.
Look at our selection of fast convertibles to see how the S2000 compares to other open-top sports cars.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Honda S2000
When looking for a Honda S2000 for sale, keep these things in mind:
1. Maintenance History
Look for cars that have been well cared for and have full service records. Regular oil changes and proper maintenance are very important for the S2000’s high-performance engine. A detailed maintenance log can tell you a lot about how the car has been treated. Pay special attention to records of valve adjustments, which are crucial for keeping the engine running well and lasting long.
2. Mileage Considerations
S2000s with low mileage cost more, but well-maintained high-mileage cars can still be good buys. Try to find a balance between mileage and overall condition. Don’t automatically avoid cars with higher miles, as the S2000’s strong engine can handle high mileage if it’s been well cared for. But be ready to pay more for cars in great condition with low miles, especially as they become rarer.
3. Common Issues to Check
- Clutch wear: The S2000’s clutch can be tough, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Test for smooth engagement and any slipping when accelerating.
- Transmission synchros: Listen for grinding noises when shifting, especially in lower gears. Second gear synchros are known to be weak in some models.
- Soft-top condition: Look for tears, leaks, or wear in the convertible top. Replacing it can be expensive, so keep this in mind when budgeting.
- Suspension components: Check for worn bushings or signs of modification. While many S2000s have been upgraded, poorly done modifications can hurt handling.
- Rust: Look at the rear wheel arches and underneath the car for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters or near the coast.
4. AP1 vs. AP2 Differences
Decide if you prefer the higher-revving AP1 models or the slightly more refined AP2 versions. Each has its strengths, so test drive both if you can. AP1 models offer a more raw, high-energy experience, while AP2 models have a bit more power at lower speeds and are a bit more refined. Think about how you like to drive and what you’ll use the car for when choosing between the two types.
Learn how to properly check a used car before you buy.
Where to Find the Best Honda S2000 Listings
To find the best Honda S2000 listings, try these options:
- Online marketplaces: Websites like CarGurus, AutoTrader, and Cars.com often have many S2000s to choose from. You can set specific search options and compare prices across different areas.
- Enthusiast forums: S2KI.com and other Honda-specific forums often have classified sections. These can be great places to find well-maintained cars owned by knowledgeable fans.
- Specialty dealerships: Some dealers focus on performance or Japanese vehicles. They might have a carefully chosen selection of high-quality S2000s and can offer valuable expert advice.
- Auction sites: Bring a Trailer and similar enthusiast auction sites often feature well-maintained S2000s. These can be great for finding rare or exceptionally well-preserved examples.
When using these platforms:
- Set up alerts for new listings that match what you’re looking for. This can help you be one of the first to know when a desirable car becomes available.
- Compare prices across different sources to make sure you’re getting a fair deal. Remember that prices can vary a lot based on condition, mileage, and location.
- Read seller descriptions carefully and ask for more photos or information if needed. Don’t be afraid to ask for detailed pictures of known problem areas or maintenance records.
Using a service like Carsnip’s Honda S2000 listings can help you search through multiple sources and find the best deals in your area. This can save time and give you a good overview of the market, helping you make an informed decision.
Honda S2000 Price Trends & Investment Potential
Honda S2000 Average Prices (2015-2023)
2015
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2019
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2021
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2023
The Honda S2000 has been going up in value recently, making it interesting for both car fans and investors. Here’s what you should know about S2000 prices:
- Average used price: About $27,933 (as of 2024), which is much higher than in past years
- Price range: $16,500 to $143,000, depending on condition and rarity. This wide range shows that people really value S2000s that are in great condition or are rare models.
- Recent trends: Prices have gone up by about 1.28% in the last 30 days, which suggests people are still very interested in these cars and they might keep going up in value
Things that affect S2000 values include:
- Mileage: S2000s with low miles are worth a lot more, often selling for prices well above average
- Condition: Well-kept, unmodified cars are most wanted. Original cars that haven’t been changed are becoming harder to find and more valuable.
- Special editions: Models like the Club Racer (CR) are especially valuable because they’re rare and made for track use
- Color: Some rare colors might sell for higher prices. For example, Spa Yellow and New Formula Red are often sought after by collectors.
The S2000 is thought to be a future classic, with the potential to keep going up in value. The fact that Honda made only a limited number, its high performance, and growing nostalgia for old-school sports cars all contribute to its increasing value. However, like with any investment, there are no guarantees. Market trends can change, and things like the economy can affect classic car values. Buy an S2000 mainly because you enjoy it, with the possibility of it going up in value as a bonus.
Check out our selection of classic coupes and roadsters to see how the S2000 compares to other collectible sports cars.
Ownership Costs and Maintenance Considerations
While the Honda S2000 is generally reliable, it’s important to think about ongoing costs:
Fuel Economy
18/23 MPG (City/Highway)
Tires
High-performance, expensive
Maintenance
Regular oil changes, valve adjustments
Insurance
Higher due to performance nature
- Fuel economy: Expect about 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. This isn’t bad for a sports car, but if you drive it hard often, you might use more gas.
- Insurance: Can be higher because it’s a performance car and is becoming more collectible. Look for special classic car insurance for possibly better rates.
- Tires: High-performance tires can be expensive to replace. Plan for regular replacements, especially if you take it to the track.
- Maintenance: Regular oil changes and valve adjustments are very important. Because the S2000’s engine revs so high, you might need to change the oil more often.
Common maintenance items to budget for:
- Clutch replacement (every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on how you drive). The S2000’s clutch can wear out faster, especially in heavy traffic.
- Timing chain tensioner (a known weak point on some models). Replacing this early can prevent more serious engine damage.
- Soft top replacement or repair. Sun and regular use can wear it out over time.
- Suspension parts (bushings, ball joints). These might need attention, especially on cars with high miles or those used on tracks.
While parts are generally available, some might become harder to find as the S2000 gets older. Getting to know a Honda specialist or joining owner’s clubs can be helpful for maintenance support. These connections can help you find knowledgeable mechanics, hard-to-find parts, and valuable maintenance tips specific to the S2000.
Check out our range of reliable Honda models known for lasting a long time and having reasonable maintenance costs.
The S2000 Community and Ownership Experience
Owning a Honda S2000 is more than just having a sports car; it’s joining a passionate group of fans. Here’s what you can expect:
- Owner’s clubs: Local and national groups often organize meetups and drives. These events are great for meeting other S2000 owners, sharing experiences, and learning more about your car.
- Online forums: Valuable resources for fixing problems and making modifications. Sites like S2KI.com offer lots of knowledge, from DIY maintenance guides to discussions about performance upgrades.
- Track days: Many owners enjoy taking their S2000s to race tracks. The car’s balanced handling and high-revving engine make it great for track use.
- Car shows: The S2000’s growing status as a classic makes it popular at events. Going to shows can be a great way to show off your car and meet other enthusiasts.
The S2000 community is known for being enthusiastic and willing to help other owners. Whether you need maintenance tips, want to upgrade your car’s performance, or just want to share your love for the S2000, you’ll find a welcoming group of like-minded fans. This sense of community can make owning an S2000 even more enjoyable, providing support, friendship, and chances to fully enjoy your car.
Join the community of passionate drivers with our selection of fast Hondas.
Conclusion: Is the Honda S2000 Right for You?
The Honda S2000 offers a special mix of performance, reliability, and potential to go up in value that few other sports cars can match. Its high-revving engine, precise handling, and timeless design make it fun to drive and own. The car’s old-school feel and pure driving experience have become even more appealing now that most cars are full of computers. However, it’s important to approach buying one with your eyes open:
- Do your research and be patient in finding the right car. Since S2000s are old and might have been driven hard, taking your time to find a well-maintained one can save you headaches later.
- Plan for ongoing maintenance and possible repairs. While generally reliable, the S2000 is a performance car that needs careful attention to keep it in top shape.
- Think about how you’ll use the car (daily driver, weekend fun, track car). How you plan to use it will affect which model year and condition level to look for.
- Test drive both AP1 and AP2 models to see which you like best. The differences between the two generations can be big, and personal preference is important.
If you want a pure driving experience and are willing to put in the effort to maintain it, the Honda S2000 can be a really rewarding car to own. Its growing status as a classic and strong fan following suggest that well-kept examples will continue to be sought after for years to come. The S2000 offers a unique combination of Honda reliability, sports car thrills, and the potential to go up in value over time.
Ready to find your dream Honda S2000? Start your search with our large selection of used S2000 models. With the right research and patience, you’ll soon be enjoying one of the most exciting roadsters ever made. Remember, owning an S2000 is not just about the car itself, but also about joining a passionate community and experiencing a piece of car history.
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