Honda S2000 1999-2009
Honda's free-revving S2000 roadster was a hit with owners and comes 4th in our best fast Hondas list
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In the late nineties Honda mixed its advanced engineering with a two-seat convertible body to create a product to rival the likes of the Porsche Boxster: the S2000. As with the NSX and Civic Type Rs, the bespoke 2.0-litre VTEC was the engine that defined this car, delivering 240bhp and revving all the way to 9,000rpm.
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Early models were notorious for darty handling in the wrong hands, but this meant the S2000 had the agility of a housefly. Honda retained this for a facelifted car in 2004, but added more stability with a re-tuned rear suspension set-up. Cornering performance was helped by the roadster’s front-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout, giving great weight distribution.
The stiff bodyshell meant the S2000 felt composed for a convertible, and with the bonus of the wind in your hair ramping up the sensation of speed (not that it needed it), this thrilling Honda was a tactile delight.
Honda S2000: key specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl
Power: 240bhpTorque: 208NmTransmission: Six-speed manual, rear-wheel drive0-62mph: 6.6 secondsTop speed: 150mphOn sale: 1999-2009
The all-time best fast Hondas
1. Honda NSX 1990-20052. Honda Civic Type R 2017-date3. Honda Civic Type R 2001-20054. Honda S2000 1999-20095. Honda Integra Type R 1995-20016. Honda Accord Type R 1998-20027. Honda Civic Type R 1997-20008. Honda Civic Type R 2007-20109. Honda CR-X VTEC 1989-199210. Honda S800 1967-1970
Fast Hondas Special
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