2007 Honda S2000 [ 2008 ]
Honda S2000
Overall Score - 8.7 (Very Good)
The S2000 impresses reviewers with its rocket-like speed, sporty handling and long history of manufacturer reliability. Nevertheless, its stiff suspension and cramped interior cabin deter drivers from using this vehicle for daily commutes. Many auto writers also criticize the S2000 for maintaining its dated design and lack of convenience features in a class that's continuously striving to innovate. If you're in the market for a sports car, you should also consider the Nissan 350Z and Mazda MX-5 Miata.
The 2007 Honda S2000 is praised for its perfectly-matched powertrain and exhilarating performance and handling, as well as standard Honda-level reliability. Still, most auto reviewers assert that it's built more for recreation than running errands. According to Forbes, the S2000 "is an exhilarating concoction of race-bred technology and sleek styling." Even so, many auto writers assert that its exterior and interior design are dated.
Most reviewers agree that the S2000's 237-horsepower four-cylinder engine is a good match for its six-speed manual transmission. According to Kelley Blue Book, the powerplant is "strong, but only after you get the tachometer above 5000 rpm." Edmunds asserts, "In a world of bloated sedans and SUVs, this roadster is a refreshing example of purity." However, Forbes cautions that the S2000 "is best suited for car enthusiasts willing to put up with its firm suspension, tight accommodations and high-revving engine for the sake of adrenaline-pumping performance and handling."
As for the exterior, Cars.com says, "Simply put, the S2000 is a hot number." Still, auto writers express disappointment with the fact that it looks largely the same way it did when it was first launched in 1999. Edmunds explains, "There's never been a full redesign."
The Honda S2000's two-passenger cabin also appears dated. In fact, many reviewers complain of its limited and outmoded interior features. Moreover, its tight seating arrangement affords little legroom to both driver and passenger and contributes to an overall lack of comfort. Consumer Guide says, "Large people have precious little room to spare" and "may find [the] seats too confining."
IntelliChoice gives the 2007 Honda S2000 a rating of "Excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class -- and even designates it an "IntelliChoice Best In Class" winner for "Lowest Maintenance Costs" and "Lowest Operating Costs." Moreover, the S2000 receives IntelliChoice's "2007 SmartChoice Fuel Costs" award. Edmunds asserts that the S2000 offers a "high level of performance for the price." Consumer Guide adds, "The S2000 is pure sports car fun. It's a bit stiff-riding and noisy, and the Mazda MX-5 is a little more practical and a lot less costly, but for motoring enjoyment the spicy S2000 rivals the Porsche Boxster and BMW Z4 for thousands less."
S2000 Performance - 9.0 (Excellent)
Reviewers, on balance, agree that the Honda S2000 offers a thrilling ride marked by superb sports car handling. Nevertheless, many warn that its stiff suspension makes it unsuitable for daily commutes. "Make no bones about it: The S2000 is pure sports car, so make sure that's what you want before signing on the bottom line," says MarketWatch. continue
S2000 Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
While most auto writers find the S2000's sporty exterior design attractive, many assert that it's worn out its welcome. "The 2007 Honda S2000 is still a fun and desirable roadster, but its lack of features and aging design are increasingly becoming liabilities," says Edmunds. continue
S2000 Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
Like its ride quality, most reviewers agree that the S2000's interior design doesn't lend itself well to daily driving. "The cockpit retains a snug fit better suited for hard runs on back roads than daily commuting," says Edmunds. Reviewers complain of limited features and a dated design. Even so, many auto writers assert that the S2000's layout is functional. continue
S2000 Safety - 8.9 (Very Good)
Government crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration award the 2007 Honda S2000 a perfect score of 5 stars in rollover and side-crash tests, as well as 4 out of 5 stars in frontal-crash tests. continue
S2000 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2007 Honda S2000 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Honda offers impressive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue
