MSRP: $34,300 - $37,300
Invoice: $31,070 - $33,781
MPG: 18 City / 25 Hwy
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U.S.News Scores

Overall:8.6
Performance:9.1
Exterior:6.6
Interior:6.0
Safety:8.9
Reliability:8.0
Pros and Cons
  • Class-leading six-speed manual transmission
  • Sports car performance thrills enthusiasts
  • Limited edition Club Racer trim offered for 2008
  • Suspension system deemed too stiff for daily driving
  • Cramped cabin and few standard features
  • Dated interior and exterior design

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Honda S2000 - What the Auto Press Says

The S2000's ranking is based upon its racecar-like performance, unique body style, and impressive safety record. Altogether, the Honda S2000 proves to be a top choice for anyone wanting a fast affordable sports car or convertible.

The 2008 Honda S2000, which Forbes describes as "an exhilarating concoction of race-bred technology and sleek styling," is by all accounts praised for its ability to perform at rocket-like speeds and its attractive exterior design. Still, reviews concede that when compared to other vehicles in its class, the S2000 appears dated. What's more, its stiff suspension contributes to a harsh ride and its cramped cabin can make comfort for larger passengers nearly impossible. Many reviews assert that these factors prevent the S2000 from being a suitable daily driver.

In addition to the base model, the 2008 Honda S2000 is also available in a track-oriented Club Racer (CR) trim.

  • "Introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model, Honda's S2000 roadster has been nothing but good fun, thanks to its excellent handling and 50/50 weight balance, but especially because of its sprightly 237-bhp, 2.2-liter 4-cylinder engine that sings all the way up to its impressive 8000-rpm redline." - Road and Track
  • "This S2000 need not worry about its soul getting exorcised. Indeed, there is much left as it heads into its ninth model year, and it is unlocked in the new CR (Club Racer) edition." - AutoWeek
  • "It 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. It's a weekend club-racer's delight. " - Forbes

S2000 Performance - 9.1 (Excellent)

The Honda S2000, which holds one of the highest performance rankings in the affordable sports car class, is a track racer that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds. This year's introduction of a Club Racer trim is meant to enhance the vehicle's overall track performance. On balance, auto critics are impressed by its explosive power and racecar-like handling. Read More

S2000 Exterior - 6.6 (Mediocre)

The S2000, which has never undergone an exterior redesign, is largely viewed by the auto press as dated. In an increasingly competitive class, this has become a liability. Subsequently, the S2000's exterior ranks in the bottom half of its class. Though the CR trim looks significantly different, critics still aren't impressed. According to Car and Driver: "The whole affair is affixed with black supports that look more like a back yard racer's weekend concoction than factory pieces, but who are we to argue if it works?" Read More

S2000 Interior - 6.0 (Mediocre)

Despite its supportive seats, auto writers find the S2000's lack of standard interior features and cramped layout to be significant pitfalls. "Like most two-seaters, the interior can be a tight fit for tall or portly riders," says Forbes. Read More

S2000 Safety - 8.9 (Very Good)

The 2008 Honda S2000 does well in federal government crash tests -- earning perfect marks for rollover and side-impact crashes. It isn't, however, safe for children to ride in. Read More

S2000 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2008 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). The 2008 S2000 features a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. What's more, it carries Honda's reputation for superior build quality. Read More

Review Last Updated: 2/18/09