Honda S2000 CR Review: Peak Roadster Driving Experience

Why the S2000 CR Defines Roadster Perfection

Driving enthusiasts hunting for the purest open-top experience often face a dilemma: modern roadsters offer refinement, but lack that raw, unfiltered connection. After analyzing Throttle House's canyon run in the rare Honda S2000 CR, I believe this iconic model solves that problem. This isn't just nostalgia – it's about engineering that prioritizes driver engagement over lap times. The CR variant (Club Racer) amplifies this with stiffer suspension, aerodynamic tweaks, and increased rarity. What makes it special today? Let's break down the experience.

Engineering Excellence: The S2000's Technical Foundation

Honda's front-mid-engine layout places the powerplant entirely behind the front axle, creating near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution. As the Throttle House hosts demonstrated on California's twisty roads, this translates to instantaneous turn-in response. Unlike front-heavy cars that resist direction changes, the S2000 rotates eagerly – like swinging a baseball bat versus heaving a bowling ball on a pole. The AP2 model featured here revs to 8,000 RPM (tuned beyond stock), delivering its 237 horsepower through a legendary close-ratio gearbox. Each gear tops out at practical speeds: 35 mph (1st), 55 mph (2nd), 78 mph (3rd). This means you actually use the entire tachometer during spirited drives, not just highway merges.

The Driving Experience: Sensation Over Speed

The magic lies in how the S2000 amplifies feedback. While modern Porsches or Z4s are objectively faster, the Honda makes 60 mph feel like 90. Its lightweight construction (2,800 lbs) and stiff chassis transmit every ripple in the pavement. Key observations from the test drive:

• The engine demands commitment: Power lives above 6,000 RPM, rewarding drivers who row through the gears. The Mugen exhaust amplifies the F20C's metallic wail.
• Limit handling is approachable: On sticky tires and KW Clubsport coilovers (a common upgrade), the CR breaks away progressively. Oversteer is predictable and easily managed.
• Steering shortcomings fade: While the electric rack lacks feel, the chassis communicates so vividly through the seat and pedals that you hardly notice.

Critical Note: The CR's fixed hardtop and aggressive wing (functional downforce) sacrifice some practicality but enhance structural rigidity. The cabin remains spartan – no telescoping wheel, minimal storage, and a high seating position. This isn't a grand tourer; it's a focused tool.

Why Modern Roadsters Haven't Replaced It

The Mazda MX-5 remains brilliant, but as Throttle House co-host James noted, it’s the "silly, giggly" counterpart. The S2000 feels more serious – "Black Betty" to the Miata’s "MMMBop." Even today’s GR Supra or 718 Spider can’t replicate its specific thrills:

• Rev-happiness is extinct: New emissions rules killed naturally aspirated screamers like the F20C.
• Gear ratios are taller: Modern manuals prioritize fuel economy, reducing shift frequency.
• Weight compounds: Safety tech adds pounds, dulling feedback.

My analysis: Honda could revive this formula today. Their current Civic Type R proves manuals and engaging dynamics still sell. A new S2000 would need telescoping steering, updated materials, and the Civic’s 2.0L turbo tuned for response – not outright power.

S2000 Buyer Checklist & Resources

Considering a used S2000 CR? Prioritize these based on Throttle House’s insights:

1. Verify suspension modifications: Stock CR suspension is punishing. KW or Ohlins coilovers transform ride quality without losing composure.
2. Check for over-revving: Request a compression test. High-RPM abuse can damage valve springs.
3. Assess interior wear: Bolster tears on CR seats are common. Alcantara repairs are costly.
4. Test all gears: Synchros in 2nd and 3rd wear fastest. Grinding indicates expensive rebuilds.
5. Drive top-up: Fixed hardtops can develop leaks or rattles. Listen carefully.

Recommended Resources:

• S2KI.com Forums: The definitive knowledge base with DIY guides and market trends (essential for spotting inflated prices).
• Honda Service Manuals: Complex repairs like valve adjustments require factory specs.
• KW Suspension Clubsports: Ideal for street/track balance (avoid cheaper coilovers that ruin ride).

Final Verdict: The Unmatched Roadster

The S2000 CR isn’t about nostalgia; it’s about physics. Its combination of rev-happy powerband, telepathic chassis, and short gearing creates moments modern cars can’t replicate. As Throttle House proved, you exit the cabin buzzing – not from speed, but from the purity of controlling a machine perfectly tuned for backroads. While prices for clean CRs now exceed $60,000, they represent a disappearing breed: analog sports cars that communicate everything.

Question for you: If Honda revived the S2000 with minor updates (telescoping wheel, modern infotainment), would you choose it over a new GR Supra or MX-5? Share your dream spec below!