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Image Left 2008 S2000 CR Prototype
 

Image credits: © Honda.

MSRP: $34,795-37,795
Invoice: $31,520-34,230

2009 Honda S2000 news, pictures, and information

The 2009 Honda S2000 will be the final model year produced of the award-winning roadster, Honda announced today. First introduced in 1999 for the 2000 model year, the S2000 helped define its §egmènt wîth class-leading handling, engine technology and value. Originally envisioned as a limited-edition tribute to Honda's 50th anniversary, S2000 production was extended in response to customer demand and critical acclaim.

'The S2000 is a sports car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts,' said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. 'It raised the bar for all future roadsters, and it's already considered a classic by many Honda fans.'

As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver yet feel equally at home on a racetrack, this concept further evolved wîth a club racer-inspired S2000 CR trim, first offered in the 2008 model year. The S2000 has been honored wîth multiple awards through the years, including four appearances on Car and Driver Magazine's coveted '10-Best' list.

The S2000 is sold in 64 countries around the world wîth cumulative world-wide sales of over 110,000 since its introduction in 1999. Over 65,000 S2000s have been sold in the Únited States since 1999.

Source - Honda

2009 Honda S2000 Defines Racing-Inspired Performance

Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance wîth everyday usability. As a true sports car that can serve as a practical and fun daily driver and also feel equally at home on a racetrack, this concept is further evolved wîth a club racer-inspired S2000 CR trim, first offered in the 2008 model year.

The S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts wîth a potent 237 horsepower, 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC® 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along wîth tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance. The S2000 includes an electronic Drive-by-Wire (DBW) Throttle System™, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®), Maintenance Minder™ system, standard headrest speakers, an outside temperature gauge and an engine start button. Air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system are standard equipment on the S2000, optional on the S2000 CR for weight savings.

'The Honda S2000 is a true performance vehicle that provides customers wîth an exciting experience behind the wheel,' said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. 'Because the S2000 is a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, it can easily satisfy daily driving needs without sacrificing track-worthy performance.'

The S2000's renowned high-revving, 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine remains the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance technology, delivering 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws.
The S2000 comes equipped wîth a Drive-by-Wire throttle control system eliminating the need for a mechanical connection between the throttle pedal and the engine. This enables continuous electronic monitoring and adjustment of throttle pedal sensitivity to create an ideal match between throttle response and driving conditions. The system also manages the S2000's cruise control function for greater precision.

Honda's VSA makes the S2000 more stable and forgiving during street driving or in inclement weather conditions. Working in concert wîth the Drive-by-Wire system, VSA continuously monitors yaw rate, §teering input, throttle input, and braking pressure to determine if the car is following the driver's intended path, and can independently coordinate each of the disc brakes through the 4-channel anti-lock brake system, along wîth the throttle, to enhance vehicle stability. While this serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled wîth the touch of a button when conditions warrant it. To help provide optimum stopping power, the braking system also features Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.
The S2000's rear-wheel-drive chassis and powertrain layout results in a 50/50 front/rear weight distribution for perfect balance when cornering, while its hybrid monocoque body and 'high X-bone frame' results in exceptional structural rigidity. Combined wîth a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power §teering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise performance package for the enthusiast driver.

Vital Stats
Engine : 2.2 L., 4-cylinder
Power: 237 hp
Torque: 162 ft-lbs

The S2000 has dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags (SRS) for the driver and passenger, three-point seat belts wîth load limiters and automatic tensioning system, roll bar hoops and reinforced windshield posts. For pedestrian safety, the hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots are designed to collapse and help minimize the severity of a head injury to a pedestrian.


Standard features for the S2000 include a power retractable convertible top, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, leather trimmed seats and High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps wîth daytime running lights. An aluminum hardtop and XM® Satellite Radio are available as dealer installed options.

S2000 CR
The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design of the S2000 CR is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack wîth the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. Compared to the S2000, the factory-tuned suspension on the S2000 CR provides more aggressive track-oriented settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction, and aerodynamic spoilers tuned for reduced lift and enhanced chassis balance at high speeds. A removable aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top.
The aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and specially-tuned front and rear spoilers. Exclusive chassis features include a quicker §teering ratio, more aggressive Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires (in place of RE050 tires), a larger rear tire size, firmer springs and dampers, larger stabilizer bars and a darker shade of gray on the wheel design. A rear body brace occupies the area previously occupied by the soft top on the S2000, resulting in additional rigidity on the S2000 CR. Relative to the base S2000, cumulative weight savings total 51 pounds (hardtop installed) and 99 pounds (hardtop removed). A sport-tuned muffler adds to the vehicles heightened performance feel. To save weight, air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD audio system are only available as factory-installed optional equipment.

The S2000 CR interior follows traditional racecar themes. Fabric seating surfaces wîth yellow stitching help create a sporty appearance while synthetic suede bolsters enhance lateral grip. An exclusive spherical aluminum shift knob on the S2000 CR resides 12.6 mm lower for a 6 percent reduction in shift stroke compared to the conventional S2000 cylindrical shift knob (aluminum/leather wrapped). Additionally, shift load effort increases by 10 percent for even more direct feedback when engaging a gear. The S2000 CR instrument panel meters include a 'peak-power indicator.' When the engine is operating at peak power, a round, green light illuminates to the right of the digital speedometer.

The design and engineering concept for the S2000 is to deliver race-car-like performance and handling-something an enthusiast driver could use and enjoy, even in everyday driving situations. In addition, the S2000 is intended to be a modern, socially-responsible automobile wîth low emissions. The S2000's roadster layout also captures the spirit of the legendary high-performance sports cars of the past, as well as Honda's very first sports car, the S500 roadster. However, the S2000 makes no attempt to be a retro sports car. It is a unique, Honda interpretation of a modern sports car - wîth high performance, state-of-the-art technology, style, and Honda durability, quality and refinement.

For 2009, the S2000 is available in six colors, including, Laguna Blue Pearl, Chicane Silver Metallic, New Formula Red, Rio Yellow Pearl, Berlina Black and Grand Prix White. The S2000 CR is available in four colors: Rio Yellow Pearl; Grand Prix White; Berlina Black; and the CR exclusive, Apex Blue Pearl.

Source - Honda
Unveiled first as a concept (The SSM) at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, the Honda S2000 is a roadster manufactured by the Honda Motor Company. 'SSM' stood for 'Sports Study Model' and was a rear wheel drive roadster that was powered by a 2.0 L inline 4-cylinder engine. The concept featured a push-button starter and central division between the passenger and driver. (Honda claimed that this feature improved the vehicle's rigidity.) The concept featured a 50/50 weight distribution and all of the body panels were aluminum. For the next several automotive shows, the SSM appeared unchanged and hinted at the eventual production vehicle to be produced. Later, Honda made the announcement that a production version of the SSM would be introduced.

The S2000 was launched in April 1999 in world markets to celebrate Honda's 50th Anniversary. The name was chosen for its engine displacement of 2 L and carried on in the tradition of the S500, S600 and S800 roadsters of the ‘60's.

Featuring a wedge-shaped profile that sets it apart from all other roadsters, the Honda S2000 is a high-performance two-seat roadster. Feeling more like a racecar than just an average sports car, the S200 is a rear-wheel-drive sports vehicle with a high-revving four-cylinder engine. The S2000 measures 162.6 inches long and rides on a 94-5-inch wheelbase. The fancy power-operated top contains a glass rear window with a defroster. The S2000 also came standard with a molded top cover though a body-colored hardtop is available. Through the car's lifetime, the S2000 received several revisions that included changes to the engine, gearbox, suspension and interior and exterior.

Two model designations of the S2000 officially exist. The initial launch model was dubbed the AP1 and the AP2 name was given to the models produced from 2004 on and contained substantial revisions to both the suspension and drive-train.

The AP1 was introduced in 1999 until 2004 and was assembled in Takanezawa R&D Plant in Tochigi, Japan. This first model featured a 6-speed manual transmission, an overall length of 162.2 inch, a width of 68,9 inches and a height of 50.0 inches. The engine was a 1,997 cu F20C I4 and it rode on a 94.5-inch wheelbase. The AP1 featured front-mid-engine, and rear wheel drive layout with power that was delivered by a 1,997 cc (122 cu in) F20C inline 4-cylinder DOHC-VTEX engine that produced 240 hp at 8,300 rpm and had 153 ft/lb of torque at 7,500 rpm. European versions were rated at a slightly lower rate of 237 hp while Japanese models were rated at 247 hp at 8,6000 rpm. The engine was joined to a six-speed manual transmission and Torsen limited slip differential. The S2000 was capable of achieving the highest specific power per unit volume of any mass-produced naturally-aspirated automobile piston engine due to its high-revving nature for a car engine and produced 123.5 hp per liter.

Constructed using a rigid X-bone monocoque frame, the roadster had a very high level of safety and handling. Other features that the AP1 came with were independent double wishbone suspension, integrated roll hoops and electrically-assisted steering. Standard on the AP1 was 16-inch wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S-02 tires, and the engine was both compact and lightweight and was mounted entirely behind the front axle. Standard was an electrically powered vinyl top with internal cloth lining, and an OEM hardtop was available for an additional expense.

For the 2001 model year, the S2000 was basically unchanged though the radio was upgraded to include a clock. The following year the suspension settings were updated and the plastic rear windows were replaced with glass and an electric defroster was introduced. Others revisions for this year included updated tail lamps, a revised engine control unit and an upgraded radio. Production of the AP1 continued until 2004 when production was shifted to the Suzuka plant in Suxuka, Mie, Japan and the AP2 took over.

The chassis designation of AP2 was given to the S2000 in the 2004 model year and this lasted until 2009. The AP2 measured an overall length of 162.2 inches, had a width of 68.9 inches and had a height of 50.0 inches. The wheelbase was measured at 94.5 inches and featured 17-inch wheels and Bridgestone RE-050 tires along with a retuned suspension that reduced the vehicle's ‘tendency to over-steer'. The suspension geometry was modified in the AP2 to improve stability by reducing toe-in changes under comering loads, and the spring rates and shock absorber damping was also altered.

The AP2 also received changes to the exterior as well upon its introduction. All new front and rear bumpers were showcased, along with revised headlight assemblies, oval-tipped exhausts and new LED tail-lights. A larger version of the F20C was introduced for the North American market only, dubbed the F22C1, the engine's stroke was lengthened and the displacement was increased to 2,157 cc. The redline was reduced from 9,000 rpm to 8,000 rpm while peak torque increased 6% to 162 ft/lb at 6,2000 rpm. Though power output was the same, Honda quoted that the F22C1 had more torque at lower rpm than the F20C. The F20C was used in all other markets, while the F22C1 was used exclusively in the North American market for '04 and '05. Honda also changed the transmission gear ratios by shortening the first four gears and lengthening the last two. To improve drive-train longevity by reducing shock loads, the inclusion of a clutch release delay valve with introduced.

For 2006 the S2000 now came with a drive by wire throttle, Vehicle Stability Assist system, one new exterior color (Laguna Blue Pearl) and new wheels. Inside the S2000 received updated seats, additional headrest padding where previously had been helmet depressions and screens, and additional stereo speakers integrated into the headrest. The F22C1 engine finally made it over to the Japanese market and replaced the F20C with a very specified power output of 239 hp.

The only changes that the S2000 received for '08 was a new wheel design, an altered gauge layout and suspension tweaks. This was the first time that the S2000 was available in more than one trim level. The S2000's main competition was other two-seat roadsters, the Pontiac Solstice GXP, Audi TT and the BMW Z4.

The S2000 CR made its world debut at the '07 New York International Auto Show on April 4th, 2007('CR' stands for 'club racer') and came with an all-new track-ready package. The CR had an even more enhanced racecar feeling with its specially tuned suspension, additional chassis bracing and a removable hardtop that increased chassis rigidity. Though they can be added, CR models didn't come with normal comfort features such as AC and radio, to save weight, they also came with a standard hardtop instead of the retractable soft-top. Featuring functional aerodynamic front and rear spoilers that increased down-force and improved road-hugging at high speeds, the S2000 CR weighed 51 lbs less than the regular S2000 with the hardtop on, and an incredible 99 lbs lighter with the hardtop removed. Also to reduce the weight even more and affect a lower center of gravity, the spare tire was removed.

The CR was dubbed the Type-S in Japan and included a quicker steering rack, stiffer suspension and all-new more-aggressive Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires. The CR received widened rear tires from 245/40R-17 to 255/40R-17. Wind-tunnel tested and claiming to reduce the overall coefficient of lift by 70-80% the CR received an updated body kit that was composed of a redesigned front clip, rear bumper and a large spoiler. Prices of the Honda S2000 CR started at $36,300 and it went on sale in the fall of 2007.

Honda officially announced its plans to continue both trim levels of the S2000 unchanged for the 2009 model year. The MSRP was bumped up to $34,695 for the base trim and $36,695 for the CR trim. At the end of the 2009 model year, production will cease for the S2000.

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Arrow Right 2009 Honda models
Honda Accord
Honda Civic
Honda CR-V
Honda Element
Honda Element Dog-friendly Concept
Honda Fit
Honda Odyssey
Honda Pilot
Honda Ridgeline
Honda S2000 Ultimate Edition
2009 Honda Concepts
Honda FC Sport Concept
Honda Insight Concept Hybrid

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Audi TT($35,200-46,540)
BMW 3 Series($33,400-66,150)
Nissan 350Z($36,870-42,570)
 
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Volvo
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Audi A1 Sportback Concept
BMW 1 Series
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Chevrolet Colorado
Chevrolet HHR
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Honda: 2001-2010
Similar Automakers
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Manufacturer Website

Honda
Monthly Sales FiguresVolume
April 2013117,100 
March 2013121,938 
February 201396,623 
January 201384,137 
December 2012116,740 
November 2012104,334 
October 201294,810 
September 2012102,845 
August 2012115,675 
July 2012104,119 
June 2012109,438 
May 2012119,411 
(More Details)

 
Accord
Civic
CR-V
CR-Z
CRX
Element
FCX Clarity
Fit
Insight
Odyssey
Pilot
Prelude
Ridgeline
S2000
S600
S800

Image Left 2008 S2000 CR Prototype
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