The sportscar lineage

The launch of the Prelude range in 1978 signalled a return to Hondas with increasingly sportier pretensions, later to be joined by the CRX which demonstrated to a wide audience the amazing flexibility and performance potential of Honda's VTEC system.

But it was the NSX which really showcased Honda's abilities. This widely-acclaimed, all-aluminium supercar brought together rewarding, yet forgiving handling and blistering performance in a mid-engined package that boasted the traditional Honda reliability and build quality. 

Finally, Honda's Type R derivatives - the Integra, Accord and Civic - with their high-revving, no compromise engine technology aimed at knowledgeable enthusiasts, were key precursors to the Honda S2000.


Honda sports cars through the years

1963: S500
1965: S800
1978-1982-1988-1992-1996: Prelude
1983-1988-1992: CRX/Del Sol
1991: NSX; 1994: NSX Type-R; 1995: NSX-T
1991: Beat
1996: Integra Type-R
1997: Civic Type-R
1998: Accord Type-R
1999: S2000
2001: Civic Type-R
2007: Civic Type R


S2000 Timeline

September 1999: Sales start in the UK

March 2002: Range updated with improvements to suspension, greater choice of paint and trim colours, CD audio system. New GT model has pre-fitted aluminium hardtop

June 2002: S2000 gains 4-star rating for occupant safety in Euro NCAP crash test

January 2004: S2000 Updates include chassis stiffening, body rigidity, spring and damper settings, new wheels, steering response, advanced ABS, styling (rear bumper, triple-lens headlamps/tail-lights) and interior (trim, audio, security)

January 2006: S2000 refreshed with DBW throttle; VSA; new wheels; roll-over hoop speakers; new paint options; interior trim


The trophy cabinet

2000
Best Engine 1.8-2.0-litre       International Engine of the Year
User Chooser Car of the Year   Fleet World

2001
Best Open Top Car          AOL Online poll
Best Engine 1.8-2.0-litre       International Engine of the Year

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