Honda S2000 Buyer's Guide Shows Us What to Look For and Avoid

Difficult Task

Even before the overall car market surged a couple of years ago, the Honda S2000 was steadily gaining in value thanks to strong interest in the sporty roadster from both enthusiasts and collectors alike. Now, with prices sitting at all-time highs, those looking for an S2000 are taking more of a risk than ever before when plunking down their hard-earned cash, so it helps to know what you're looking for/at. Luckily, Car and Driver is here to help with a brand new buyer's guide updated for the new year.

Photos: Honda

Which Generation?

C&D prefers AP2 models for their added low-end torque and updated suspension, but most enthusiasts seem to gravitate toward the high-revving AP1. Either way you go, you won't be disappointed, but the rag suggests going for 2002-2003 models given the fact that they offer a few key updates such as a glass rear window and interior upgrades.

Photos: Honda

Power Delivery

Both the F20C and F22C1 are undeniably reliable powerplants, though they differ a bit in terms of how they make power. While the F20C in the AP1 churned out 240 horsepower at 8,300 rpm and 153 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm, the AP2's F22C1 makes its 240 horsepower and a slightly lower 8,000 rpm, and 162 pound-feet of torque at 7,000 rpm.

Photos: Honda

Problem Areas

There are, of course, some problem areas to look out for when shopping for an S2000, as is the case with any used car. Those looking to purchase one should inspect the soft top condition, as it can be pricey and difficult to replace, as well as the wheel bearings and transmission synchros, in particular.

Photos: Honda

Other Hot Spots

Aside from having a professional check the car out and specifically look for those items, as well as cracked retainers, buyers should check the dash for cracks, as well as the transmission to ensure that it's not popping out of gear. 

Photos: Honda

Service and Mods

The key here - as is the case with all used cars - is service history, while buyers will also want to look out for any possible modifications. The S2000 is an extremely popular vehicle to modify, which can be a good thing or bad thing depending on the quality of work. It's also worth noting that generally, modified cars aren't quite as appealing to collectors. 

Photos: Honda

>>Join the conversation about the S2000 buyer guide right here at S2Ki.com.

Pricing

While higher-mile S2000s can still be found in the $10,000-$20,000 range, nice examples with fewer miles can cost far more than that, while the rare and special Club Racer commands six figures or more on a regular basis these days. That's a lot of coin for a car that wasn't terribly expensive new, but there are still some nice drivers out there for reasonable money, which is what we'd personally opt for.

Photos: Honda

>>Join the conversation about the S2000 buyer guide right here at S2Ki.com.