The Famous S2000 CR is Back Up For Auction 2 Years After $200K Sale

Stored Treasure or Forgotten Joy?

The Honda S2000, particularly the ultra-rare Club Racer (CR) edition, has long been celebrated as an enthusiast’s car—born for winding roads and tight corners. But this specific 2009 model, a Rio Yellow Club Racer, has been more of a garage queen than a track star. Previously sold for an eye-popping $200,000 in 2022, this once-thrilling roadster has barely moved, accumulating just seven miles since its last auction. This begs the question: is the joy of owning such a car really in driving it, or just in the prestige of possession?

A Roadster That Deserves the Road

Honda’s S2000 CR is an embodiment of driver-centric engineering, packing a 2.2-liter naturally aspirated engine and delivering 237 horsepower. The lightweight, nimble roadster was designed for one thing—driving pleasure. Yet, despite its incredible potential, this particular car has been resigned to a life of stasis, having barely been driven since it rolled out of the factory.

Why So Little Miles?

The most striking feature of this auctioned S2000 CR isn’t its horsepower or its aerodynamic design, but the fact that it has only been driven a total of 130 miles. The current owner’s reluctance to add significant mileage likely stems from viewing the car more as an investment than a source of driving pleasure. With a purchase price of $200,000—far surpassing the original MSRP of $38,465—it's clear that for some, the S2000 CR’s value lies in its rarity and near-pristine condition rather than its potential for spirited driving.

A Symbol of the Collector’s Dilemma

While it’s easy to understand why someone might want to protect such a valuable vehicle, there’s something inherently ironic about preserving a car that was designed to offer one of the most engaging driving experiences on the market. As automotive reviewer Chris Rosales poignantly observed, “Sports cars need emotion.” How much emotion can one derive from a car that spends its days standing still? This paradox highlights the dilemma that often plagues high-value collectibles—especially cars: does keeping it in mint condition outweigh the visceral joy of driving?

Investment or Enthusiasm?

The CR’s unique status and features—like the stiffened suspension, wider rear tires, and specialized aero kit—make it the most coveted S2000 model. The owner’s preservation mindset is likely rooted in a desire to ensure a return on this substantial investment. But with classic car prices fluctuating and a growing debate over the real value of such a dormant vehicle, it remains to be seen whether this car will sell for another six-figure sum. As the auction continues, the question looms: is this car truly a collectible masterpiece, or is it an investment waiting for the right buyer to flip it once again?

A Call to Future Owners

Shigeru Uehara, the Honda engineer behind the S2000, once said, “Please take good care of your S2000, keep it by your side for long, and enjoy it from the bottom of your heart.” For Uehara and many others, “enjoyment” meant putting the car on the road where it belongs. While private collectors may see the value in keeping such cars untouched, there is a growing sentiment that these vehicles should be shared with the world—or at the very least, driven as they were intended.

>>Join the conversation about this S2000 CR right here at S2Ki.com.

The Fateful Auction

As we follow along with the Bring A Trailer auction's progress, the top bid currently sits just above $100K, which is half of the price the seller paid for it a little over two years ago. The no-reserve auction will close in two days, and us S2000 enthusiasts anxiously await the fate of one of the most famous examples of the iconic Honda roadster that has ever existed.