Well-Traveled Club Racer Sums up S2000's Greatness Perfectly

Story Worth Telling

Those of us that're neck deep in the world of the S2000 already understand just how special the car is. But there are those out there that, well, don't. So when we came across this fascinating article over at Road & Track documenting Alex Soo's Club Racer, we found it to be a great representation of what makes the S2000 (and its owners) so unique. 

Photos: Road & Track

Constant Use

Soo actually owns two S2000s, but it's his rare Club Racer that sees the most action. Despite the car's obvious collector value, Soo routinely takes it to the track, participates in local club events, and takes on the twisties on long road trips. This is no garage queen, not by a long shot.

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.

Built to Drive

As such, this car is far from perfect. And sure, we see and feature our fair share of pristine, low-mile cars here. But the simple fact is, most S2000 owners drive the heck out of their cars. Because that's what they were designed to do. Rack up seemingly endless miles, putting a smile on your face the whole way.

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.

Special Machine

R&T sums it up succinctly. "The S2000 wasn't for everybody. It's still not for everybody. You have to be something of a dyed-in-the-wool Honda enthusiast like Soo and his fellow club members. Or at least you have to be able to appreciate what a special machine the S2000 was, arriving when it did."

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.

Passing the Torch

After all, when the S2000 came along, the era of Japanese performance had taken a major step back. "The Toyota Supra, the Mazda RX-7, and the 3000GT had all exited the market, R&T notes. "But here was Honda, flying in the face of reason with a car that boasted insane rev limits and a naturally-aspirated output that perhaps only Ferrari could match. The S2000 picked up the torch dropped by the titans of the bubble economy, and carried it forward."

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.

Learning Curve

R&T does point out the S2000's known flaws, including its "twitchy handling, sensitivity to mid-corner bumps, lack of torque," and the fact that "it was highly sensitive to inputs and a bit demanding." But these are also reasons why enthusiasts love the car so much. It's not something that novice drivers can just hop in and rip off killer lap times in. No, this car requires patience, respect, and a willingness to learn. 

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.

Be Thankful

Unfortunately, those are also reasons why we'll likely never see anything like the S2000 ever again. "But rejoice that it did and that it can still take its place proudly alongside some of the most rewarding sports cars produced by Japan. Owners understand this," R&T concludes. And that's also what makes the S2000 so special - it's a decided niche vehicle, for a decided niche audience.

Photos: Road & Track

>>Join the conversation on this traveling Club Racer right here in the S2Ki forums.