2002 Honda S2000 2-Door Roadster
Legal Fun

Susan Frissell

Into its third model year, Honda’s S2000 Roadster remains one of the most fun cars of its kind on the road. I admit, when the S2000 first arrived, it took some getting used to, with its quirky starter arrangement. I couldn’t quite understand why certain colleagues raved about this little bugger. But now I think I’m beginning to understand. As one of them continually reminds me, "It’s fast, it’s fun and it’s affordable."

So be it. I did enjoy my second round in the 2002 Honda S2000. My test car, in all its Suzuka Blue with blue interior, splendor arrived the week before our local media group’s yearly Rally. The days were beginning to get cool so I wasn’t sure the convertible would be put to use. Not to worry. As Fall can be, there were warm days just right for topless motoring. With a little help, I removed the hardtop and cruised up to Michigan for the start of the Rally.

With sales running 50 percent ahead of 2000, the S2000 roadster has listened to the public and added some "wish list" features, including a glass rear window with defroster, improved transmission for smoother, quieter shifts, new clutch, upgraded stereo system (door-mounted tweeters, anti-theft feature, silver face plate, 30 watts), refined tail lights with chrome rings, and several interior upgrades. Net storage pockets have been added to door panels, and the shift knob comes in either aluminum or leather. Trim accents jazz up the interior space giving one the feeling of luxury.

The engine in the S2000 is Honda’s 240-horsepower, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder , 16-valve. Normally-aspirated, the engine meets California’s low-emission requirements and can go from 0-6- mph in six seconds. Not bad for a street legal vehicle.

Our test vehicle carried an MSRP of $32,400, with destination $440. There were no additional options and it came with a free tank of gas. The S2000 is available in one model and comes with a lot of standard equipment. Wheels and tires are 205/55R16 89W in front and 205/50R16 92W in the rear. The Bridgestone Potenza tires add to the ride comfort of the S2000, making it seem as though you’re not so close to the ground. A common complaint in this type of vehicle.

The S2000’s headlights are Xenon High Intensity, throwing out lots of light on the dark highways at night. Honda has included the standard safety equipment, including 3-point seat belts, dual driver’s/passenger front airbags, remote keyless entry system, and immobilizer anti-theft system.

The convertible is a soft top (hard top optional), electric powered, with a glass rear window/defroster.

The interior of the S2000 is small, and for some, a tad cramped. However, the seating is comfortable and controls easily reached. Honda has managed to create a handsome looking digital instrument panel. We especially like the aluminum pedals, foot rest and shifter knob giving the S2000 a retro look.

The S2000 is available in two new colors for 2000: Suzuka Blue and Sebring Silver (replacing Silverstone). Our personal favorite is the Spa Yellow. It’s hard to miss.

Copyright 2002. Susan Frissell. Women With Wheels. All Rights Reserved.