2009 Honda S2000

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The 2009 Honda S2000 is a compact, 2-seat roadster sports car. The 2.2L 4-cylinder VTEC engine paired with a 6-speed short throw manual transmission gives the S2000 astonishing power at the top of its tachometer producing 237-horsepower at 7800 rpms. With rear-wheel drive, the S2000 has an ideal 50/50 weight distribution, along with front and rear double-wishbone suspension, electric power steering and a torque-sensing, limited-slip rear differential for superb handling on curvy, challenging roads. With a curb weight below 3,000 pounds, the S2000 squeezes surprisingly fast acceleration from its VTEC 4-cylinder engine; it's been tested as accelerating to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

The S2000 comes in two trim levels-the standard edition and the racetrack-inspired CR. The standard S2000 includes a power-operated soft top that beats others for speed to open and close. Also standard is Honda's VSA electronic stability and anti-lock brakes with brake assist. For amenities the S2000 comes well equipped with features such as air conditioning, full power accessories, keyless entry, cruise control and leather upholstery but dazzles with frills like push button ignition, aluminum textured pedals and a dash that feels more like a cockpit than a car.

The CR model incorporates a number of weight-saving measures and expanded high-performance equipment, starting with aggressive suspension settings, a more rigid body and aerodynamic front and rear spoilers that reduce high-speed lift. It also gets a quicker steering ratio, more aggressive tires with a larger rear size, a sport-tuned muffler and larger stabilizer bars. The CR edition has a removable aluminum hard top instead of the convertible soft top. And, for the sake of weight control the CR ditches air conditioning and sound system. The overall weight savings for the model is 51 pounds with the hard top in place.

All trim levels receive rave reviews for safety standards. Dual front air-bags, anti-lock brakes and vehicle stability and traction control are a few of the standard safety features of the 2009 S2000.
The S2000 remains largely unchanged for 2009. Base prices rose about $700 over 2008.
Dynamic acceleration; race track handling; ideal top-down roadster experience; convenient soft-top arrangement.
The Honda S2000 is a hard-core racer for those looking for a hard-edged super-handling car that is right at home on the track. Its quick yet quiet 16-valve 2.2L DOHC 4-cylinder VTEC engine offers surprising acceleration and a more visceral experience than its heavier, more luxurious competitors.