Author and historian Brian Long has created the definitive history of the Honda S2000, 'sister' car to the legendary Acura NSX. With a 9000rpm redline, bullet-quick gear changes, space-age digital dash, and Honda’s legendary built quality – not to mention appearances in games such as Grand Theft Auto – the S2000 was a hot ticket, and a car that’s just as sought-after today as during its 10 year production run.
Researched and written in Japan, with the full co-operation of the Honda factory, here is the story of the Honda S2000 in definitive detail. An open two-seater built on the success of the NSX, the S2000 helped the company justify its racing exploits with a 'proper' line of sporting machinery.
In 1995, Honda displayed its SSM – Sports Study Model – prototype at the 1995 Tokyo Show. The show debuted a number of important prototypes, including Mazda’s RX-01, Toyota’s MRJ and Prius prototypes , and Pininfarina’s Argento Vivo concept – but it was the SSM’s tasteful blend of tradition, modernity, and futuristic styling that immediately drew the attention of enthusiasts.
In 1998, on the Honda’s 50th anniversary, the S2000 prototype was unveiled at its chic Aoyama offices, Tokyo. In production, the S2000 defended Honda's honour on the race track admirably, but it was in the showrooms that the S2000 truly excelled. Undergoing a series of significant design changes during its life, both cosmetic and mechanical, the model was eventually retired in 2009. Today, in the era of forced induction, this screaming naturally-aspirated two-seater is as popular as ever; a genuine modern classic.
Telling the S2000’s full history, from the SSM prototype displayed at the 1995 Tokyo Show, to the end of S2000 production over a decade later, this book describes the car’s history in all major markets, complemented with stunning contemporary photography, gathered from all over the world.
Reproductions of original sales brochures and press materials. technical specifications, reference charts, and detailed production figures, including exports, makes this a unique record. It’s both a fantastic tool for assessing authenticity, and a visual feast dedicated to this still stylish, still desirable Japanese sports car.
The definitive history of the Honda S2000
Written and research in Japan, with the full co-operation of the Honda Factory
Sales in all major the markets are covered in detail
Detailed production figures, including exports
Handy reference charts throughout
Takes a look at the S2000’s motor racing exploits
Lavishly illustrated with contemporary photos and period literature
An excellent guide to authenticity for all owners and enthusiasts
Covering the period 1999-2009, and beginning with a brief history of Honda, The Book of the Honda S2000 includes all S2000 variants, including; AP1, AP1 Facelift, AP2, Japanese (JDM), Type V, S2000 CR 'Club Racer', S2000 RJ, S2000 GT, Ultimate Edition / GT Edition 100, S2000 'Gioire', Type R, and Type S.
