Honda S2000: The Iconic Roadster Could Return, But Challenges Remain

The legendary Honda S2000 may make a comeback, yet cost, platform limitations, and market demand complicate its revival.

Honda engineers remain passionate about the S2000, the iconic two-seater roadster that has defined weekend thrills and precision driving. Chief Engineer Tomoyuki Yamagami recently confirmed that bringing back the S2000 is a heartfelt desire for the company, emphasizing that any revival must stay true to Honda’s DNA and heritage. However, a modern S2000 cannot appear until the brand resolves engineering, platform, and market challenges.

Platform and Collaboration Challenges

The S2000 was a purpose-built sports car, featuring a unique rear-wheel-drive layout and high-revving 2.0-liter F20C and 2.2-liter F22C1 engines. Unlike more flexible models such as the hybrid Prelude, there is currently no platform at Honda that suits an S2000 successor. Yamagami highlighted that Honda would not co-develop the car with another automaker, unlike Toyota’s collaborations on the GR86 or GR Supra. Preserving authenticity and performance standards is essential before any revival.

The High Cost of Building a Legend

One of the main obstacles is price. A low-volume, purpose-built sports car inevitably drives costs upward. When the original S2000 launched in 1999, its price adjusted for today would exceed $60,000 in the US, illustrating the difficulty of offering such a vehicle to younger audiences. Modern models like the Prelude benefit from shared platforms and components, keeping costs lower—luxuries the bespoke S2000 design cannot afford.

The Market Reality

While enthusiasts dream of a new S2000, Honda must justify the financial equation. Producing a niche sports car with no parts-sharing opportunities would make it very expensive, and current market conditions make it unlikely. As Yamagami explained, the vehicle must meet or exceed the high bar set by the original S2000, or it will not be considered for production.

A Hopeful Future for Honda Fans

Despite the challenges, passion for the S2000 remains strong within Honda. The company is committed to keeping the spirit of the S2000 alive, and while a new model isn’t imminent, fans can be assured that any future revival will honor the roadster’s performance, driving purity, and heritage. Until then, the S2000 continues to symbolize Honda’s engineering excellence and its enduring appeal to enthusiasts worldwide.