Boy racer performance package
With a rear-wheel drive layout, a limited slip rear differential, 50/50 weight distribution and 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension, it's no wonder that the Honda handles so well on the track. The S2000 is as pure a sportscar as can be found on the road today; its handling is completely predictable, the tail end stepping out exactly when you'd expect it to and not a moment sooner. (If you'd prefer, the car's vehicle stability control system can be left on... but where's the fun in that?)

The S2000 is a rear-wheel drive vehicle.

Through the added benefit of beefy 215/45/R17 speed-rated tires up front and similarly formulated 245/40/R17 rubber at the back, the level of grip is substantial. Power slides can easily be generated (see above), but that's only due to the car's tremendous power-to-weight ratio and is no reflection on the performance of the Bridgestone Potenza tires.

The steering is, similarly, top notch; incredibly direct and confidence-inspiring for drivers of all abilities. In the Honda S2000, the act of cornering has been elevated to high art.

Not to be outdone, the car's braking performance is impressive as well. The 4-channel anti-lock braking system incorporated 300-mm vented discs up front, 282-mm solid discs out back, electronic brake distribution and brake assist. The benefit of all this technology is a sportscar capable of certain, fade-free braking for corner after corner.

Time for a change?
While the Honda S2000 has changed since its debut, it still looks very similar to the original. In 2004, the little dynamo received new front and rear bumpers, revised headlight assemblies, HID headlights, LED taillights, and oval-tipped exhausts. Since then, the only revision has been to the sport seats, which now incorporate speakers into the headrests.

The interior itself was and is plain: There is black leather everywhere, from the trim to the steering wheel to the shift lever. There is still little in the way of passenger or storage space. The steering wheel still does not tilt or telescope. The instrument panel retains the original look modeled after Honda's old CART racecars with a bar graph tachometer and digital speedometer dominating the proceedings.

The interior would benefit from a makeover.