Much lauded by enthusiasts for the purity of its driving experience and back-to-basics approach, Honda’s S2000 ushered in the 21st century largely free from the the sort of electronic gizmos that were starting to make appearances in modern automobiles, never mind sportscars. CAR’s first encounter with the S2000 was in September 2000, which was enjoyable for the most part but had an unforgiving nature when there wasn’t enough driver talent.
The facelifted version was tested for the August 2004 issue and apart from the minor visual enhancements, came with modifications to the suspension and 17-inch wheels instead of the previous-generations’s 16-inchers to make it easier to drive on the limit. Responsible for some of the greatest engines ever (in race or road-going form), Honda left the normally aspirated 2,0-litre VTEC F20C engine unchanged in the S2000, although a 2,2-litre version was introduced abroad. The combination of high-revving powerplant, all-round double wishbone suspension and slick six-speed gearbox continued to contribute to one of the greatest sportscar experiences until Honda stopped production in 2009.