The S2000's body is mostly made of steel, though it still manages to keep weight down to a reasonable 1,271kg. An aluminium bonnet helps here, even if it is the only alloy panel used. A fabric roof in place of a folding metal roof also helps compared to the second generation BMW Z4 and Mercedes SLK in all guises. Be careful when the bonnet is open not to use the windscreen wipers as they will come into contact with each other and scratch the bonnet's paint.
Check carefully for accident damage...
There isn't much to worry about with the rest of the bodywork other than the usual parking dings and dents. However, corrosion can rear its head underneath the
S2000
, so you need to get on your hands and knees to check the underside. Honda's rust protection from the factory was minimal when the S2000 was new, so cars used all year round can corrode without you realising. Look for signs of previous owners applying rust prevention on a regular basis and continue this policy during your ownership.
You also need to inspect behind the rear wheelarch liners for rust as muck and water collects here and corrosion will occur without you seeing it. Repairs to this area are tricky and time consuming, making them expensive if rust has taken root.
The soft-top is electrically operated and the mechanism is reliable. However, the hood fabric can tear where it rubs against the frame above the driver's right shoulder. Some owners wrap the offending piece of frame in gaffer tape or make a small fabric sleeve to stop the rubbing. A new hood will be needed in cases where holes have become too large to patch or unsightly, which will set you back around £500 plus fitting.
Water traps in rear arches need checking
On the upside, a new hood is a chance for owners of earlier pre-2002 S2000s to upgrade to a glass rear window in place of the original plastic window. A glass rear window will make the car more secure, will not scratch or fade like the plastic one, and makes the cabin marginally more refined.
The catches of the soft-top can wear, which allows them to rattle and water to seep past the seal between the hood and windscreen rail. New catches can be fitted to cure this and cost about £50 from Honda plus fitting, though it's an easy DIY job to save the labour bill.
The GT model came with hard top that fits on the car when the hood is folded away and a stand on which to store it. If you buy a GT model, make sure the roof and stand are included in the sale, though GT models are not considered worth any more than a solely soft-top S2000.
Honda added new style front and rear lights with the 2004 facelift, which some owners prefer the style of, so this is down to personal taste.
PHer's view:
The S2000 must have one of the fastest folding roofs out there. There is also a trick where you can snip a cable under where the glovebox should be to allow the roof to be engaged on the move.
Matt Leung
