S2000: racetrack readiness for everyday users

  • By Larry Lark Automotive Reviewer
  • Friday, October 12, 2007 9:43am

The 2007 Honda S2000 Laguna Blue Pearl cloth-top convertible was delivered to the Lark driveway, and seven days of sun and blue skies went by way too fast.

Widely considered the quintessential roadster, the S2000 is the performance model for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready power with everyday user friendliness.

Introduced in 1999, the car rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC four-cylinder engine combined with a precision, short throw six-speed manual transmission, tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

Rumor has it that the S2000 will race the Porsche Boxster to a dead heat in a 0- to 40-mph dash.

Continuing with significant improvements made to the 2006 model, the 2007 S2000 includes an electronic drive-by-wire throttle system, vehicle stability assist, standard headrest speakers, outside temperature gauge and an engine start button.

The S2000’s renowned high-revving powerplant generates 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm.

Complementing the engine’s output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio six speed manual transmission with a direct linkage for precise shifting and short, quick throws.

With the push of a button the convertible top drops, and the engine decibel level increases along with Larry the Lobster’s sunburn meter.

The rear-wheel-drive chassis with 50/50 front and rear weight distribution delivers a no-compromise performance package designed to appeal to the driving enthusiast. Make no bones about it, the S2000 delivers the goods when it comes to acceleration, responsiveness and cornering agility.

A front and rear double wishbone suspension does little to dampen each and every bump in the road, but the S2000’s precise electric power steering, torque-sensing limited rear differential and exceptional structural rigidity creates a ride that arouses the senses whether on the I-5 treadmill or scenic Chuckanut Drive.

Drive-by-wire technology eliminates the need for a mechanical connection between the throttle pedal and engine. This enables continuous electronic monitoring and adjustment of throttle pedal sensitivity to create an ideal match between throttle response and driving conditions. The system also manages the S2000’s cruise control function for greater precision.

Vehicle stability assist works in conjunction with drive-by-wire to make the S2000 even more stable and forgiving during bouts of inclement weather – not that that ever occurs around here. The non-geek translation is that VSA’s computer monitors the car’s speed and course and can independently override driver error utilizing the S2000’s four-channel anti-lock braking system and throttle.

In addition to the power retractable convertible top, standard features include 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, leather trimmed bucket seats, high-intensity discharge headlamps, air conditioning, in-dash CD player, keyless entry, and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

XM satellite radio was provided as a dealer-installed option, which meant I could listen to PGA Tour radio broadcasts even though the S2000’s trunk was not capable of accommodating my golf clubs and bag on a short trip to the driving range.

In case you’re worried, I did manage to wedge my all-important instruments into the passenger seating area of the S2000, so all was well in Larry Land.

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