Test-Driving The 2003 Honda S2000
Base price: $32,600 Three and ½ stars
The S2000 leads my 'best of' list when compared to its main rivals in the pint-sized convertible market, the trunk-less Toyota MR2 Spyder and the teensy-weensy Mazda Miata.
True, the S2000 is more expensive than any of the aforementioned wheels and it doesn't provide a truly thrilling driving experience response-wise. But it's simply a gorgeous car with a sharply carved nose, cats eye headlights, twin exhaust pipes, compact wheelwells and uniform body/door handles/bumper color.
If all anyone asks of a convertible is that it be reliable and look great when whisking them, top-down, into the warm breezes of spring and summer with reasonable haste, the S2000 more than fits the bill.
Inside
It's a tight cockpit unsuitable for big or tall folks. Every button and dial is close up and personal. The push button starter provides some race-car flavor. The steering wheel feels substantial and trustworthy. There is no backseat, and the trunk isn't large, so pack light on overnight trips. A center console holds lots of CDs. Plastic mesh behind the head rests are a sporty touch, and the convertible top opens and closes in seconds, a plus when making frequent quick stops where you won't be gone long. The doors are heavy which lends a feeling of security on the highway. I felt as though I was piloting a small plane.
The 2.0 litre, DOHC four-cylinder engine makes a good growl, especially in first gear, but quick speed isn't its strong suit. You have to give it a lot of gas to get it to really move. The engine provides 240 horsepower at 8,300 RPM, which is a very high rev I'd be scared to venture into repeatedly for fear of wearing out engine parts.
The handling is above average due to a taut chassis with a 50/50 front to rear weight distribution; this helped me whip around corners as needed with no skidding or bouncing. 4-wheel disc brakes were adequate. The S2000 gets 20 miles per city gallon, 26 on freeways. Best of all, the car takes bumps and potholes with a minimum of jostling to riders.
There are a few demerits. The shift, now as in 2001, hates reverse. I usually had to wrestle to get it in gear. The driver's left thigh blocks the AM/FM/CD sound system's left speaker. Otherwise, the S2000 is a sound choice.
Repair record
The 2003 Honda S2000 is a Honda, of course, and Honda has one of the best repair records of any vehicles on the road. If you're looking to buy a 2003 S2000, though, common concerns include excessive oil consumption, clutch master cylinder failure, suspension bushing wear, soft top deterioration, and. in some cases, valve retainer cracking.
While the severity and repair costs can vary widely, this is also a car people tend to drive hard, so you can expect some reasonable wear and tear. If you're looking to buy, keep an eye on BringATrailer.com who have sold plenty over the last five years.
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