The Honda S2000 is a high-performance, 2-seat, open-topped roadster with an advanced front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car configuration. Introduced in 2000 as a commemoration of Honda’s 50th anniversary, the S2000 incorporates many of the lessons learned in the company’s five decades of building and racing cars and motorcycles. Its original concept was to be a true sports car that could serve as both a practical and fun daily driver and a highly capable weekend track racer.

For its 2004 redesign, Honda engineers built on those ideals and elevated the S2000 to a higher class by strengthening the all-around performance, enhancing the interior and giving the exterior a subtly bolder appearance. The net gain is an S2000 that is simultaneously an improved track car and an improved daily driver.

The 2004 S2000 benefits from the following major enhancements:

• Larger displacement 2.2-liter engine (240 horsepower @ 7800 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 6500 (replaces 240 hp @ 8300 rpm and 153 ft.-lbs. @ 7500 rpm )
• Larger wheels and tires (17-inch)
• Revised suspension tuning
• Revised transmission gear ratios and improved shift feeling
• Bolder front and rear exterior styling
• Freshened interior design
• New options including XM Satellite Radio™ and headrest speakers

On the track, the 2004 S2000 accelerates with increased authority and more pull through corners with a broadened powerband that comes on sooner and stronger. The new suspension tuning enhances vehicle control qualities at the limit, while minimizing bump steer effects from road disturbances. Larger 17-inch wheels and tires provide more grip and maximize the suspension tuning.

From 1000 rpm to 8000 rpm, available torque and horsepower increase between 6- and 10-percent. Additionally, useful power for high performance acceleration begins at about 3000 rpm compared to about 6000 rpm on the 2000 – 2003 models. This performance improvement at the lower rpm ranges can be attributed to the displacement increase, revised valvetrain tuning and the lower gear ratios on gears one through four that help magnify the engine performance gains.

On the street, the 2004 S2000 transmits less ride harshness, while the enhanced powerband reduces the need to shift as often in certain circumstances. Interior comfort also improves with more elbow and shoulder room, and the center console now has two cupholders, a storage tray and more utility.

The sum of the entire series of changes produces significant results on a platform that sets an industry standard for precision and performance. In short, the 2004 S2000 sports a new muscular feel, refined handling and enhanced interior comfort with better convenience features while maintaining its focus as a true high performance sports car.

2004 S2000 Improvements

Performance and Handling

• Dynamic acceleration potential increased
• Transmission shifter direct feel increased
• High-speed stability enhanced
• At-the-limit performance increased with more gradual fall-off
• Sensitivity to disturbances decreased (less bump steer)
• Steering feedback enhanced
• Brake pedal dynamic feel enhanced

Comfort and Convenience

• Interior space increased
• Interior storage functionality increased
• Optional audio features added

	2004	2003	Change/Notes
Powertrain
Engine	2.2-liter DOHC VTEC	2.0-liter DOHC VTEC	+ 0.2 liters, attributable to engine stroke change
Horsepower	240 @ 7800 rpm	240 @ 8300 rpm	+ 0 hp @ -500 rpm, same peak horsepower with overall powerband characteristics strengthened 4% to 10% between 1000 -8000 rpm
Torque (lbs.-ft.)	162 @ 6500 rpm	153 @ 7500 rpm	+9 lb.-ft. @ -1000 rpm with improved powerband characteristics strengthened between 4% and 10% between 1000-8000 rpm. Max torque increases 5%.
Rev Limit (fuel cutoff)	8200	9000	Piston travel configuration decreases rpm limit by 9% because of piston speed increase.
Compression Ratio	11.1:1	11.0:1	+0.1:1
Transmission Ratios	Reconfigured	–	Gears 1-4 = 4% lower for performance Gear 5 = 1% lower Gear 6 = 2% higher
Suspension
Wheels (inches)	Front: 17×7 Rear: 17×8.5	Front: 16×6.5 Rear: 16×7.5	Front: + 1×0.5 (new wheel design) Rear: + 1×1 (new wheel design)
Tires	Front: P215/45R17 Rear: P245/40R17	Front: P205/55R16 Rear: P225/50R16	Larger contact patch
Springs	New Tuning	–	Front: Increased spring rate 6.7% Rear: Decreased spring rate 10%
Shock Absorbers	New Tuning	–	Tuned for new suspension settings
Stabilizer Bars (mm)	Front: 26.5x t4.5 Rear: 25.4 x t4.5	Front: 26.5x t4.5 Rear: 27.2 x t4.5	Front: Same Rear: -1.8 x 0
Ride Height	Non-Load: 5.1 Full-Load: 4.2	Non-Load: 5.1 Full-Load: 4.2	No Change
Body
Aerodynamics	Enhanced	–	5% improvement in Cd from new front bumper design
Body Rigidity	Enhanced	–	Rigidity increased
Front Bumper	Redesigned	–	New bumper and new triple-beam headlight designs
Rear Bumper	Redesigned	–	New bumper, triple beam LED taillights and oval exhaust tips designs
Weight (lbs.)	2835	2811	+24, attributable to body rigidity increase and new wheels and tires
Exterior Dimensions L x W x H (inches)	162.2 x 68.9 x 50.0	162.2 x 68.9 x 50.0	0 x 0 x 0
Interior
Shoulder Room (in.)	50.7	48.4	+0.9 (20mm)
Interior Console	Redesigned	–	New console with two cupholders (+1) and storage compartment, new trim pieces
Interior Doors	Redesigned	–	Increased elbow and shoulder room, new speaker enclosures
Steering Wheel	Minor update	–	New Honda emblem
Radio	New design	–	XM Satellite Radio available and optional headrest speakers added

The 2004 S2000 engine has been re-designed and displacement increased by 0.2 liters through lengthening the stroke of piston travel. The 2.2-liter, DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine produces 240 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque while meeting California’s Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Honda’s innovative VTEC advanced variable valve-timing system, operates the S2000 engine’s 16 valves (4 per cylinder) in both intake and exhaust modes. This system is compact and tailored to the high-output, high-rpm operating characteristics of the S2000 engine.

A revised 6-speed, manual transmission provides lower gear ratios on gears one through five, and a higher sixth speed gear for highway cruising The transmission is a compact design and features a direct shift linkage with class-leading feel and short throws. A Torsen limited-slip differential smoothly delivers power to the rear wheels, regardless of traction conditions. The S2000 engine and transmission are capable of accelerating the S2000 from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds.

Honda’s racing experience is also evident in the S2000’s responsive handling. The chassis has an ideal 50/50 weight distribution, and the body and frame are a hybrid monocoque-frame structure that forms a rigid, flex-free platform for the S2000’s in-wheel double wishbone suspension system, and plays an important role in helping the S2000 achieve its high level of safety protection. The power steering system is a highly responsive, electrically assisted type.

Larger front 215/45 87W and rear 245/40 91W tires are mounted on newly-designed 17-inch alloy wheels, and 11-inch brake discs (vented in front) provide excellent stopping power and brake feel. For 2004, new brake pad material improves the pedal feel and resists fading in high performance driving. An anti-lock braking system is standard.

The exterior styling of the S2000’s body is angular, modern and purposeful, with the 2004 model receiving bolder front end and rear end styling. Its long hood and flared front fenders create the impression of lowness and mass. The nose has slightly improved aerodynamics for 2004 that involves re-shaping the front bumper. High sides reinforce the cockpit-like feel of the interior.

The interior is modern and designed with the driver’s needs in mind. The seats contour to provide excellent lateral support during aggressive turns and help minimize fatigue. Outward visibility is unobstructed.

For 2004, controls such as the steering, brakes and clutch, operate with a new level of precision and have an even more direct feel. The aluminum leather-wrapped shift knob and lever, F1-inspired digital instrument display and separate engine-start button serve as a reminder of the racing heritage of the S2000.

2004 Honda S2000 Roadster Technical Highlights

Advanced technologies used in the S2000:

• Hybrid monocoque body and “high X-bone frame” has torsional and bending rigidity of closed-top vehicle, without excess weight
• Highly compact, 2.2-liter, DOHC VTEC engine produces 240 hp and 162 lb.-ft. of torque
• Compact DOHC three-rocker VTEC variable valve-timing system adjusts intake and exhaust valve duration
• Coaxial, roller-bearing cam followers
• Lightweight, powdered-metal, injection-molded, sintered steel-alloy cam followers
• Electric Power Steering system (EPS)
• F1-inspired digital instrument panel
• High-efficiency, low-back pressure, metallic-honeycomb catalyst
• In-wheel, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension system
• Impact-absorbing body and frame designed to help protect the driver and passenger in full-frontal, offset-frontal, side and rear impacts
• 6-speed, transmission
• Forged-alloy pistons and “dummy head” honed cylinder block
• Heat-treated, carburized forged-steel crankshaft and connecting rods
• Nut-less connecting rods
• High-intensity discharge (HID) projector headlights
• Torque-sensing limited-slip differential
• Long-wearing FRM (Fiber-Reinforced Metal) cylinder liners
• Compact “in-wheel” double wishbone suspension system
• Engine meets Low-Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards

2004 Honda S2000 Gallery

S2000 Power and Convenience Features

The S2000 has an impressive list of standard comfort and convenience features, designed to make driving more pleasant and enjoyable, including high-intensity discharge (HID) projector headlights, a power-operated convertible top that opens or closes in approximately six seconds, air conditioning, micron air filtration, cruise control, an AM/FM stereo with CD player, remote-operated audio controls, power door locks, power windows, power heated side mirrors, Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System and keyless entry for both doors and the trunk. For 2004, XM Satellite Radio and headrest speakers are available as optional.

Safety Features

The S2000 is designed to comply with various worldwide safety standards and boasts an extensive list of safety features, including 3-point seat belts with load limiter and pretensioner, a compact SRS system for the driver and passenger, roll bars and reinforced windshield posts, and a body and frame especially designed to help absorb the energy of full-frontal, offset-frontal and rear impacts. Even the hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots are designed to collapse in order to minimize head injury to pedestrians. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard.

High-Output 2.2-Liter Engine

In order to give the S2000 an ideal 50/50 weight distribution and a low yaw moment, Honda engineers designed the S2000’s 2.2-liter, 240-hp, 16-valve, 4-cylinder engine to be as small and as lightweight as possible. The engine’s aluminum-alloy cylinder head is a highly efficient design and features a compact gear- and chain-drive system for the dual overhead camshafts. The ancillary drive system for the alternator, water pump and air-conditioning compressor is also a new space-efficient type.

The S2000 engine’s highly rigid, aluminum-alloy cylinder block features Honda’s long-wearing FRM (Fiber-Reinforced Metal) cylinder liners. The lightweight pistons are made of forged aluminum alloy and the forged-steel connecting rods and crankshaft are heat-treated for added toughness. Numerous friction-reduction techniques, such as, roller-bearing cam followers, special pistons and advanced bearing materials, are used in the engine.

A compact version of VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Engine Control), Honda’s variable valve timing system, is used on the S2000 engine. The VTEC system optimizes torque output over the engine’s entire operating range, improving both driveability and performance. The S2000’s VTEC uses compact, high-strength, low-friction, roller-bearing cam followers.

A large-capacity, low-restriction intake system and low back-pressure exhaust system help ensure free breathing at all engine speeds. The exhaust system uses a high-efficiency metal-honeycomb catalyst. The new catalyst, combined with the engine’s electric pump-fed, secondary air-injection system, a direct-ignition system and Honda-programmed multi-point fuel injection, contributes to the S2000’s engine achieving its LEV status.

Six-Speed Manual Transmission

The S2000 uses a longitudinally mounted, 6-speed manual transmission, which is built for high performance. Its gearing ensures strong performance in every gear, and the shift linkage is very direct, with short, precise throws. For 2004, single carbon synchronizers on all forward gears replace double- and triple-cone brass synchronizers in order to provide a more direct shift feel and reduce mechanical loss in the transmission. Other features of the S2000 drivetrain include a compact pull-type clutch with a clutch delay system, a highly rigid, one-piece propeller shaft and rigid axle shafts-all designed to reduce drivetrain flex to an absolute minimum. The Torsen limited-slip differential is a highly efficient torque-sensing, clutchless type that smoothly transfers torque to the wheel with the most traction, whether cornering or accelerating in a straight line.

In-Wheel Double Wishbone Suspension

The S2000’s 4-wheel double wishbone suspension system is a compact in-wheel design, similar to the type used on racing cars. At each wheel, rigid upper and lower A-shaped wishbone links carry suspension loads directly to rigid subframes, attached directly to the newly reinforced monocoque body.

For 2004, the suspension geometry has been carefully tuned for optimum road-holding and steering feel. Coil springs and mono-tube, gas-pressurized shock absorbers (remote reservoirs in the rear) are used at each wheel. Front and rear stabilizers (1.04 x 0.18-inch front/1.00×0.18-inch rear) help keep body roll to a minimum.

High X-Bone Frame

Body rigidity is crucial to good handling in an open-topped roadster, so Honda engineers designed a highly rigid monocoque body for the S2000 and strengthened it even more for 2004. The heart of the system is a large central tunnel that runs down the center of the cockpit. This tunnel serves as the backbone and main load-bearing structure for the vehicle, as well as a housing for the transmission and driveshaft.

The body’s high side sills, and innovative diagonal (X) bracing at the front and rear of the cockpit, provide additional rigidity. Suspension and drive loads from the wheels are fed directly into this structure via highly rigid subframes at the front and rear of the vehicle.

Electrically Powered Steering System

In place of a conventional hydraulic system, with its hoses, fluid and power drain, the S2000 uses an electrically assisted power steering system. At low speeds, more power-steering assist is provided, which eases maneuvering and parking. As vehicle speed increases, less power assist is supplied, giving the steering a more direct feel.

The S2000 Concept and Development

When Honda designers and engineers began work on the S2000, they set several overall design goals for it that would ultimately define its nature. They wanted it to have race-car-like performance and handling-something an enthusiast driver could use and enjoy, even in everyday driving situations. In addition, they wanted the S2000 to be a modern, socially responsible automobile, with low emissions and a full range of safety features.

The S2000’s roadster layout also captures the spirit of the legendary high-performance sports cars of the past, as well as Honda’s very first sports car, the S500 roadster. However, the S2000 makes no attempt to be a retro sports car. It is Honda’s own unique interpretation of a modern sports car-with high performance, state-of-the-art technology, comfort, style and Honda durability.

The S2000 and the Honda Spirit

The S2000 is also intended to be a celebration of several important aspects of the Honda Motor Company’s corporate identity and spirit. One aspect of that spirit can be found in the company’s history of building sporting automobiles.

From the first S500 to the current Civic Si and the Acura NSX supercar, Honda has always offered a dedicated performance car. Another aspect of the Honda spirit celebrated in the S2000 is the company’s motor sports heritage. Honda started racing motorcycles internationally in the 1950s, and entered Formula 1 car racing in the 1960s. Today, Honda still participates in the most competitive and prestigious levels of motor sports, including Formula 1, the Indy Racing League and Grand Prix motorcycle racing. The S2000 incorporates many of the engineering lessons learned in five decades of racing.

The S2000 also represents the Honda spirit of innovation. From the first CVCC engine to 4-wheel steering, VTEC variable valve timing, and up to the current SULEV, AT-PZEV and ZEV hydrogen fuel cell automobiles and engines, Honda products have always demonstrated the company’s uniquely creative approach to solving engineering challenges. The S2000 is no different. It is a showcase of Honda technologies and advanced engineering techniques applied in a cost-effective manner.

Honda S2000 Features

The following is a list of the standard features found on the S2000 roadster:

Engineering Features

• 240-hp, 2.2-liter, 16-valve, DOHC VTEC engine
• Multi-Point Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
• Direct ignition system
• Low-back pressure exhaust system with high-efficiency catalyst
• Low-Emission Vehicle-rated (LEV)
• 6-speed, manual transmission
• Torque-sensing limited-slip differential
• Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
• High-rigidity “high X-bone frame”
• In-wheel double wishbone suspension with gas-filled shock absorbers and front and rear stabilizer bars
• Electric Power Steering system (EPS)
• Variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering
• 17-inch alloy wheels (7.0-inch-wide front/8.5-inch-wide rear)
• 215/45 R17 87W front tires
• 245/40 R17 91W rear tires

Exterior Features

• Electrically powered soft top
• Aluminum hood
• High-intensity discharge (HID) projector headlights
• Body-colored dual power mirrors
• Dual-outlet exhaust with oval tips
• 5-mph, impact-absorbing body-colored bumpers

Interior Features

• Dual airbags (SRS)
• Air conditioning
• Micron air-filtration system
• AM/FM stereo with CD player and XM Satellite Radio capability
• Remote-operated audio controls
• Power windows
• Power door locks
• Cruise control
• Digital instrument panel
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Center console storage compartments with sliding lid
• Dual Beverage holder
• 3-point seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter
• Engine start button
• Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System
• Keyless entry system for doors and trunk

Exterior and Interior Colors

• Grand Prix White/Light Tan
• New Formula Red/Black
• Sebring Silver Metallic/ Black or Black and Red
• Silverstone Metallic/Black or Black and Red
• Berlina Black/Black
• Rio Yellow Pearl/Black
• Suzuka Blue Pearl/Blue

2004 Honda S2000 — Interior

As with the S2000’s exterior, the central design theme of the roadster’s interior is performance. Honda engineers designed the interior to contribute to what they call an “interfusion” between the driver and the car.

The conceptual model for the S2000 interior is a modern Formula 1 car’s cockpit. Outward visibility, simplicity of controls, control feel, comfort – both machines have these needs in common.

New for 2004

The 2004 S2000 benefits from a wide range of interior enhancements that make it a better all-around daily driver. Redesigned door panels provide more shoulder and elbow room, and a new center console provides greater utility and improved audio.

Honda S2000 Interior Features

• Driver-oriented control layout
• Excellent outward visibility
• Dual airbags (SRS)
• Air conditioning
• Micron air-filtration system
• AM/FM stereo CD player with optional XM Satellite Radio
• Power windows
• Power door locks
• Power mirrors
• Cruise control
• Digital instrument panel
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Center console storage compartments w/lock
• Center console cupholders (2) w/ one touch sliding lid
• 12-volt power outlet
• 3-point seat belts with pretensioner and load limiter
• Remote-operated audio controls
• Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System
• Engine start button
• Keyless entry system

2004 Interior Changes

The interior has the following changes for 2004:

• Door panels on both sides are sculpted more deeply
  • Elbow room increased by as much as 0.9 inches (20 mm)
  • The lower door pocket has more storage space,
  • The tweeter housing is reshaped and more integrated with the door shape
  • Vertical elbow pad is larger
• New interior trim and related pieces include:
  • Ignition wave key design features decorative aluminum-look panel with S2000 logo
  • An aluminum shift knob with genuine leather
  • A genuine leather shift boot
  • Revised aluminum-look radio lid
  • Aluminum-look console lid, head restraint cover
  • Cruise control buttons on steering wheel add Cancel center button
• Center console redesigned to provide:
  • Two cupholders (previously just one)
  • A one-touch sliding lid
  • A storage tray to place small objects such as coins
• Updated instrument panel meter design
  • Digital tachometer features less distance between segments
  • Integrated clock added
  • Security indicator lamp added
• New black and red interior color is available with Sebring Silver Metallic or Silverstone Metallic exterior colors

Driver-Oriented Interior

The S2000’s driver-oriented interior is stylistically restrained and functional.

The contoured seats are upholstered in leather, and have a perforated texture that helps the material breathe. Legroom is ample and the seatback’s side bolsters extend all the way up to the shoulder for good lateral support when cornering. The head restraints are fixed and feature an open design that contributes to the overall open feel of the cockpit.

Seat adjustment is manual and includes adjustments for fore and aft position and seatback angle. A padded and carpeted central console separates the seats. The sculpted door inserts are upholstered in leather and include an armrest, grab handle, door latch, power window and door-lock controls. The driver’s side door includes power-mirror controls.

The instrument panel curves around each side of the central instrument pod. Smaller pod wings house controls for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, audio, cruise control, the engine start button and the air outlets.

The foot pedals feature a textured-metal finish reminiscent of the pedals found in race cars, and are positioned for optimal heel-and-toe operation.

The padded 3-spoke steering wheel features the cruise control switches with set, resume and cancel buttons.

The 6-speed shifter, emergency flasher switch, hand brake lever and power-operated soft-top switch are housed in the central console, along with beverage holders and a pocket for small items, such as change. A compartment located on the rear bulkhead, between the driver’s and passenger’s shoulders, features a hinged, locking cover and functions as a glove compartment. Two lockable storage units are located behind the driver’s and passenger’s seats.

Audio System

The AM/FM stereo and CD player sits beneath the center of the instrument panel, at the forward end of the center console. A flip-down cover hides the radio controls from view and from the elements. The 30-watt, four speaker system features two front mid-range speakers in the lower door panel and two tweeters mounted on the upper door.

For 2004, dealer-installed headrest tweeters are available (two per seat) and the head unit is XM Satellite Radio-capable with the addition of a dealer-installed XM Satellite Radio Receiver and antenna. The optional satellite antenna has a sleek, low-profile design and is painted Satin Silver Mist. For a monthly fee, XM Satellite Radio features over 100 digitally broadcast channels and delivers CD-quality sound with text information such as artist, song title and album title.

Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System

An Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System is standard on the S2000. The ignition key has a built-in transponder, which, when removed, immobilizes the engine fuel injection and ignition so the engine cannot be started. When the key is inserted, a radio signal from the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is sent to the transponder.

If the code in the key and the code in the ECU agree, then the ECU allows the engine to be started. The key needs no batteries, as it receives what little energy it needs via the ignition/steering-lock unit that functions as a transmitter/receiver antenna. An indicator lamp on the instrument panel lets the driver know that the immobilizer system has accepted the key.

Race-Car-Type Digital Display

The S2000 features a digital instrument panel reminiscent of the displays used in modern racing cars. The display features a large, semicircular bar-type tachometer divided into 100-rpm increments. The tachometer flashes red when the engine redline is approached at 8000 rpm (the fuel cutoff is set at 8200 rpm). A highly visible digital speedometer readout is below the tachometer display, as well as readouts for coolant temperature, fuel level, trip and cumulative mileage odometers and warning lights for SRS, oil pressure, the Immobilizer Theft-Deterrent System and ABS. For 2004, the tachometer features reduced distance between each segment. Plus, a digital clock and a security system indicator lamp have been added.

Electronically Controlled Heating and Air-Conditioning System

The various functions of the heating and air-conditioning system are electronically controlled and actuated by the heater and airflow controls. The heater outlets at knee level and the center outlet in the instrument panel help extend comfort when the top is down in cool weather. The air-conditioning-system evaporator is a new design that takes up less space, is more efficient at transferring heat and has greater corrosion resistance.

Micron Air-Filtration System

The S2000 air-conditioning system features a replaceable micron air filter capable of filtering particulate matter from 8.0 microns (the size of most pollen) down to as small as 0.3 microns (diesel emissions).

S2000 Safety Systems

The driver’s and passenger’s SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) both use a compact airbag that fits the S2000’s small steering wheel and instrument panel. The lower anchor points for the S2000’s 3-point, auto-locking seat belts are at the side sill and seat. The upper anchor bolts to a bracket mounted directly on the S2000’s rollbars.

The S2000 body and the highly rigid high X-bone frame’s central tunnel, straight front and rear side members, side sills and floor frame are designed to form a strong three-point support structure that distributes loads evenly. The resulting body structure boasts the rigidity and passenger protection of a closed-top vehicle in full-frontal and rear impacts. Even though open-topped cars are exempted, the S2000 meets the federal standard for occupant protection in a rollover accident. The driver’s and passenger’s roll bars are made of 1.5-inch diameter high-strength steel pipe with a 0.08-inch wall thickness, and tied directly into the frame. Protection is provided by reinforced door pillars, windshield posts and the windshield frame.

The S2000 incorporates pedestrian injury-reducing technol-ogy in the form of collapsible hood hinges and windshield-wiper pivots, designed to help minimize the chances of head injury to a pedestrian in a collision.

2004 Honda S2000 — Body