The Honda S2000 is an iconic roadster with an indelible mark on sports cars. Launched in 1999 to celebrate Honda’s 50th anniversary, the S2000 became a symbol of precision engineering, offering a blend of high-revving performance, exceptional handling, and a thrilling driving experience. Throughout its production run from 1999 to 2009, the S2000 underwent two significant revisions: the AP1 and the AP2. While both versions share many similarities, several key differences distinguish them. This article will explore the differences between the Honda S2000 AP1 vs AP2, including their performance, design, technology, and overall driving experience.
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Background: The Honda S2000’s Legacy
Before we get into the specifics of the AP1 and AP2, it’s worth understanding what made the S2000 such a revered model. Honda’s goal with the S2000 was to create a roadster that captured the essence of driving pleasure and showcased the brand’s engineering prowess. The S2000 was powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre (later a 2.2-litre) inline-four engine that could rev up to an astonishing 8,900 RPM, delivering impressive performance.
The AP1, produced from 1999 to 2003, set the tone for the S2000 with its aggressive performance characteristics. However, it wasn’t long before Honda recognised that there were areas of the car that could be improved, particularly regarding ride comfort, handling balance, and overall usability. The AP2, produced from 2004 to 2009, brought subtle yet significant improvements to the car, refining the experience without losing the essence of the S2000.
Engine and Performance: AP1 vs AP2
The engine is one of the most important aspects of any sports car, and the S2000 is no exception. The AP1 and AP2 feature inline-four engines, but there are differences in displacement, power output, and tuning.
AP1: The High-Reving 2.0-Litre Engine
The AP1 is powered by a 2.0-litre F20C engine, known for its high-revving nature and impressive specific output. Producing 240 horsepower at 8,300 RPM and 153 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 RPM, the AP1’s engine can achieve a 0-60 mph time of around 6.2 seconds. One of the key features of the F20C engine is its incredibly high redline, which gives the car a unique character compared to other roadsters of the time. The engine’s responsiveness and willingness to rev made it a joy for driving enthusiasts, especially those who enjoyed pushing the car to its limits on twisty roads or race tracks.
The AP1’s engine is mated to a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox, which enhances the car’s performance and engagement. The AP1 is often praised for its sharp throttle response, which allows drivers to exploit the engine’s high-revving nature to its fullest.
AP2: The Refined 2.2-Litre Engine
The AP2 features a significant engine change. Honda replaced the 2.0-litre F20C engine with a larger 2.2-litre F22C engine. The increased displacement resulted in a slight reduction in peak horsepower (237 bhp at 7,800 RPM) but a notable increase in torque (162 lb-ft at 6,500 RPM). This change was designed to improve the car’s usability, particularly at lower engine speeds, where the AP1’s F20C engine could sometimes feel a bit peaky and difficult to drive smoothly.
The AP2’s additional torque makes the car more responsive in everyday driving conditions. While the higher-revving nature of the F20C engine was thrilling, the F22C engine’s increased torque makes the AP2 feel more relaxed and less fussy, especially for drivers who aren’t looking to wring the engine out to extract performance constantly. The AP2’s 0-60 mph time is very similar to that of the AP1, clocking in at around 6.0 seconds, but it feels more composed and balanced in various driving scenarios.
Suspension and Handling: Fine-Tuning the Ride
While the AP1 and AP2 are renowned for their exceptional handling, there are notable differences in how they behave on the road, primarily due to changes in suspension setup and chassis tuning.
AP1: The Raw and Agile Roadster
The AP1 is often considered the purer of the two models regarding driving dynamics. Its suspension setup, featuring double wishbones at both the front and rear, gives the car an incredibly responsive and agile feel. The AP1 feels nimble and sharp, directly connecting the steering and the road. The car’s relatively stiff suspension setup makes it feel tightly controlled in corners, resulting in a firmer, less comfortable ride.
The AP1 is a true delight for enthusiasts who appreciate a raw, unfiltered driving experience. The car’s precise steering and high-revving engine make it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a more track-oriented car with a strong connection to the road. However, the stiffness of the suspension can be a drawback for those who prefer a more comfortable and composed ride on everyday roads.
AP2: The Refined and Balanced Roadster
Honda made several improvements to the AP2’s suspension to enhance handling and ride comfort. While the AP2 still uses a similar double-wishbone suspension setup, the spring rates, damping, and overall tuning have been refined to better balance performance and comfort. The suspension changes allow the AP2 to be more forgiving on bumpy roads and less prone to harshness while maintaining impressive handling performance.
The AP2’s chassis feels more planted and composed, with less twitchiness than some drivers associated with the AP1. The improved suspension and revised rear differential allow the AP2 to tackle corners confidently, making it a more approachable car for both spirited driving and daily use.
Exterior and Interior Design: Subtle Evolution
Although the S2000’s exterior design remained broadly consistent throughout its production run, a few subtle differences between the AP1 and AP2 are worth noting.
AP1: The Classic Roadster Look
The AP1 features a classic roadster design with sharp lines and a purposeful stance. Its low-slung body, wide fenders, and aggressive front end give it a sporty and muscular appearance. The front headlights on the AP1 are more angular and aggressive, while the rear features a prominent rear diffuser that enhances the car’s sporty aesthetic.
Inside, the AP1 has a driver-focused cockpit with minimal distractions. The centre console is simple, and the seats are supportive but not overly comfortable, as the car was designed with performance in mind. The interior features a mixture of leather and cloth, with a functional layout that prioritises driving experience over luxury.
AP2: The More Refined Roadster
The AP2 retains the core design of the AP1 but incorporates a few subtle changes that give it a more refined appearance. The front bumper and rear tail light design were revised slightly, offering a more modern look. The AP2’s wheels are also slightly larger, enhancing its sporty stance.
Inside, Honda improved the quality of materials, including a better-feeling dashboard and improved seat upholstery. The cabin is slightly quieter, and ride comfort has been enhanced, making the AP2 a more pleasant car for long journeys. While the overall design remains similar, the AP2 feels more polished and user-friendly compared to the AP1.
Technology and Features: Embracing Modernity
Both the AP1 and AP2 feature a relatively sparse list of modern technologies, as the focus of the S2000 was always on driving performance rather than luxury. However, the AP2 received a few updates to keep the car competitive with newer models.
AP1: The Basics
The AP1 had a basic stereo system, power windows, and air conditioning. The lack of advanced features reflected the S2000’s focus on driving purity rather than creature comforts. The standard trim of the AP1 was quite spartan, with cloth seats and minimal interior features.
AP2: Improved Features
The AP2 introduced a few more modern amenities, including an upgraded stereo system with better sound quality and improved sound insulation, which helped reduce road and engine noise inside the cabin. The AP2 also offered a more refined interior, with improved materials used in the cabin, making it feel more upscale compared to the earlier AP1. However, the AP2 maintained the S2000’s minimalist approach, focusing on driving rather than unnecessary technology.
Reliability and Maintenance: What to Expect
The Honda S2000 is regarded as a reliable car with a well-engineered engine and robust build quality. However, like any performance car, regular maintenance is required to keep it in optimal condition. The AP1 and AP2 are similar in terms of reliability, although there are a few things to be aware of for each generation.
AP1: Higher Maintenance Costs
The AP1, with its higher-revving F20C engine, requires more frequent valve adjustments and can be more sensitive to poor maintenance. The engine’s high-revving nature places additional strain on components, and enthusiasts who want to get the most out of their AP1 should ensure they keep up with regular oil changes, spark plug replacement, and valve adjustments.
AP2: Easier to Maintain
The AP2’s F22C engine is more forgiving and less demanding than the F20C, making it somewhat easier to maintain. The engine’s increased torque and reduced need for frequent revving make it more suitable for daily use, although regular maintenance is still essential for keeping the car in top condition.
Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?
The Honda S2000 AP1 and AP2 are fantastic cars embodying the brand’s commitment to engineering excellence and driving pleasure. However, each has its unique character, and your choice between the two will depend on your preferences as a driver.
If you’re looking for a more raw, high-revving experience with an emphasis on agility and sharp handling, the AP1 is the one for you. Its higher-revving engine and firmer suspension setup make it a valid driver’s car, ideal for those who enjoy a more track-focused experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced and comfortable roadster with improved torque and a more refined driving experience, the AP2 is likely the better choice. The additional torque from the F22C engine, enhanced suspension, and overall refinement make the AP2 a more well-rounded and usable car for daily driving without compromising too much performance.
Both versions of the Honda S2000 are a joy to drive, and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference. Whether you opt for the earlier, more raw AP1 or the more refined AP2, you’ll experience the performance and driving excitement that only a Honda S2000 can deliver.