Description

Model History

Introduced in 1999 on Honda’s 50th Anniversary, the Honda S2000 was yet another entry into Honda’s lineup of exciting, enthusiast-focused models. It was an open-top sports car that was known for its exceptional handling and true 50/50 weight distribution – helped in part by its front-mounted ‘midship’ engine layout. Carrying on the legacy of its predecessors – the S500, S600 and S800, it was also rear wheel drive and only available with a conventional manual transmission. The S2000 was composed of two generations during its production run – the first generation ‘AP1’, and the second generation ‘AP2.’ The AP1 is known as the purest of S2000s and is rare to experience a car nowadays that’s engine is capable of a 9,000rpm redline – hence its value among Honda followers and JDM fans alike. Since the end of the S2000s production run in 2009, it is unknown whether Honda would ever make a car like this again. Though among today’s generation of enthusiasts, it still remains a cult favourite: thanks in part to a diverse aftermarket support and extensive aesthetic/performance parts catalogue for the platform that continues to this day.

History File

This is a 1999 Honda S2000 (AP1), finished in Silverstone Metallic with a Black interior. This S2000 was originally imported from Japan into Hong Kong, though no auction sheet detailing its original condition is available at this time. The current owner acquired this S2000 as a project to keep themselves occupied during the pandemic but is now looking to hand this car off to someone to complete and enjoy as they no longer can dedicate time towards the car. Since they first acquired the car, they have devoted a lot of time to refurbishing this car – most of their attention has gone into the interior and running gear maintenance. They have replaced the A/C switch, replaced any interior switchgear and buttons with new units, and replaced the original interior bulbs with LED interior lights. The soft top roof has been replaced with an OEM unit from an S2000 AP2 and a set of Recaro SR6 bucket seats have been installed – the original AP1 seats will be provided. Throughout 2021, the owner replaced the water pump, all of the brake pads, all four tyres, as well as replacing all of the fluids and engine oil (consumables). The owner does report there are some visual imperfections – the driver’s side headlight does show some yellow oxidation on its surface, minor surface stone chips are on the front, and some of the original S2000 alloy wheels do have visible surface marks. The owner would like to highlight that among other S2000s currently in the market, this is a very clean, original-spec S2000 that has remained free of any significant modifications – with all of its original suspension and engine untouched under their ownership. This S2000 has a current mileage of 175,300 km and the current road licence is valid until 27th July, 2023.

Exterior

Visual inspection found the Silverstone Metallic paint finish to be in excellent condition with no major blemishes or imperfections to note. The current owner reports there are the slightest of stone chips on the front from regular use, but the front bumper itself, as well as the rear bumper and side skirts remain aligned and straight. The doors, bonnet, and boot all open and close normally – no corrosion can be seen in their hinges or latches. Both door handles are in excellent condition. Some surface wear was noted on the exterior windscreen A-Pillars, but some TLC can restore their original appearance if desired. A subtle mark was found on the passenger side door mirror, but a touch-up can easily remove this aesthetic imperfection – both door mirrors do not have any major surface damage. As reported by the seller, the driver’s side headlight does display some yellow oxidation on its surface: a refurbishment can restore its original appearance. The headlights, tail lights, and side markers illuminate normally. The S2000 AP2 soft top has been well looked after with no tears in any of its material – the roof itself retracts and raises without any issues. All of the Honda and S2000 exterior emblems are present with none missing any trim pieces. Both exhaust tips are in excellent condition with no patina visible on their metal surfaces. As reported by the current owner, there are some surface marks on all four 16” S2000 AP1 alloy wheels, but none of them has any severe kerb rash or damage – a refurbishment can restore their original appearance.

Interior and Trim

Inside this S2000 AP1, the interior has been preserved in all of its original form – with minimal distractions to allow the driver to focus on enjoying this two-door Honda roadster. Both Recaro SR6 seats are very supportive and hold both occupants firmly in place – none of them show any surface tears or damage. The leather steering wheel is free of any wear on all of its portions. The metal surfaced gear shift knob and shift boot are all fully intact with no surface wear. Flip down the centre dashboard cover and the original S2000 Honda radio cassette player can be found – all of its buttons and functions operate normally. The leather handbrake lever has had none of its upholstery peeled off. The iconic electronic instrument cluster prominently displays the full 9,000 RPM rev range – as well as displays the current engine temperature and fuel level functions without any faults. All of the switchgear and buttons still feel solid to touch and use, as well as the air vents. A small tear was observed on the driver’s side padded armrest, but this can be remedied with some TLC to remove this imperfection – the rest of the side door panels and scuff plates with ‘S2000’ and ‘Honda’ logos are free of any major surface damage or wear.

Engine and Running Gear 

Press the ‘Engine Start’ button located to the right of the steering wheel and the 2.0L F20C inline-four-cylinder engine springs to life. Upon full acceleration – the F20C revs all the way to its 9,000rpm with the VTEC crossover clearly audible at peak range. Around the corners, it remains planted to the ground – the steering and handling feel direct and responsive. The gear shifts were direct and smooth and all of the interior switchgear was easy to use – allowing the driver to jump in and immediately feel comfortable driving this S2000. The brakes have plenty of life left to provide ample stopping power to this roadster. Do not miss out on the opportunity to own and enjoy this very clean, original and unmodified S2000 AP1 – exclusively available at the Car Farm.

Buyer’s Premium:

5% of Winning Bid

(Minimum – HKD8,000.00)

(Maximum – HKD50,000.00)