Honda S2000 Engine: Mini But Mighty

Amanda T
Feb 9, 2021

Gray 2009 Honda S2000 From Front-Driver Side

Manufactured from 2000 to 2009, the open-top Honda S2000 is a popular, sporty convertible with a 2.2 L 4-cylinder engine. Over time, this engine has become a popular option for car enthusiasts to rebuild.

What are the specs of the Honda S2000 engine? 

The F20C and F22C1 engines were produced by Honda for the S2000. These 2.2L (121.9-131.6 ci) 4-cylinder, 237 hp engines were created to work with the vehicle’s rear-wheel drive power train, and are distantly related to the mid-1990s Accord and Prelude engines.   

Whether you’re thinking about upgrading an old S2000 or you’re thinking of buying one new-to-you and driving it as-is, it’s a good idea to understand the engine in the car you’re considering. Here, we’ll explore the history of the S2000’s engine, as well as discuss common questions from drivers.

History of the Honda S2000 Engine

The S2000 engine was first created in 1995 as a concept car and went into production in 1999 in preparation for the 2000 launch of the S2000. The engine is named for its displacement of two liters, pushing the envelope for the S500, S600, and S800 engine models from the 1960s.

This naturally aspirated inline-4 engine with an automatic transmission underwent a few changes throughout its production.

The first version of the S2000 engine is 121.9 cubic inches, while the second version is slightly larger at 131.6 cu in.

What Drivers Need to Know About the Honda S2000 Engine

The Honda S2000 is aimed at drivers who love sports cars, and the engine packs the power. The engine was designed with racing performance in mind, and whether you choose to drive on the road or the track, you’ll love the smooth hum of the power under the hood.

Think back to nearly two decades ago – The Fast and the Furious released in 2001, and drivers everywhere were looking for high-performance vehicles that would turn heads with both looks and speed. The Honda S2000 did both, with a sleek style and a strong engine that provided drivers with the performance they craved.

People Also Ask These Questions Related to the Honda S2000 Engine

Common questions about the Honda S2000 engine include:

What Engine Comes in an S2000?

The F20C and F22C1 engines come standard in the Honda S2000, and are designed to sit longitudinally to support the vehicle’s rear-wheel drive train.

Which Year Honda S2000 Is Best?

Many Honda enthusiasts prefer the original 2000 year model, stating that it performs well both on the road and on the track.

Why Was the Honda S2000 Discontinued?

There’s no doubt about it: The S2000 was popular. Honda has stated that they stopped production on the vehicle in response to market demands for crossovers instead of sports performance vehicles.

What Year Did the Honda S000 Come Out?

The vehicle was launched in 2000.

Why Are Honda S2000s So Expensive?

The vehicle is comparable to (but more expensive than) the Porsche Boxster, likely because the S2000 is highly desirable but made in small numbers.

avatar Amanda T
Amanda T. is a freelance writer, mom, and health nut who refuses to drive anything other than a Nissan. She has six years of automotive writing experience, and loves providing drivers with well-researched information to help them make informed decisions.
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