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2008 Honda S2000/S2000CR Roadster
You could call it the Halle Berry of the sports car world. Refined, with an understated elegance and carefully developed taste. A bit sensuous, especially when top-down, but never over the top. Carefully charismatic, the Honda S2000 Roadster has progressed through much of the past decade without a need for radical change. As a rear-drive, two-seat roadster, it bears a low, clean-lined look, with solid stance thanks to well-anchored wheels at the corners. Its appearance is light rather than ponderous which lends a supple quality. You know before you get in that it will perform well through tight, fast road curves and on straightaways building speed. Call it a driver's classic.
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Honda S2000 Interior |
Like other auto makers that eke the most out of a precious design — with sports cars probably as precious as any — for the 2008 Honda S2000, Honda expands the offering of its current small roadster rather than tossing it out for something new. For those who need escape after a frustrating day, a 2008 limited edition Club Racer (CR) version is meant to transform the dregs of a sluggish commute to the heart pounding thrill of laps at a local track.
The S2000CR, with the same six-speed manual as the S200, is designed for crisp, flexible driving the way it is needed on a track.
There's the same efficient 2.2-liter VTEC four that produces 237-HP under hood. More responsive, track ready steering and stiffer suspension for racing demands are among CR changes. For those considering serious racing duties, it's been trimmed of weight for an added performance edge. Among omissions: Air conditioning, audio, drop-top hardware (plan on removing an aluminum hard top for open air racing then reinstalling it afterwards), and even a tire repair kit. A rear anchoring wing-like spoiler is added.
CR pricing begins at $36,300, or $37,300 with AC and audio added for the "too hot to handle without it" crowd. (The S2000 clocks in at $34,300). There's no mileage penalty for going CR, either. Everyone gets the same 18/25 rating on premium fuel for bumping up their expections. |
