Honda might be planning something big for its 70th anniversary: the return of the S2000.
“A large complement of R&D staff from Japan are already in Ohio working on the car,” an unnamed source told They have more time now that the NSX is finished.”
Launching the new S2000 in 2018 would line up with Honda’s 70th anniversary, a fitting gift for the brand’s birthday especially considering the original S2000 was launched in 1998 for Honda’s 50th birthday. A special Honda motorcycle will also launch to celebrate the occasion.
“Based on the company’s MotoGP contender, the bike will be a detuned, road-going version of the RC213V-S,” said the insider. “As for the car, expect something special. Size-wise, it’ll be similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but the Honda will have a lot more power.”
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Honda doesn’t currently have a dedicated rear-drive platform that would fit the bill for a new S2000, so the new roadster will need a dedicated platform. Though that seems prohibitive, the Honda insider points out that the NSX supercar and S660 mini-coupe both ride on their own platforms, suggesting that the new S2000 will be a standalone product.
The new S2000 may resemble the Acura Precision Concept (seen above) which was recently revealed at the Detroit Auto Show, and it could also make use of the concept’s powertrain; a 2.0-liter turbocharged four banger connected to a single rear-mounted electric motor and two front electric motors.
The powerplant will likely be a less powerful version of the 2.0-liter turbo that powers the Civic Type R, though the electric power will help to keep horsepower at a respectable level.
According to the new S2000 will be built alongside the NSX in Ohio, while here in the U.S. it will be sold as an Acura.
[Source: Car and Driver]
