We say Loveable, bonkers roadster that might just kill you.Performance The S2000’s 240 2.0-litre petrol engine only delivers peak performance at high revs – the redline is at an absurd 8,800 rpm. It’s well-behaved in town but in transforms into a mad thing on the straight, but has to be worked hard to get it up to 6000rpm, where it changes profile and becomes insane.Emissions 28.2mpg is possible with the petrol engine; not bad considering the S2000 likes to be driven hard and fast – and you’d only buy one if you were of a like mind.Driving Handling and grip are superb, though the S2000 can get a little twitchy with all the torque going to the rear wheels. Slightly firm ride provides good body control on the whole. A limited-slip differential, excellent six-speed manual box and 50/50 weight distribution aids handling enormously.Feel Plenty of engine noise from the S2000’s powerplant, but that's forgivable. Take the top down at speed and you'll have a new hairdo in seconds. High revving engine means the S2000 is not the most refined car on the motorway.Space Plenty of space for two in the S2000 but the boot size is very poor at 142 litres and there’s no glovebox.Equipment CD player, aircon, alloys, leather, remote central locking, electric windows, electric mirrors, electric roof and electric power steering are standard on the S2000.Price High insurance, low fuel economy and cheap list price, relatively speaking. The S2000 could be a bit of a bargain, depending on how you look at it.Quality Superb Honda build quality inside and divine inside. The 2.0-litre powerplant should be bulletproof. The folding electronic roof needs to be manually unclipped and only stows or raises when the S2000 is stationary, which is a bit awkward, but it folds in six seonds.Safety Two bags and ABS as standard on the S2000. Four NCAP stars out of a maximum five, which was not bad for when the Roadster was tested. Traction control and then stability control were added later in the S2000’s lifetime, both are worth seeking out.Pros Great drive, great to look at, great price.Cons High running costs.Alternatives BMW Z4, Mercedes SLK, Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster
