2002 Honda S2000: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

S2000's power soft top exchanges a plastic rear window for a glass pane with electric defroster in one of several changes for 2002. Honda's high-performance 4-cyl 2-seat convertible has a mandatory 6-speed manual transmission. The gearbox is reworked for '02 in an effort to provide smoother, quieter shifting. The interior gets extra aluminum trim, a leather-wrapped shift knob in place of an alloy piece, and a restyled console. Revised taillights wear chrome rings. Suzuka Blue is a new exterior color choice. Continuing as standard: antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, high-intensity headlamps, leather upholstery, wind deflector, and AM/FM/CD stereo--the last upgraded and more-powerful this year. A removable aluminum hardtop is optional. Side airbags are unavailable.

COMPETITION

This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat.

Audi's TT is solid, stylish, and loaded with features making it fit for the Recommended list. Like no other in its class, TT offers the all-weather advantage of available quattro AWD at a great price. Of course, if you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the Mercedes-Benz SLK. The Mercedes offers an interesting mix of performance and luxury. It also has a retractable hardtop, making it more of an all-weather car.