The early 2000s were a fantastic time for Honda sports car enthusiasts. This era saw the continuation of some legendary models and the introduction of new vehicles that captured the hearts of many. When you think about Honda sports cars in the early 2000s, images of sleek designs, high-revving engines, and exceptional handling probably come to mind. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the standout models from that period.

S2000: The Roadster Icon

Let's kick things off with the Honda S2000, arguably the most iconic sports car from Honda in the early 2000s. Produced from 1999 to 2009, the S2000 was a high-revving, open-top roadster that delivered an exhilarating driving experience. The heart of the S2000 was its F20C engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four that produced an impressive 240 horsepower. What made this engine so special was its ability to rev up to a staggering 9,000 RPM. This high-revving nature, combined with a precise six-speed manual transmission, made every drive feel like a track day. The S2000 wasn't just about power; it was also about balance and handling. Its lightweight chassis, combined with a sophisticated suspension system, provided incredible agility and responsiveness. Whether you were carving through mountain roads or cruising along the coast, the S2000 offered a pure and engaging driving experience that few cars could match.

The S2000's design was also a major draw. Its long hood, short deck, and sleek lines gave it a timeless and sporty appearance. The interior was driver-focused, with simple and functional controls. The digital instrument cluster was a nod to modern technology, while the overall layout emphasized the driving experience. Throughout its production run, the S2000 received several updates and improvements. The AP1 model, produced from 1999 to 2003, featured a more aggressive suspension setup and a slightly different engine tuning. The AP2 model, introduced in 2004, had a revised suspension, updated styling, and a slightly larger 2.2-liter engine (in some markets). Both versions of the S2000 are highly sought after by enthusiasts today. The Honda S2000 remains a benchmark for sports cars, known for its incredible engine, precise handling, and timeless design. For anyone looking to experience the pinnacle of Honda's engineering prowess from the early 2000s, the S2000 is an excellent choice. Its legacy continues to inspire and influence sports car enthusiasts around the world.

Integra Type R: The Front-Wheel Drive Legend

Next up is the Integra Type R, a front-wheel-drive sports car that achieved legendary status in the late 1990s and early 2000s. While the Integra was available in various trims, it was the Type R that truly stood out. The Integra Type R was known for its exceptional handling, high-revving engine, and lightweight design. Under the hood, the Integra Type R featured a B18C5 engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four that produced around 195 horsepower. Like the S2000's engine, the B18C5 was designed to rev high, with a redline of around 8,400 RPM. This engine, combined with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, made the Integra Type R incredibly quick and responsive. The Integra Type R's chassis was also heavily modified compared to the standard Integra. Honda engineers reinforced the chassis, added stiffer springs and dampers, and reduced weight wherever possible. The result was a car that felt incredibly sharp and precise on the road. The Integra Type R was renowned for its ability to carve through corners with minimal body roll and maximum grip.

The exterior of the Integra Type R was understated yet purposeful. It featured a distinctive rear spoiler, a front air dam, and lightweight alloy wheels. The interior was similarly focused on performance, with Recaro seats, a Momo steering wheel, and a titanium shift knob. The Integra Type R was not just about straight-line speed; it was about the overall driving experience. It was a car that rewarded skilled drivers and made every drive feel special. Although the Integra Type R was only available in certain markets, it gained a cult following around the world. Its reputation for performance and reliability made it a favorite among enthusiasts. Today, the Integra Type R remains a highly sought-after sports car, with well-maintained examples commanding high prices. Its legacy as one of the best front-wheel-drive cars ever made is well-deserved. If you're looking for a sports car that offers a pure and engaging driving experience, the Integra Type R is definitely worth considering. Its combination of high-revving engine, precise handling, and lightweight design makes it a true classic. For those who appreciate the art of driving, the Integra Type R is a car that will continue to impress for years to come.

Civic Si: The Affordable Performer

For those seeking a more affordable yet still engaging option, the Civic Si from the early 2000s was an excellent choice. The Civic Si offered a blend of practicality, performance, and value that made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The Civic Si was powered by a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter inline-four engine, depending on the model year. These engines were known for their smooth power delivery and willingness to rev. While the Civic Si didn't have the same raw power as the S2000 or Integra Type R, it still offered plenty of fun on the road. The Civic Si's chassis was also tuned for performance, with stiffer suspension and improved brakes. This made the Civic Si more responsive and agile than the standard Civic. The Civic Si was a great all-around car that could be used for daily commuting or weekend track days.

The exterior of the Civic Si was sporty yet understated. It featured a rear spoiler, unique alloy wheels, and Si badging. The interior was well-equipped, with sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a sunroof. The Civic Si was a practical and comfortable car that was also fun to drive. Throughout the early 2000s, the Civic Si underwent several changes and improvements. The 2002-2005 Civic Si (EP3) was particularly popular, with its unique hatchback design and 2.0-liter engine. This generation of the Civic Si offered a great balance of performance and practicality. The Civic Si remains a popular choice among enthusiasts today, thanks to its affordable price, reliable performance, and fun-to-drive nature. If you're looking for a sports car that won't break the bank, the Civic Si is definitely worth considering. Its combination of practicality, performance, and value makes it a true winner. For those who appreciate a well-rounded sports car, the Civic Si is a car that will continue to deliver smiles for years to come.

RSX Type-S: The Premium Sport Coupe

Another notable mention from Honda's early 2000s lineup is the RSX Type-S. Known in some markets as the Acura RSX Type-S, this sport coupe offered a more premium experience compared to the Civic Si, while still delivering a thrilling drive. The RSX Type-S was powered by a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, producing around 200 horsepower. This engine, combined with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, made the RSX Type-S a joy to drive. The RSX Type-S also featured a sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and stylish exterior enhancements. The RSX Type-S was positioned as a more refined and sophisticated sports car compared to the Civic Si. Its sleek design, comfortable interior, and powerful engine made it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

The exterior of the RSX Type-S was characterized by its clean lines, sporty front fascia, and rear spoiler. The interior was well-appointed, with leather seats, a premium sound system, and various upscale features. The RSX Type-S was a car that offered a blend of performance and luxury. While it may not have had the same raw performance as the Integra Type R or the open-top thrills of the S2000, the RSX Type-S offered a well-rounded package that appealed to many drivers. The RSX Type-S remains a sought-after sports car today, with its combination of style, performance, and features making it a great value for enthusiasts. If you're looking for a sport coupe that offers a touch of luxury, the RSX Type-S is definitely worth considering. Its refined driving experience and upscale features make it a standout choice in the early 2000s Honda lineup. For those who appreciate a blend of performance and comfort, the RSX Type-S is a car that continues to impress.

Conclusion

The early 2000s were a golden age for Honda sports cars, with a diverse range of models that catered to different tastes and budgets. From the high-revving S2000 to the front-wheel-drive legend Integra Type R, the affordable performer Civic Si, and the premium sport coupe RSX Type-S, there was something for everyone. These cars were not just about performance; they were also about the driving experience. They were designed to be engaging, responsive, and fun to drive. Today, these Honda sports cars remain highly sought after by enthusiasts, with well-maintained examples commanding strong prices. Their legacy as some of the best sports cars ever made is well-deserved. If you're looking to experience the thrill of driving a classic Honda sports car from the early 2000s, you won't be disappointed. These cars continue to deliver smiles and inspire passion among car enthusiasts around the world.