2008 Honda S2000 in Bridgewater, NJ - $36,352

With the push of a race car-style button, high-tech performance rumbles to life in the Honda S2000 roadster. A direct beneficiary of technological advances developed by Honda engineers over the past four decades of racing on circuits around the world, the rear-drive S2000 is a real driver's car.

Notable changes to the S2000 last year included electronic Drive-by-Wire (DBW) Throttle System, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), maintenance minder system, standard headrest speakers, an outside temperature gauge, revised seat and console designs, a unique new alloy wheel design and the addition of Laguna Blue Pearl as an exterior color.

The Honda roadster is equipped with a lethal high-revving 2.2L DOHC VTEC 16-valve four-cylinder engine, bolted to a precise close ratio six-speed manual transmission with direct shift linkage, torque-sensitive limited-slip differential and an internal pressurized lubrication system.

Underway, the S2000 becomes an integral part of a very personal relationship between man, machine and roadway. Fast and controlled, its low, wide stance enhances stability and control. The manual gearbox provides a direct, quick and smooth shift feeling. This is a pure driver’s car â€"- old school performance meets modern underpinnings. Add bulletproof Japanese reliability and it is a winning combination that will yield smiles for miles.

The small Honda roadster features 50/50 front-to-rear weight distribution, a highly rigid body construction and is designed with in-wheel double wishbone control hardware at the corners to provide optimum geometry for maximum tire contact and adhesion. The fundamental structure is a load-dispersing frame design which Honda calls an "X-Bone Monocoque frame." This design is extremely rigid, providing very high torsional strength.

In the cabin, Honda designed a purposeful interior, modeled after a Formula One race-car cockpit. Complete vehicle and accessory control is offered with no movement from the driving position. All controls are immediately in front of the driver with the digital instrument panel presenting information in a clear, easy-to-read format. A four-way adjustable driver's seat allows for maximum driver comfort and support.

Electronic heating and ventilation controls are located on a faceted panel facing the driver from the center of the digital instrument panel. Audio controls are within easy reach to the left of the steering column or on the center console.

A power system raises or lowers the vehicle's soft top. A soft boot covers the stowed top. No hard top is offered.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 94.5; overall length: 162.2; width: 68.9; height: 50.0 -- all vehicle measurements in inches.

Engine: 2.2L four-cylinder -- 237 hp at 7,800 rpm and 162 lbs-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed close-ratio manual with torque-sensing limited slip differential.

EPA fuel economy: 20 city/26 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 5.0 cu. ft.

Parts content -â€" country of origin

Final assembly point: Suzuka, Mie, Japan.

Japan: 100 percent.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, vehicle stability assist, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, daytime running lights, four-disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, engine immobilizer, remote engine start, limited slip differential, stability control and traction control.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Honda S2000 roadster starts from $34,250. Destination charges add $595.

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