In 1999, Japanese automaker Honda made waves in the sports car world with the introduction of their now-famed S2000. The front-mid engine roadster celebrated the company's 50th anniversary and followed the company’s tradition of naming cars after their engine displacement, with the 2000 signifying a 2.0 L engine. Two variants of the S2000, the AP1 and AP2, were produced throughout the model’s lifetime with a few special editions in between.

The AP1 was powered by a two liter four cylinder mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that outputs 237 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque in the US market. This was the highest specific power output, 124 hp per liter or 2 hp per cubic inch, of any mass-produced, naturally aspirated car until the Ferrari 458 Italia took the throne in 2010. The double wishbone suspension and the front-mid mounting position of the engine gave the S2000 the golden 50:50 weight distribution and excellent handling around curves. Inside, the dashboard called back to the McLaren-Honda Formula-1 racing cars of the eighties and nineties as a tribute to what Honda’s engines achieved in professional racing. The electrically powered vinyl convertible top was standard while an aluminum hardtop was available as an option starting in 2001.

In 2004, the AP2 took over. It introduced bigger wheels, improved suspension, a more rigid subframe, and carbon fiber synchronizers in the gearbox. Cosmetically, the AP2 had new bumpers, revised headlights, LED taillights, and oval exhaust tips. The US market also received a larger engine, dubbed the F22C1, with an increased displacement of 2.2 L and 162 lb-ft of torque. The hp figures remained unchanged but were achieved at a lower 7,800 rpm.

2008 was the first year that the S2000 was offered in more than one trim level in the US. The Club Racer was introduced as a more track-oriented and spartan version of the sports car with reduced weight and higher performance. Mechanical improvements included a lower ratio steering rack, revised exhaust system, and stiffer suspension. On the outside, the S2000 CR was fitted with black lug nuts, darker-colored wheels, clear side markers, and a revised body kit that reduced the lift coefficient by a claimed 70–80%. Only a hard top was offered, with the soft top’s folding space being filled with additional chassis bracing.

On the interior, faux carbon fiber overlays adorned the center console and the radio door while the gauge cluster received a unique peak power indicator light. A CR-specific yellow-lettered aluminum shift knob topped the gear shifter. Only 699 examples were produced in the model’s two-year lifespan, with 668 in 2008 and only 31 in 2009.

This particular example is one of only 31 S2000 CRs produced in 2009 and shows only 129 miles on the odometer. The exterior is finished in Rio Yellow Pearl with a black and yellow Alcantara and cloth interior. This Club Racer was optioned with air conditioning and a radio to make driving more comfortable when off the track. The factory 17″ five-spoke alloy wheels are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires measuring 215/45 up front and 255/40 out back.

It goes without saying that everything on this example is nearly brand new, from the bright yellow paint job to the soft-touch Alcantara on the interior. The controls, while scarce given this model’s track-focused pedigree, show no wear and function as intended. The five-spoke wheels present without scratches or curb rash and all of the factory aero is intact and ready to stick this JDM legend to the track pavement.

There is so much potential waiting to be awakened in this S2000 CR. The AP1 and AP2 models are legends in their own right, but the CR takes it to a whole other level. Between the extremely low miles, the low production numbers, and the fact that this was the only alternative trim level offered in the US market, the S2000 CR is the one that is most sought after by JDM collectors, and this is likely the finest example extant.

Upon purchase, the new owner will receive all of the owner’s booklets in their original pouch, the original window sticker, and two keys.

Offers welcome and trades considered

$240,000

Stock number 7671