Honda S2000 Roadster

STYLING changes and mechanical and suspension refinements have been combined to further enhance Honda's sports car for purists - the rear wheel drive two-seater S2000 roadster, which I was able to drive on routes around north and west Yorkshire.

The dinky but potent race-bred S2000 is powered by a two litre 238 horsepower VTEC engine built by the acknowledged experts in the field and it is mated to a silky six-speed gearbox.

It is capable of scorching from 60mph from standing in 6.2 seconds and it has a top speed potential of 150 miles an hour.

An even more responsive car as far as handling and grip are concerned has been created by the revision.

The test car's bodywork was painted a vivid yellow pearlescent, one of several new colours that have been introduced.

At last year's revision, the look of the car was enhanced by the fitment of bigger alloy 17 inch wheels with a twin five spoke pattern. The Bridgestone tyres were changed accordingly and, it is claimed, give a better balance between wet and dry performance.

It never rains when you want it to, does it?

To complement the car's stunning performance, the stopping power was improved with the advanced ABS braking system being given software to cope even more effectively with moments when the wheels experience different surface grip.

S2000's arrow-like nose took on a new appearance thanks to the adoption of a triple beam headlamp assembly which includes high intensity discharge low beam headlights. The tail-lights weren't forgotten, their brightness having been enhanced.

The new rear bumper is flush with twin chrome exhaust pipes.

Elbow and leg room wasn't one of the original car's greatest assets and so this has also been improved.

Also inside the car there's lots of silver and leather trim including those obligatory punch-holed pedals.

The instrumentation has been massively improved and includes an arced rev counter with the redlines at 9,000. That maximum power is actually achieved at 8,300.

There's also a digital clock and two cup holders have been provided this time round.

Sports cars have been called selfish cars on account of the fact you don't have to give anyone a lift but one cupholder was a bit much!

Starting is by push-button and the engine note has been suitably tuned to please. Which is why you can buy, optionally, two extra speakers to "enhance" the audio system.

Security has to be the optimum for a ragtop and here a microwave intrusion detection system is fitted along with a handle lock rod protector.

Sticker price is £26,600 and for a premium of £1,000 you can obtain the GT model which includes a hardtop, cover and stand.

Verdict: The original has been a worldwide winner and now it's even better. The kind of car so many promise themselves.

Fact File...

Car: Honda S2000.

Configuration: Two door roadster, open top.

Engine: 4 cylinder 1997cc DOHC.

Maximum output: 238 hp at 8,300.

Top speed: 150mph.

Transmission: Six speed manual, rear drive.

Steering: Rack and pinion, electric power assistance.

Brakes: ABS.

Wheels: 17 inch.

Fuel tank: 50 litres.

Length: 13ft 8in.