The Honda S2000 is a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive roadster that Honda built from 1999 to 2009. The AP1 (1999 to 2003) has a 2.0-litre VTEC engine that revs to 9,000 rpm, and it is the car most buyers want when they search for a JDM S2000. The AP2 (2004 to 2009) is the later car with a 2.2-litre engine and a different feel. Both are reliable when maintained, but the AP1 is the one with the age question.
Most buyers want one of three things: a legal route to bring a Japanese-market S2000 home, a high-revving open car for weekends, or a base for a track build. The AP1 suits all three, but the US import rule depends on the build date, which is the first thing to check.
AP1 or AP2: which S2000 should you buy?
The AP1 is the purist car. Its F20C engine is high-revving and more analog, and the chassis feels sharper. The AP2 has the F22C 2.2-litre engine, which gives more torque at low revs and a softer top end, and it is the more practical daily car. Buy the AP1 for character, and buy the AP2 for everyday use.
Honda rated the Japanese-market AP1 at 250 PS and the AP2 at 240 PS under the voluntary industry cap. Check the factory sheet for the exact car, since figures differ by market and year.
Is an S2000 legal to import to the United States?
Under the US 25-year exemption, a vehicle at least 25 years old can be imported without meeting federal safety standards, and the age runs from the date of manufacture. As of October 2026, AP1 cars built up to October 2001 meet the age test. AP1s built from late 2001 to 2003 do not yet qualify, and neither do AP2 cars. The importer declares the car on Form HS-7 under Box 1, according to NHTSA's importation FAQ. That page does not show an effective or last-updated date, so confirm the build date before buying.
Emissions and state registration are separate questions, so check your state DMV before buying.
What could go wrong with an S2000?
The S2000 has a reputation for solid reliability, but age and hard use still cause problems. Check the convertible top for tears, leaks, and a motor that works smoothly. Look at the soft-top seals and the windows for water entry.
Ask for service records and check the oil change history, because a high-revving engine punishes skipped oil changes. Check for oil leaks from the valve cover and the timing belt cover area. A car that has been run at the redline often may show wear in the engine and clutch.
Many S2000s have been modified with suspension, exhaust, and engine changes. Check the chassis plate against the registration, and read the auction sheet grade guide if the car came through an auction.
Who should buy an S2000?
Buy an AP1 if you want a high-revving, analog roadster and can accept the upkeep. Buy an AP2 if you want a usable daily car with more torque. If you prefer a lighter car with a similar feel, the Mazda MX-5 guide covers a different approach to the same idea.
Country notes
United States
The age test above is the verified federal rule. Check your state DMV for registration and emissions inspection before buying.
United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Germany
Import rules for this market are being confirmed. Check your national registry or customs authority before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the S2000 AP1 reliable?
It can be, when the engine is kept up and the car has a documented history. Service records matter more than the odometer.
Can I import an S2000 AP1 to the US now?
Only AP1 cars built up to October 2001 pass the 25-year age test as of October 2026. Confirm the build date from the chassis plate or export paperwork.
Is the AP2 a better buy than the AP1?
The AP2 is the easier car to live with, and the AP1 is the more analog car. Choose by how you plan to drive it.
What should I check on the soft top?
Look for tears, a motor that works without hesitation, and seals that close firmly. Check for water staining on the trim.
Disclaimer: Rules change. Confirm with your national registry or customs authority before buying. The US age test was checked against NHTSA on 2026-10-23.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-23. By the Japanese Auto World Editorial Team.
Photo: Honda S2000 (AP1), via Wikimedia Commons, released under CC0.
See also our guide to Japanese auction houses and the export documents checklist.
