Will Honda launch a successor to the S2000 for its 70th anniversary?

The Honda S2000 was a very eye-catching model in its day. Its small roadster body, rear-wheel drive and high power made it a really fun car on winding roads and, therefore, highly desirable.

It arrived on the market in 1998, just as the brand from the land of the rising sun celebrated half a century of history, giving itself a tribute. Since then, the Honda S2000 has had a large number of followers around the world who invest their savings to keep the car in pristine condition.

Now, 18 years later, we hear rumours about a possible successor to the S2000. If confirmed, it would logically arrive on the market in 2018, as it would mark the 20th anniversary of the Honda S2000’s launch and the 70th birthday of the Japanese brand. In fact, to celebrate the brand’s 70th birthday, it seems Honda has a motorcycle derived directly from the Honda RC213V-S ready.

I believe, without fear of being wrong, that all motoring enthusiasts would be delighted if Honda presented and sold a model in the style of the S2000. The main drawback is that the Japanese manufacturer currently has no platform on which to develop a car like this in terms of size and characteristics, although it could be that the one for the new Honda NSX could serve them.

As for the engine, Honda would have no problems. The new Civic Type R incorporates a 2-litre supercharged petrol engine that delivers 310 horsepower in the compact model. With relatively few adjustments it could be tuned for a driving style in the manner of a roadster and placed in a longitudinal position to send its power to the rear axle. This, combined with a limited-slip differential and a light, compact body, would result in an “affordable” vehicle capable of delivering huge doses of fun. Though, honestly, we wouldn’t be surprised if they opted for hybridisation… Something that would kill the original S2000’s charisma.

I hope Honda dares to develop a vehicle like this. We would see a fine battle with the Mazda MX-5 and the 124 Spider, don’t you think?

Via | caranddriver