Honda S2000

When the word ‘roadster’ comes to mind, probably the first image that pops out of the mind is the Z3. However, before James Bond was able to retrofit his Z3 with rockets, Mazda was already selling a cheaper, yet essentially the same, MX5 or in the US, known as the Miata. And true enough, the roadster revolution did not start from Stuttgart or Munich, but it all started in Tokyo. Thus, it would be proper that another Japanese company take on the challenge to build another exciting roadster.
Enter Honda, with vast experience in Formula One and Indycar racing, they are probably the best bet to beat the road-ruling German roadsters. With the unveiling of the SSM show car in 1995, it was a clear message that Honda was dead serious about the roadster market. Three years later, Honda polishes and fixes the SSM and made a name change to is US name of SSX or in Japan, what they call S2000.

Though it does not have the same level of sex appeal as that of the Boxster, it carries itself quite well. At a full head-on shot, the SSX may look like a catfish, but its three-quarter view is absolutely stunning. The lines are absolutely clean and not overdone. However, the rear end is the disappointing factor for the SSX. Large, clear brake lamps are just not right for a roadster. Shiny, twin exhaust pipes on either side of the car and sporty, mags contribute to the sporty nature of this car.

Its interior is a mix of generic Honda with a dash of sport. Much like other Honda’s, the SSX is expected to have great ergonomics and control switches, and with the 2401-mm wheelbase it provides ample interior room to match that of the Z3. Meanwhile the digital speedometer and the edge arching tachometer, which are not traditional Honda, can be converted from English to metric system with a touch of a button. The fuel and temperature gauges are located at the bottom of the instrument panel. The seats are no undoubtedly sports-racing bucket type combining with a huge front windscreen for excellent forward vision.
Unsurprisingly, Honda did not target the 133 bhp, 1.8-liter MX5, rather it targeted the Autobahn cruisers Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and BMW whose roadsters have 201, 193 and 189 bhp respectively. Tested in the old Nurburgring in Germany, Honda decided to use a 2.0-liter DOHC VTEC LEV engine which churns out an amazing 240 bhp. In addition to this, a 6-speed short-throw gearbox has been added for more fun. In addition to this, this front-engine, rear-wheel drive car has an amazing weight distribution of 50 / 50, which says ‘better handling’.

Speaking of handling, the SSX will be introduced with electric-power steering which will improve the ‘communication’ between driver and car. Also, by using the same upper and lower A-arms, coil strings, tube shocks and anti-roll bar suspension of the NSX, the SSX will undoubtedly be a leech around the corners.

That’s not all. Honda made sure that this car would be one of their safest for both passenger and environment as well. It can survive a full-front barrier test at 55-km/h and offset deformation barrier test at 64 km/h. And it comes with Honda’s LEV (low emission vehicle) engine which ensures a cleaner fuel-burning car. A true sportscar for the next millenium?

Now, with all of the pros and cons mentioned, can this car truly be a Boxster beater? Oh, yes. Not only will the SSX be priced handsomely lower than its German counterpart, it is faster, more powerful, albeit more sporty too. However, like other Japanese cars, the problem is not out-performing the rivals, but establishing a good name. German roadsters have been so popular because of Porsche, Mercedes-Benz and BMW badges slapped on them. It would take sometime before Honda would be able to reach the status of their competitors. However, a quick glance at the car and the specs sheet would probably change the way of thinking. This car can only be successful if marketed right and sold right.
Now, if we could just have this car in the Philippines too…

By Tamago | Photos courtesy of Honda Co (Japan) Ltd.