Thursday, August 30, 2007

2008 Honda S2000 CR

2008 Honda S2000 CR

With the exception of the 1996-2001 Acura Integra Type R, Honda has kept its highest-performing variants out of the hands of U.S. enthusiasts-until now. But make no mistake, we're not getting a new Type R; Honda is giving us its vision of the ultimate daily-driver/weekend race car: the 2008 S2000 CR (Club Racer).

To create a street car that provides properly balanced track performance and excellent high-speed stability, Honda starts with a regular S2000. The stock softtop, spare tire, and tools are all removed, as are the hood and cabin insulation. Radio and air conditioning are deleted as well, though they can be put back in as an option. For rainy days, the CR comes with the Honda Optional Equipment 48-pound nonstructural aluminum hardtop. Without the hardtop, air-conditioner, or radio, the S2000 weighs 99 pounds less than a regular S2000.

Removal of the softtop allows for installation of a rear strut-tower reinforcement that increases lateral chassis stiffness by roughly 11 percent. Steering-rack mounts are also reinforced and the steering ratio quickened to 13:8:1 (versus 14.9:1 for the standard S2000). To take advantage of the added chassis rigidity, the suspension is tightened up significantly. Front-end roll has been minimized with proportionately higher spring and damping rates compared with the rear. Larger anti-roll bars round out the hardware tweaks. Further balancing the package are wider, stickier tires, lightweight 17-inch wheels, and lift reducing aerodynamic aids. Output from the 2.2-liter F22C remains 237 horsepower.

At street pace, the CR improvements are mildly noticeable: a bit of additional grip here, slightly quicker steering there, and a more communicative ride overall. On the track is where the CR really shines. While much of the credit goes to the stickier tires, the excellent neutral lift characteristics of the suspension are evident under full braking. Minor steering adjustments at speed are met with immediate response and feedback: The stock S2000 feels delayed, almost floaty in comparison.

Production of the 2008 S2000 CR will be limited to 1500 units, but those lucky enough to get one will join an exclusive club: The CR is available only in the U.S.

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