The AP2 Honda S2000 is no longer just a used sports car. It has crossed into full JDM icon status. Even though the newest AP2s are now almost two decades old, the platform is still incredibly capable by modern standards. Lightweight chassis, near perfect balance, and one of the most character-rich engines Honda ever built make the S2000 a special car to own, upgrade, and drive.
The F22C1 engine may not be rev-happy as high as the AP1’s F20 2-liter, but it delivers more torque, better street manners, and stronger mid-range. Combine that with massive aftermarket support and the AP2 remains one of the best driver-focused platforms you can build today.
If you are searching for the best AP2 S2000 mods, this is how to upgrade it without losing what makes the car special.
Performance Mods That Add Real Power
From the factory, the AP2 S2000 makes just over 230 horsepower at the crank. It feels fast because of gearing and weight, but modern performance standards leave room for improvement.
The most proven way to add serious power while keeping drivability intact is forced induction. For US-market S2000s, the Science of Speed supercharger system remains one of the most reputable and well-engineered options available. Using a centrifugal supercharger setup, this system delivers smooth, linear boost that matches the S2000’s high-revving nature.
On a healthy AP2 with proper supporting mods, a Science of Speed supercharger typically delivers a 35 to 40 percent increase in horsepower over stock. That puts the car comfortably into modern sports car territory while retaining reliability when tuned correctly.
Supporting upgrades are critical. A high-flow intake, upgraded fuel components, and a proper ECU calibration are mandatory to extract safe power. The result is an S2000 that still feels balanced and predictable, just significantly faster everywhere in the rev range.
FN Tuned Throttle Response Controller for AP2 S2000
The 2006 model year in the AP2 generation’s lifecycle marks the introduction of drive-by-wire electronic throttle system. And as with all DBW systems, it is laggy.
The FN Tuned Throttle Response Controller sharpens pedal input and eliminates that hesitation without altering engine tuning. It does not add power and does not interfere with ECU. It simply remaps the throttle and gives you instant and customizable pedal feedback.
On a stock AP2, the difference is felt instantly. On a supercharged S2000, it becomes even more valuable, as you have much more power to play with. Throttle modulation improves, rev-matching feels more natural, and the car responds exactly when you ask it to. It is a simple S2000 upgrade that enhances both daily driving and aggressive runs.
The best part is that you can wirelessly customize the pedal sensitivity with FN Tuned’s mobile app. You get 36 settings, ranging from smooth to razor-sharp, to dial in the perfect response.
Click HERE to order your FT22 unit for Honda S2000 AP2!
Suspension Mods That Preserve Balance
The S2000 chassis is incredibly sensitive to suspension changes. Done right, it becomes laser-sharp. Done wrong, it can feel nervous and unpredictable.
Coilovers designed specifically for the S2000 are the foundation of a proper setup. High-quality kits improve body control while maintaining compliance over rough pavement. Ride height should remain reasonable to preserve suspension geometry and steering feel.
Adjustable alignment components allow proper camber and toe settings, which are essential once the car is lowered. Combined with stiffer bushings in key areas, the S2000 becomes more planted without losing its signature precision.
Braking Upgrades That Match the Power
Once a supercharger is added, braking becomes a priority. The factory AP2 brakes are adequate for stock power, but forced induction pushes the limits quickly.
Big brake kits with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers provide the stopping power and heat capacity needed for a higher horsepower S2000. Improved pad compounds and stainless brake lines further enhance pedal feel and consistency.
With increased straight-line speed, confidence under braking becomes just as important as acceleration. A proper brake upgrade ensures the car stays balanced and predictable when driven hard.
Wheels and Tires That Let the Car Work
The S2000 responds dramatically to the right wheel and tire setup. Getting to the iconic JDM look is quite easy with these cars if you opt for the classic JDM rims. Plus, lightweight wheels reduce unsprung mass and improve steering response. Tire selection, on the other hand, has an even bigger impact on handling and steering feel.
High-performance summer tires unlock the grip the chassis was designed for. Wider tires improve traction without overwhelming the car’s balance when matched correctly to suspension and alignment.
This is one of the most important S2000 upgrades for both stock and boosted builds. Without proper tires, every other mod is limited.
FAQ About AP2 Honda S2000 Mods
Is the AP2 S2000 still worth modifying today?
Yes. The AP2 S2000 remains one of the most rewarding driver-focused platforms available. With modern upgrades, it performs at a level that still feels competitive and engaging.
What is the best way to add power to an AP2 S2000?
A properly engineered supercharger or turbocharger system is the most effective way to add big power while maintaining drivability. Turbochargers ultimately yield the most horsepower, but reliability quickly becomes a concern. Supercharger systems still provide significant power gains, but they are more conservative compared to turbocharging. Supercharging delivers consistent gains across the rev range without compromising balance.
Do suspension mods ruin the S2000’s balance?
Not if done correctly. High-quality coilovers, proper alignment, and reasonable ride height improve precision without sacrificing the car’s natural balance.
Is a throttle response controller worth it on the S2000?
Yes. When the AP1 had a cable throttle, the throttle response was instant, and there were no issues. But as with the 2006 and on AP2 generation, the newly introduced electronic throttle system brought the throttle lag issue to the table.