Honda’s Mugen Open Top Sport Concept Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Show

Honda, maker of quality Toyota parts like like Honda tie rods has unveiled its S2000 at the recently concluded 2007 Tokyo Auto Show (January 12-14). The Honda S2000 was modified by Mugen to create the Open-Top Pure Sport Concept. The car looks as if it was designed for motorsport fans. The S2000 has an interior fitted with black/red Mugen bucket seats while for its body a unique set was placed to give the car a sportier look but in the process maintained the car’s famous smooth lines. The use of impressive exhausts at the back is another proof of the potential of this car; unfortunately no HP or torque figures are available for the S2000 though.

S2000 a Classic Roadster

Before it was modified by Mugen, the Honda S2000 was considered to be a classic roadster-style sports car and a performance icon for the Honda brand. The S2000 combines uncompromising racetrack performance with practicality. Honda has built the S2000 basing on that premise.

Further improvements were made for the S2000 including the addition of electronic DBW or Drive-by-Wire Throttle System™, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®), maintenance minder system, standard headrest speakers, an outside temperature gauge, revised seat and console designs, a unique new alloy wheel design plus the addition of Laguna Blue Pearl as an exterior color.

According to John Mendel Senior Vice President of American Honda Motor Co., Inc., “"Never content to leave well-enough alone, we're committed to maintaining the S2000's performance and technological leadership in its segment. It's a car designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, and it represents the ultimate expression of the fun-to-drive characteristic found in all Honda vehicles."

The S2000 is powered by 2.2-liter, DOHC, VTEC™ (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) 4-cylinder engine that remains to be the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance technology revving 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 6,800 rpm. To complement the engine’s output is a compact, longitudinally mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and short throws.

Also new in S2000 is Honda’s Vehicle Stability Assist system which makes it more stable and easier to control especially during street driving or in inclement weather conditions. VSA is working together with the Drive-by-Wire System to continuously monitor the yaw rate, steering input, throttle input as well as the braking pressure in order to determine if the car is following the intended path set by the driver.

Standard features of the S2000 include:

• Power retractable convertible top
• 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels
• Leather tirmmed seats
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps
• Aluminum hardtop
• XMO Satellite Radio
• Power windows
• Power door locks
• Keyless entry
• Outside temperature gauge
• Maintenance minder system

James Russel grew up in Los Angeles and is 35 years old. He works as a marketing analyst for a supplier of automotive parts in the United States. On his spare time, he loves to spruce up his vehicle.