First shown as a concept car called the SSM at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995, the production version was launched on April 15, 1999, to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary.

Officially two variants exist: the initial launch model was given the chassis code AP1; though cosmetically similar, the facelifted version, known as the AP2 in North America and Japan, incorporated significant changes to the drivetrain and suspension.

The Honda S2000 was notable for its exceptional specific power output of about 92 kW (124 hp) per litre, or about two horsepower per cubic inch, the highest of any mass production, naturally aspirated engined car, until 2010.

Using a Civic CRX Del Sol-based mule, it was obvious the packaging was going to be tight, but the early prototype was tried against rival models at Suzuka, and it looked so right, we felt obliged to continue down the same development path.

"[10] The car was tested primarily on race tracks and mountain roads of Japan and Europe, reflecting well the purpose of the roadster: "As the project evolved, to make sure we were on the right track, we did a lot of real world testing - first in Hokkaido, and then all over Europe, taking in an average of 450 miles (720 km) a day at high speed.

We wanted a car that delivered just the right amount of tension for the driver, with direct and linear response, sharp handling and the necessary power and torque for fast progress and safe overtaking, but nothing too excessive.

The final fine-tuning was done on the track to ensure the handling was right without being that sharp that the car became unruly, whatever the weather, followed by more road testing, including a fair bit around the Hakone area.

[13] Notable features include independent double wishbone suspension, electrically assisted steering and integrated roll hoops.

[14][15] An electrically powered vinyl top with internal cloth lining and plastic rear window was standard, with an aluminum hardtop available as an optional extra (in 2001).

Honda initially offered the S2000 in Berlina Black, New Formula Red, Grand Prix White, and Silverstone Metallic exterior colours in the US domestic market.

The 2001 model was largely unchanged; Honda added a digital clock to the radio display and made the rear wind blocker standard.

For the 2002 model year, suspension settings were revised and the plastic rear window was replaced by a glass unit incorporating an electric defroster.

The spring rates and shock absorber damping were altered and the suspension geometry was modified to improve stability by reducing toe-in changes under cornering loads.

In addition, cosmetic changes were made to the exterior with new front and rear bumpers, revised headlight assemblies, new LED tail-lights, and oval-tipped exhaust pipes.

The 2006 model introduced a drive by wire throttle, an electronic stability control system, new wheels, and one new exterior color, Laguna Blue Pearl.

[21] In addition to the base model, Honda offered a more track-oriented version of the S2000, distinguished by reduced weight, fewer amenities, and an increase in performance.

[22] Changes for the CR included a lower ratio steering rack, revised exhaust system, black lug nuts, darker colored wheels, clear side markers, stiffer suspension and new Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tyres that were 10mm wider at the rear (255/40R-17 vice the base model's 245/40R-17).

A revised body kit, composed of a redesigned front lip, and a large spoiler, were wind-tunnel tested and claimed to reduce the overall coefficient of lift by 70–80%.

To reduce weight and lower the center of gravity, the spare tire was omitted and air conditioning and stereo were offered only as options.

Honda continued to offer both the standard and CR versions unchanged for the 2009 model year, but with flagging sales caused by the 2008 automotive industry crisis, the S2000 was cancelled mid-model-year.

Changes are similar to the U.S. market's CR edition, sharing the weight loss, a purpose built bodykit providing much higher downforce, bespoke wheels and interior.

Notable changes on both of the cars included Grand Prix White body colour, a removable hard top, graphite-colored alloy wheels with black wheel bolts, aluminium ball gear lever, black S2000 badging and red leather interior with red coloring for stitching on the gear lever gaiter.

[79][80] In time attack competition, an S2000 modified by Top Fuel set the lap record for rear-wheel drive cars at the Tsukuba Circuit in 2008, which it held for three years.

[85] In drifting, the S2000 scored several podiums in Formula D during the mid-2000s, including a win at an invitational event at Irwindale, which featured the top 16 drivers from the series' 2004 season.

[89] After several years of steady production, sales of the roadster began falling dramatically starting in 2006, and the trend accelerated during the 2008 automotive industry crisis.

[90] Production of the S2000 ceased in June 2009[26] and plans for a successor were scrapped in the aftermath of the automotive industry crisis;[91] Honda reaffirmed their stance on plans for a successor for the S2000 after patents and trademark filings for what would be the Honda Sports Vision Gran Turismo surfaced in 2015, following the launch of the aforementioned concept car specifically designed for the Gran Turismo series.