Honda S2000 AP1 vs Mazda Miata ND2 - Head to Head Review!

[@umamidaddy7243]

I daily an ap1 in the mountains in the summer. I put 5000 miles a year and every day I pull into the garage saying this doesn't get old..... just like your s2000 content. Thanks for the review

[@tmo2798]

Must be nice.... S2000s are rising in price. For the last 5 years. Young classics, those cars...

[@trevortrent319]

dunno if anyone cares but if you are stoned like me during the covid times you can watch pretty much all the new movies on Instaflixxer. I've been watching with my gf lately xD

[@sauljustice9668]

@Trevor Trent yup, been using Instaflixxer for since november myself =)

[@johntechwriter]

Flogging the crap out of these cars on empty back roads is far less relevant than operating them at sane speeds in the real world. Sports cars are about driving engagement. The steering, braking, shifting, seat-of-the-pants feel - are experienced in all the driving you do, not just the fast stuff. Choosing one of these over the other isn’t a matter of adding up the stats - it’s a purely emotional decision. And between these two cars, there is no wrong answer.

[@DatNinjaGuyD]

MIATA IS ALWAYS THE ANSWER :D

[@jacobhiller6731]

I owned a Spa Yellow AP1 for 5 years. I've never had more fun in a car in my life. There will never be another.

[@Z31Turbo]

As someone who just went through this decision, I ended up with an ND2 soft top club. The s2k is a much better looking car imo, but the driving experience and features of the Miata made it a slightly better choice.

[@naisbest3020]

S2000 looks so plain and characterless compared to the Nd imo.

[@byhsu6140]

I actually think the ND2 looks better than the S2k

[@philipreeves5465]

The ND front and side profiles look good, but the rear? Mmmm. Looks weak.

[@justchillin619]

Ive always wanted an S2000....but I bought an ND2

[@jmfs2k273]

Congrats really nice car ! I'm sure you won't be sorry.

[@justchillin619]

@@jmfs2k273 ive never driven an s2000 but yes this ND2 Miata is Amazing

[@akaims3]

justchillin90 good choice!

[@OKMX5]

Same, S2000s are so scarce and overpriced here in Europe.

[@brucelee7283]

@@OKMX5 or u can get a g35 for 8000 dollars and smoke both cars. losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/cto/d/santa-monica-2007-infiniti-g35s-g35/7143847639.html

[@JupiterxBlues]

The Trampoline comparison: A friend of mine compared the fun factor of the s2000 and miata ND2 to playing on two trampolines. He said both are lots of fun because they make you jump higher than you can on your mattress(a heavy but comfortable car). When asked about the higher RPM of the s2000, despite being slower than the ND2, he said its like going 7.5 feet in the air on a trampoline vs going 8 feet(AP2 s2k). Both are going to feel very high off the ground and fun but at the end of the day, the ND2 is a much nicer trampoline. 😂

[@BigDaddyAddyMS]

Just bought a 2020 ND2 RF. Absolutely love it.

[@asianyangster916]

Been waiting for this comparison. This help with a lot of questions.

[@coldvaper]

if i was going to get a ND2 it would be the club/soft top, I believe its the lightest of the bunch.

[@johntechwriter]

That’s what I bought - the 2019 base model Sport with soft top and manual. It makes the same power as the Club and IMO the extras ppl usually get with the Club - Brembos, Bilsteins, BBS wheels and Recaros are mostly bling. With the ten grand I save over a loaded Club I could uniquely personalize my Sport. And yet after seven months I don’t feel the need to change it. It’s got the right combination of drivability and performance that works for me.

[@MrOdeezie585]

Just bought one

[@ShuffleToExpresss]

@@johntechwriter Your Sport model is missing an LSD though, which is important. The brembos/BBS are a package, they do not come with the Club by default

[@VirtualGuth]

Good points made for both cars. I'm glad to see Mazda raising the redline and sticking with the naturally aspirated engine. I still love owning a S2000, but am glad that it is my weekend car. I'm not exactly sure that I would want to daily a Miata either for that matter. But I'm certainly glad that Mazda is still making these cars as things like manual gearboxes and convertible tops are seemingly going the way of carburetors. For a more direct comparison you should have either dropped the top in the S2000, or left the top up on the Miata. By the way, the top hat was a nice addition to the video. Way to stand out from the rest of the crowd!

[@sbfd3s]

I just went through this earlier this year and I chose the AP2. I have had 12 cars including an AP1, NA1, FD3S, NA, and NC but the S2000 is the car that spoke to me the most when driving. I knew if I bought an ND whenever I saw an S2000 on the road I would want it but if I got an S2000 I wouldn't lust after an ND. Plus, I can always pick up an ND later when their value tanks like every other Miata. On another note my AP2 doesn't have any rattles.

[@seant6346]

Same here. I have an AP2 and have no rattles whatsoever. I do have rubber orings on the rooftop strikers though and recommend doing it to all.

[@Ryomichi]

S2k may keep their value because of its collectibility. But since right now people are comparing S2k and ND2, I would guess both price would go down at the same rate because of competition.

[@Manvswild11]

@@Ryomichithis comment didn’t age well 😂

[@Ryomichi]

@@Manvswild11 Haha it didn't! In fact the average price has risen by $10k since 3 years ago.

[@johndatu774]

@@Manvswild11comment didn’t age well but the price definitely did, if he ever resells it, it was a very good choice choosing the s2k 😅

[@mazdaratti89]

A few years back you had to have a S2000 to compete in Solo 2 STR class to win. Now the MX-5 Miata ND1 is king, even before the ND2 came out, which is even better. Food for thought. Also if out right performance isn't your thing the ND2 is a better daily driver delivering more usable torque and way better gas mileage for similar performance to the S2000.

[@izzoArtistry]

Props to the ND2. But s2k all day.

[@ShutterKnack]

Spoken like a true Honda fanboy 😂

[@SilverScarletSpider]

20 years later and the AP1 Honda S2000 is still king. 2 whole decades of technology and innovation, yet the Honda’s engine and reliability still couldn’t be beat.

[@93mlo]

No shit , that car was made before emissions standards got worse and force companies to make less polluting cars. If emissions standards were the same today as when the s2k was made Mazda could easily do a 9k rpm engine too and would be lighter. The mx5 is still in production so why isn't the s2k still around if better?

[@FreestylerAlbert]

I sold my 06 S2000 (EU so F20C) for an ND2 owner. :) That tells a lot.

[@s2kay750]

Best fun affordable car mx5ND I think the answer to your question is in your account name - affordable. The s2000 was at a higher price point. Arguably that extra price afforded a much better engine.

[@MrEvan1932]

@@93mlo lmao nice name miata fanboy

[@user-nifinei34jd9]

Best fun affordable car mx5ND Why didnt mx5 from same year have 9000rpm like s2000?

[@ChengHooSew]

I want a 9000RPM Mazda 3.

[@donniehowattzer2759]

Everyone has a dream. :)

[@frankcavalier1812]

Right? everyone wants a mazdaspeed 3 that can go to 9k idk what these guys smokin

[@ShutterKnack]

​@@frankcavalier1812it's easily done with shorter strokes but means you'll lose low to midrange torque which Honda did. Its not that big of a feat really. It's just like designing an engine that's almost like a motorcycle engine but bigger.

[@machineslave3]

I sold my S2000 because it was too annoying to live with as a DD, plus the dreaded shifter popping out every so often made it unsettling to drive. Picked up a 2016 Miata and I've been a Mazda fan ever since. Both great cars, but the Miata is a better daily.

[@rocketboi336]

I agree!

[@gregblack8550]

Thank you. I can’t even bring this up when you try to have honest car talk. Goodbye s2000 , so sick of goof balls acting like there will never be anything as good. There will be and there has been. Oops did I say has been.

[@EjinRenos]

MX5 has been better in every way except the horsepower. It's why the s2k doesn't exist anymore but the Mazda still does.

[@naisbest3020]

Chris Priestley sales will show you are correct. There weren’t enough fanboys to buy the s2000 on a regular basis. That’s why it died.

[@lorddragoono]

I own a ap1 s2k turbocharged. Definitely not a daily driver. Thats why I own a gti. But God damn is the s2k fun

[@onefastcyclist]

The high water mark of VTEC is still hard to beat all these years later!

[@rocketboi336]

Thanks for featuring my car on your channel, Zygrene! KZbin commenters, if you have any questions about my car, feel free to ask below!

[@HydroCronus]

Thoughts on the car thus far? Reliability, and the personal things you like and don't like about the car. Thanks in advance

[@rocketboi336]

@@HydroCronus I've had the car for a little over 2 years and for daily driving, the car has been really reliable. Since this video, I've done quite a few mods, maybe @Zygrene can do another review when he has time! Things I like: -Car feels special to drive, whether cruising through town or taking it down my favorite back road. -Driver position is really good. You also have very good forward visibility -The handles very well. It amazes me how good it is Things I don't like: -Since I still have the soft top, there's still a lot of wind noise. The engine, even in stock form is loud. great for the backroads, not as great for driving on the highway every day. Also my car rattles a lot, but could just be my car in particular. -the nose of the car sits pretty low and makes it more susceptible to rock chips. Since this review, I've gotten a clear bra to ensure the front of the car is protected -the car is uncomfortable for drives longer than 2.5 hours for me. Overall, I'm very pleased with the car as a weekend canyon carver/HPDE vehicle, but I'm glad I don't daily drive the car. It's definitely doable, but just not for me.

[@ClassicRed2159]

They both get achieve the same thing in different ways. I feel an RX8 is a better comparison to an s2k due to its near 9k feature, rigid chassis design yet has creature comforts.

[@mdcohen]

It’s the long wheel base, four seat, hardtop S2000

[@brucelee7283]

350z smokes both in straight line and canyons

[@AdonisGaming93]

Rx8 is not a roadster though that ight there is a bigger difference than you might think.

[@johnsuttles7577]

I’m not sure if your buddy with the nd miata plans to modify the suspension but i’d really enjoy seeing your review on an nd with a good suspension setup as I am considering one of these in a couple years. Good video as always, cheers!

[@doctorferdinand1003]

I don't even need to see the video to know that VTEC is king.

[@StirlingMossDrives]

My wrx will smoke both! 😂😂

[@doctorferdinand1003]

@@StirlingMossDrives It'll blow blue and white smoke all over them.

[@StirlingMossDrives]

Doctor Ferdinand Still smoke your pos shit Honda with blown head gasket!

[@TheBb6prelude]

Stirling Moss wrxs hold no records other than rally 😂😂😂 fucking troll

[@TheBb6prelude]

Stirling Moss haha you’re calling Honda a pos shit and you have a wrx piece of shit 😂😂😂😂 fucking troll. Wrx isn’t no rich mans car🤣

[@Sumpula]

The squeaks and rattles propably come from that aftermarket hardtop. I have only the soft top on mine with about 90k miles on it and there is no rattles at all driving around. And there is no weather strip or additional foam anywhere.

[@riityee]

Thatnortherns2k ap1?

[@Sumpula]

@@riityee Yes Ap1.

[@pts116]

I've owned two ap1's and never had squeaks and rattles like what is heard in this video. One with 130k the other with 145k, a couple rattles here and there but nothing like what is in displayed here. Very poor misinformation to say all S2000's are going to have squeaks and rattles, they don't.

[@RaffleReefer10]

nd would be my choice after they’ve depreciated, they’d be a better value and are a more capable chassis since they’re so much newer and lighter.

[@pantloaded]

The 2019 clubs should be cheap around winter this year

[@paris8132]

ND2 is the choice if you just wanna take it and daily drive it as is. S2K if you wanna get into mods and if lap times are important to you. That said, I have a 30th anniversary ND with the 220 BBR kit installed (plus tires, coilovers, after market anti-sway bar) and I am miles away from my friends' supercharged S2K (with 450 hp at the wheel!!!) in terms of lap times. Then again, he has spent a fortune on his car and many many many hours of work. And ofc his car is not reliable enough to be a daily driver like mine.

[@Joe-eg7ml]

As a previous owner of an AP2 I loved the car but hated the gear pop outs which is why I would never pick another s2k. Thank God there is a ND CS

[@rocketboi336]

Ive heard a few ND1 owners having issues with their transmissions. Hopefully it hasnt carried over with the ND2.

[@Joe-eg7ml]

@@rocketboi336 after 2016 it was resolved. And there is a recall I believe on this issue.

[@rocketboi336]

@@Joe-eg7ml good to know!

[@damuhongmaldita]

Had that 2nd gear pop out issue on my AP2 which Honda fixed thru the TSB. Will never trade for this Miata. Is it me or the rear is just fugly? There's no point for a test drive after seeing it. New vs 20-yr old car says it all.

[@Joe-eg7ml]

@@damuhongmaldita I have moved on from AP2 to S2 Lotus Exige Rev400. I like the nd because it has a broader powerband and fun all the time.

[@jinnnguyen7077]

You have a rattle noise coming from your Hardtop (I assume you knew). Cut some rubber hoses (if you have 1 laying around), wrap rubber hose around Latch 'hook' portion. Rubber hose will be sandwich between Latch & Striker; it'll fill in gaps & dampen contact between Latch & Striker .

[@nelsonlu5878]

"this car is only 69 thousand miles", and the video shows the gauge cluster bolt covers being removed before lol

[@azura13liss]

Never test drove a S2000, wanted one, but could never find a good clean one. I did not know the S2000 rattles so much, that would annoy the heck out of me. Anyway, I settled for a ND1 back in 2017 and never looked back. Did an E85 Tune, stock everything else, and it's now faster than the newer stock ND2. The ND1 after the OFT flash tune (btw best $500 spent on car mods) brings the redline higher to 7600 rpm rev limit (the ND2 only has a 7300 rev limit even after the tune?). It's also 500 lbs lighter than the S2000, so I think the Miata is an all around better car and I think my thoughts wouldn't change even if I had a S2000. Still wish the Miata has a very pronouced VTEC though lol. Thanks for the awesome video.

[@tomdoe1234]

I just paid 28K for a new club soft top. Thing is the most fun I have ever had driving

[@mickeyhartsell6096]

I love the look of the AP1 Honda S2000, race car reflexes, 9000 RPM's, that car will get u laid. Much better looking than the RF and most other car's under 100K.

[@filthyvibes4768]

Mickey Hartsell imagine needing a car to get you laid. Go to the gym my guy

[@mickeyhartsell6096]

@@filthyvibes4768 it's a lot easier with the S2000 budd, I went and bought a 2002..loving it !!

[@FF4EVA]

A 20 year old Honda is known, appreciated and popular only among car enthusiasts / guys. But hey, we don't judge.

[@tennisthehilife]

Awesome job on the video!

[@Brockthedog315]

I thought this was one of the best review Comparisons I’ve seen. Both cars have their pros and cons. The fanboy stuff was thrown out which made this refreshing. Best situation. Have both! Lol.

[@BobC59]

OK! Sold my NB Miata to father in-law about 3 years ago and promised to biuy it back at price he paid me if he ever wanted; And now he does. Problem (if you could call it that) is I now have a pristine, 20k mile S2000 that I am NOT ready to sell. I must buy the NB back, as I have always missed it, but I can't sell the Ap1 I've only had a 1.5 years. Looks like I'll have best of both worlds for a while, tho in a more basic NB Miata. Pros for that car: More predictable tail-out characteristics but some body roll vs. what ppl call "snap oversteer" in the Honda with little to no body roll. What I loved about the Miata, I suppose because of the price and reliability, is the ability to drive it all I want and as hard as I want. The Honda feels like it needs babying due to it low miles and like-new condition, a restriction I admit is on me and in my pown mind (am I wrong?). I love it and would rather drive it with reckless abandon, but with its value being triple that of the Miata... well, the Miata give a sense of freedom - true joy of driving a car how you want to without fear of trashing it. Not a lot invested in it and not a lot to fix it if something should go wrong. I just beuilt a new 3 car garage, and withe the NB will not have space unless I put my daily out in the winter weather. WHAT TO DO !????

[@moneyshift8190]

Great vid. I would probably take the ND and drive it for a while then eventually do a flying miata LS swap. Speaking of LS motors would be cool to see the s2k vs c5 z06 track review!

[@SilverScarletSpider]

The issue is that you basically need to put in an LS swap just to redeem the damn thing. And it’s not a cheap new car at all. You might as well just buy a cheap C5 corvette coupe for ~10k, rip the roof off, and tape a black tarp into it.

[@Zygrene]

C5Z is a car I've had my eye on for a while. Seems like a huge performance bargain for about $15k.

[@EjinRenos]

Ls swapping pretty much ruins the feel and ability of an Mx5. It goes from a more than capable track / curvy road dominator to a tire roaster that still won't outdo a boxster in terms of speed. A better swap will still be a rotary, 3 or 4 chamber. Both have more power than an ls in natural aspiration and have great power potential with much lighter weight at the cost of slightly less reliability.

[@indeathsembrace666]

Very well spoken reviewer. Detailed and comprehensive analysis overviewing the feel of suspension, stiffness, roll, balance, weight, NVH, power. I'd like to know how the brakes and chassis feel by comparison. Also was great to hear the conversation between the reviewer and S2000 owner. Good chemistry and respect. Subscribed and looking forward to more content! Thanks!

[@Zygrene]

ND brakes have a lot more initial bite, perhaps due to 500 lb weight difference. Chassis also feels stiffer, with more immediate turn in and fewer squeaks and rattles. Thanks for watching!

[@indeathsembrace666]

@@Zygrene Great point. The S2000 (I have a MY00 AP1) is relatively light, and light by today's standards, but the ND with 350 pounds fewer must be so much more nimble as you said. I'm going to test drive one asap. Thanks for the reply. I'll make sure I get notifications for all future videos. Cheers, and keep it up!

[@patrickandrade4911]

The ap2 v1 wheels are larger in diameter than the stock ap1 (17" vs 16"). That affects the gear ratios to make them feel longer. I have an ap1 with same wheel set up..you need 4.7fd rear diff to remedy the problem.

[@peejayem4700]

This is not correct. The diameter of the AP2v1 17” wheels with tires (or any AP2 wheel for that matter), is actually smaller than the AP1 at the rear, on stock tire sizes. The respective tire profiles more than make up for the difference in 16” vs 17” wheels. The diameter variance is within a few hundredths of an inch so it’s a straight ‘plug n play’ swap.

[@patrickandrade4911]

@@peejayem4700 I stand corrected. Thanks for the clarification. I looked it up and it turns out you're correct. The difference in size is negligible. I will say the car does feel more lethargic when I run my ap2v1, could be all in my head. I have reps maybe they a heavier than the 16"s.

[@peejayem4700]

Patrick Andrade I’ve got them on my AP1 as well, I agree they do feel different - an improvement in handling/looks too!

[@augustusho7281]

I had an AP1 S2000 back in 2001 and I miss it very much. I love the response, zero understeer (I'm totally fine with the oversteering nature of the AP1, I just gave it some opposite lock and that's it), minimal body roll and the better-than-sex gearbox. There just isn't anything like it nowadays, so I'm looking at the Miata ND2. But from the many video I've seen there are a lot of body roll that is scary. It's good the ND has some torque tho. In the S2000, I'm always chasing down other cars because they can easily get in front with more torque.

[@AlexanderYoung-dz5su]

I see the post is 3 years old, curious where your ND2 journey went... don't be scared of the body roll in the ND2, it's meant to be a beginners car and a pro's car all in the same. That body roll helps beginners to the track and Auto-X learn their cars limits. Get stiffer sway bars and lower the ride height just a tad and that body roll is a thing of the past!

[@Swarm509]

@@AlexanderYoung-dz5su Agreed, Mazda knew that the majority of people buying the ND2 would never track it and at most just driving it a bit aggressively on streets (but still mostly legal) so a softer suspension would be best. In my research it isn't hard to stiffen up the car if you want to track it and get more out of it. If you want a modern car the ND2 is the best thing you will get in its category without going into extreme costs. Power/Torque will always be a problem with the S2000/ND2, you really are a momentum car focusing on handling and keeping that average speed up.

[@JupiterxBlues]

Mazda knows that all miatas are going to be modded and/or tracked at some point in the car's life. They are highly aware of the huge aftermarket for them and the several race cars and classes that miatas compete in. That said, the majority of miatas have a lot of body roll from the factory. That feels great for a daily driver and for someone who has the money to buy a brand new miata... but leaves a lot of performance on the table. An S2000 is the closest comparable vehicle with stiffer suspension from the factory but is also a much heavier car. But, if both cars had the same comparable suspension and tires. The stock engine ND2 would outpace a stock engine s2000 on any short course or autocross event. But the s2k would outpace the ND2 on a track with longer straits because at the end of the day, you need power to push through aerodynamic drag forces.

[@RacerX-124]

Very good comparison from an enthusiast perspective.

[@gabrielflores1149]

Did you test the Abarth 124? Preferably with an exhaust and a tune.

[@Zygrene]

I've never driven a 124, so if anyone has one... let me know!

[@gtmitchell814]

Great comparison, thanks. Now imagine driving the sport version that is 2340 lbs and the same engine with the ND2.

[@2006gtobob]

Miata Is Always The Answer.

[@rocksull2936]

Robert D. You crazy

[@carlossuriel4695]

That first gear pull took for ever bro ..??? Did you floor it??

[@seanwalsh999]

If you get a chanse drive a MGB with some performance mods, lowered suspension, maybe an aluminum head, weber carburetor, header, and most definitely an overdrive unit. I drove a Miata and I felt that there was very little difference between the two cars except for the rattles that the MGB had, but then again it was a forty year old car. The overdrive unit lets you down and up shift in 3 and 4th. without using the clutch, you just flick a switch. It is the original PDK experience 40 years ahead of PDK shifting. As much fun as that car is, I was always looking for the next best driving experience, so I tried a year 2000 Porsche Boxster. I knew within the first 2 minutes that it would be coming home with me. Its small like a Miata but its got a 6 cylinder, gobs of power and tork, but what is unique about the porsche driving experience is the steering. Because there is no weight in the front, the steering is super responsive, like a go carts. Really enjoyed this episode guys, keep it up, nothing like driving a slow car fast and on a budget. Like Jay Leno says all, the fun is between 40 and eight miles an hour any ways. Unless you are on a track.

[@chunhaylee]

I had a '67 MGB, and 3 Miatas. There is no comparison between the two. The live-axled MGB's suspension is way inferior to the Miata's suspension. And the brakes on the MGB are totally inadequate.

[@wholelottamiata6976]

If you look at the dyno charts between these two cars the ND2 actually makes more power throughout it’s entire rpm range than the s2000. That makes it a lot more useable on the road and explains the faster 0-60. The S2000 makes more peak power but we see here that power curve matters more than peak power.

[@ShutterKnack]

Which also explains why the ND2 is 1.5 seconds faster on a quarter mile than the AP1 (14.4 s vs 15.9). HP is nothing without midrange torque.

[@Manvswild11]

@@ShutterKnackwhen it’s in vtec it stays there, still 3k usable from 6-9k when you’re thrashing it, I’ll take the character and crazy top end power of the S2000 any day over the miatas Mazda 3 engine 😂

[@ShutterKnack]

@@Manvswild11 it's fine. I'll take the K20 over the Mazda engine as well but I'll probably take the Mazda body over the S2000. Check underneath both cars so you know what I mean.

[@cdnstache]

AP2 vs. ND2 video...this needs to be made! 🤓🙏

[@Cameron-yz1ee]

Hey Fenton, how was that Bride seat in the S2K? Good upgrade over the stock seat? For daily driving.

[@Zygrene]

It's much more supportive but slightly trickier to get in and out of. Worth it if you do any kind of performance driving I'd say.

[@rocketboi336]

From my experience with the bride, Id try to get my hands on a Recaro, because the cushioning is more plush. With that said, the Bride seat is still good, just not too supportive for long drives

[@TrackMonkey327]

I really love the S2000s but some parts, including decent used engines, are getting hard to find these days.

[@Erkkremlinklum]

I’d like to purchase an ND2 but heard that have transmission issues, have any owners out there had this issue

[@hankoscarprice]

Best thing about Miatas. People don't think you are a DB. Unlike normal noncar people.

[@justchillin619]

Why didn't you guys do a race? Smh

[@valentinorossi7771]

I drove S2000 which belonged to a friend 7 years ago and about 5 weeks after that tested my other friend's Polo GTI with twin charge. What a difference! The polo pulled instantaneously at low RPM while the S2000 needed +/- 5700 rpm to extract max power. On the highway the short gearing of the S2000 was tiring as it needed > 4000 rpm to sustain highway speed. In short yes it was eciting to see the engine scream to 9000 rpm but for day to day driving in heavy traffic I prefer a car with low to mid end grunt.

[@lvbuckeye]

Some of the most fun I've ever had in a car was my 90 CRX Si with a JDM B16 swap. All the bolt ons. Chipped PW0 ECU. Apexi air fuel controller let me mess around with the tune. Rev limit was raised to 9k. VTEC engagement was lowered to ~4700 or so. Damn I miss that car. She was stolen and never recovered. JHMED9365LS012604 IF YOU SEE THAT VIN, THAT'S MY CAR! I still have it memorized after 13 years. 😭😭😭

[@MrLuisgsxr]

Hey I do own a 2019 RF CLUB WITH Brembo brakes and seats package,Love it, where can I find those tiny spoilers or wings on the top of your RF?HOW ARE THOSE CALLED IN ENGLISH OR any PART NUMBER, THANKS!!!! any links !!!

[@chheangduong6109]

Here you go lol the exact ones: Creatiee 2Pcs Universal Car Mini Spoiler Wing, Auto Car Tail Wing | Mini Auto Carbon Fiber Texture Decoration | Without Perforation Tail Decoration, 6.7 Inch (Black) www.amazon.com/dp/B07DQHQXLS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Tm0qDbYPHTCS7

[@chheangduong6109]

Plan is to have that on there until I'm ready to drop $$$ and drill holes for a real wing lol which won't be for a long while

[@Jimmy_Wei]

My dream is a 500HP 10,000RPM 20B Natural Aspirated FD3s.

[@DerpThisdevelopment]

Ive had a 2.5 nc miata and a ap1 s2000 and i love my ap1 more

[@BobC59]

This helps, as I have an AP1 and am buying back an NB Miata I sold to relative few years back. At least now I can compare them all the time - maybe do a video on my findings. Meanwhile, the Miata will help keep miles off my little diamond of a Honda with only 20K and close to showroom condition But do I keep both?

[@megagurka]

Give the soft top ND2 club a try. It's a better car than NC in every way.

[@tmo2798]

The NC is the worst Miata to be released.

[@DerpThisdevelopment]

@@tmo2798 I've driven all of them stock. I liked my nc with the 2.5 swap the best...

[@tmo2798]

@@DerpThisdevelopment 2.5 swap... might be good. . . NC ... CHASSIS.... the worst Miata. I'd pay $3 000 for one if it was in good condition, more for EVERY OTHER MIATA. Thanks.

[@zoomjoo]

So, which car is more fun?

[@BTC_Cassidy]

Where are these roads located?

[@aaronp9835]

Ap2 all day. More displacement is always better. Less rpm, more torque and better drivability when modifying

[@elykus793]

I prefer the S2000 because I've driven it like a mother fucker ever since Gran Turismo 2, it's part of the FnF movies, Hot Version International, looks good and handles great, VTEC yo.

[@chancecannon5777]

You have the most beautiful AP1 man, keep it it’ll be worth something one day. Amazing machine🤘

[@rocketboi336]

Thanks for the kind words, Chance! Thats the plan for now until I can afford a well optioned out porsche! 😅

[@rocketboi336]

(Which is probably never)

[@CarsandBikes]

RFvs s2k with hardtop. Whats the delta? 500lbs?

[@Zygrene]

I think around 400 lb difference between RF and S2K with OEM hardtop

[@CarsandBikes]

@@Zygrene I had a 2013 club PRHT for a little under 2 years and just miss that car. Curious how a 2.5 swap would fare

[@EjinRenos]

@@CarsandBikes They do them and they're doing better than the Ls swaps. For all obvious reasons.

[@syedlink27]

What road are you driving? I’ve wanted to drive some fun roads in the Bay Area in my AP2.. Tnx Fenton

[@Zygrene]

Felter Rd in San Jose

[@Kstxrd]

I opted for a very low mileage 2019 Abarth 124 Spider. A few bolt ons and a Phase Two tune on its 1.4-liter turbo engine and it is pushing 225 crank horsepower and 235 ft. lbs. of torque. Red with the Heritage Stripe, 6-speed manual, Recaro seats, Visibility Pkg., Bose/Nav, Record Monza exhaust.

[@kingjinendra6521]

Big Mazda Fan , now thats what i wanna hear!

[@papatorr3669]

You said you could keep it at 4K RPM and not "have" to shift, which is a valid point. But more importantly: you can be in the power band from 4K RPM all the way to red line. So you're in the power more often coming out of the corners than in the S2K. You all said as much in your own way, but I stress it for the S2K fan boys.

[@hasanz5259]

20 y.o. S2000 > ND2 Turns more heads, sounds much better.

[@kblairp]

What adjustments did you do for ap2 wheels to fit ?

[@cpenrose64]

Very interesting comparison. I just sold my 2007 Z4M for an ND2. A 2007 had rattles and needed constant care and feeding. Would love to see a comparison on Z4M vs ND2. 😉

[@of_lion22]

Though I'm sure no one is asking for it...I'd love to see a side by side comparison of the S2000 and an RX8 (Series 2) on a nice day like this. Since it was a bit wet when you drove his RX8. But, then...he sold it to get an S2000. So, maybe that's the answer to that.

[@onethirdmayo8556]

I allow no car I own being automatic, yet I`m lazy and don`t want to downshift when speeding up. Therefore I prefer engines with more low end torque.

[@dielaughing73]

They call that a 'lazy engine'. Suits me because I'm a lazy driver.

[@danialroxx]

Id take the s2000

[@Thesaviorsway]

Drive the s2000 from full to E. Drive the nd2 from full to E. Which one gave you the most smiles and miles per gallon?

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

I own an 08 S2K CR, but I feel they both more than deliver on SPG. Cheers.

[@johnnyperez3051]

We can never have enough S2k videos. Where are you located? I want you to review my bone stock HR 350z if interested.

[@Zygrene]

SF bay area. If you're close by, shoot me an email at [e-mail]

[@mickeyhartsell6096]

I love the New Miata but just not as much as that Screaming S2000 ! As for looks, the Honda is just too damn sexy looking. I raced an S2000 in my 02 WRX on the interstate in Charlotte NC and lost and kinda fell in love with that Honda ever since, but people want to much money for them here in NC.

[@pantloaded]

Soft top club with ohlins and slicks and an oil cooler is all ya need.

[@mariom9694]

About time!!

[@gav240z]

I like both cars. But S2000 is now 20 years old. For sake of having a new car vs used. I'd get the ND. But in 20 years time I'd get the S2000.

[@FF4EVA]

Considering that most people don't engage VTEC every traffic light and most roads are not empty back roads without traffic , the ND2 is better in 99% or more real life driving scenarios.

[@jpizel1070]

That S2k sounds like is falling apart with all that rattle.

[@fhowland]

ND2 is superior. Own an S so I’m not biased lol.

[@jwalz_5737]

anyone else feel blue balled after the 4-6 pull at 5:35 ?

[@Joe-eg7ml]

Do something with the 4c spyder vs s2 exige S

[@realfastkx]

Let's make a fair comparison let's see this s2000 against a 2002 miata!

[@syedlink27]

AP2 vs ND2 please...? Come on Fenton! Jk

[@jevgenijivanov6824]

Thank you for review! I love this 2 cars and I hope one day I will buy one)) But I don't understand why Honda many-many years don't make cool cars (S2000 included). I thing that the best time for next generation S2000 was 2016-2018. For what the Honda marketing mens and CEOs take a money? Maybe they are working for BMW and Porsche?...

[@brucelee7283]

get a 350z for half the price and you can not only smoke s2ks but also mustang 5.0s, bmws, porsches, etc

[@milton_millyrok]

What happened to his rx8 r3

[@rocketboi336]

Gone, but not forgotten!

[@sublimegabe]

I’ve got a k24 crv and even in that car the engine shines. It’s not fast but smooth and has a great intake sound with a drop in k and n. It really made me a fan of Honda engines and design. I wish my bp Miata had a k20. Bit the swap is just too costly 😔

[@papatorr3669]

Would have been much better to have a camera on the tach shown in the corner when you drove on that twisty road! You weren't in the power band 95% of the time in the S2K!

[@SkunksterPlaysPoorly]

The AP2 actually isn’t better on the track. The gearing doesn’t allow you to stay in VTEC like you can in the AP1.

[@Kylo_Ren_2033]

S2000 power + ND2 torque = perfect

[@peejayem4700]

Kylo Ren the s2000 has more torque

[@ShutterKnack]

​@@peejayem4700I think he meant the torque curve. S2000 has only high end torque because of the short stroke (like motorcycles).

[@peejayem4700]

@@ShutterKnack The F20c makes 80% of it’s torque just above 2,000rpm. Put the two torque curves next to each other and the S2000 is flatter than the ND2.

[@wrxtim09]

Why is it that this video and so many other videos, always seem to say all s2000's are rattle cans? I hope I'm not jinxing myself, but I have a 2006 s2000 w/ 48,XXX miles- and other than the passenger side roof clip that had had to be tightened once, my car does not rattle at all. No creaks, rattles squeaks. Nothing.

[@papatorr3669]

A rolling 0-60? You're no dummies, and you well know that a rolling start hides the disadvantage of a narrow power band vehicle like an S2K! You tricked your friend like a magician, haha! NOT a 0-60 comparison at all.

[@HansS2KHotmail]

Miata is good; the S2K is better all day (therefore: with a value that rises each month)

[@MrPicky400]

You know we wanted a drag race

[@emundo007]

S2K all Day, next time test a AP2 much Better suspension and shifting

[@fhowland]

I’ve heard some people say it’s too soft

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

@@fhowland Too soft is relative. The AP1 is a more demanding drive than the AP2, but both are far sharper than 99% of any car at any price made in the last 30-years.

[@fhowland]

@@thepassionofthegoose5472 haha true. I love my AP2 but it does feel a tiny bit soft when pushed to the limit. I’d be curious to drive an AP1. Apparently my year, 07, had the softest spring rates ever put in a S2k.

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

@@fhowland I did not know the 07 had different rates. Interesting. I own an 08 CR, so mine rattles like a rattle being shaken by a toddler. Cheers.

[@fhowland]

@@thepassionofthegoose5472 haha you have the stiffest! So jealous of you owning a CR. Enjoy it :)

[@Savorychicken41]

Couldn’t focus, that Fantasia wizard hat took all of my attention lol.

[@dougiequick1]

Admittedly never drove the Honda but my understanding the power is over the top for canyon carving unless one is very skilled as opposed to the ND which is just a sweetheart you are a lot less likely to get into trouble .... If I just wanted power Id get a muscle car...I want small light canyne carver ...I would have been and still would be AWESOME if Honda put their heart into building a really sweet price point sports car ...tight and light with power! A true answer to Porsche Cayman/Boxter....something the Miata has never been of course

[@鄭文凱-m3y]

good video for review s2000 & MX5

[@massimilianozeni1848]

I own a 2007 european s2000 (F20C in ap2 body) with 60000km and it doesn t make a single rattle, that’s strange. Maybe the build quality improved through the years or maybe the car you tested was modified (seat and other stuff) and not properly re-screwed together. I like the ND2 miata and I would like to test drive one. To all those who say that this miata it s the new s2000 of these day I reply that the s2000 costed a little more than the miata back in the day but it was a car capable of running on many tracks faster than a boxster S of that era. Try to do that with the nd2 today, make it going faster than a current boxster s...so no, sorry there is no substitute for the s2000 unless Honda (or someone else) makes a spider which goes faster than the today boxster s 718 and cost a little more (don t remember how much more) than this nd2 or around 30-40% less than the Porsche (by looking even better, as it looks miles better than the first boxster) . Oh and good luck with that! :)

[@patrickbateman7122]

I know this video was posted 9 odd months ago but just come across your content and your talking about the details like true car enthusiasts like myself and i feel that's rare with YT car reviewers so fair play! I'm on my 2nd FT86 platform car being a BRZ this time. I kick myself every day for getting another one as i didn't love my 86 and think this is even worse. Don't get me wrong it's got a good chassis but it leaves me so cold and don't get the adrenaline rush. First off i think the engine is rubbish and characterless but the steering feels like a video game to me as well although slightly heavier than my 12 86. I was just wondering if anyone on here went FT86 to an ND2 or S2K and is now getting those feelings back? It's a shame as i think my white 19 BRZ is such a pretty little thing 🤣

[@jack-spicer1381]

I had miatas before and the nd is still not worth 30k

[@AdonisGaming93]

Dude i can literally get a used 2019 miata for the same prices as a 06+ ap2....ugh I want an s2k but thye just...ugh

[@brucelee7283]

s2k is overpriced for a 20 year old 4 cylinder roadster...and miata is just really slow....sure its fun to toss around but after awhile when you realize you can only do so much with 160-180hp you will regret buying it....

[@brucelee7283]

if i were you i would get this low mileage vq35hr roadster.... it would cost you half the price of a 2019 miata or s2k....and youll smoke porsches on the track and smoke mustang 5.0s in straight line races... sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/ctd/d/escondido-2007-nissan-350z-roadster/7155420727.html

[@AdonisGaming93]

@@brucelee7283 i had an NB miata with 140hp....zero regrets. Power to get speeding tickets gets old. Much more fun to be able to take turns. Also I ended up getting an s2k...and holy shit do I love it