S2000R: Honda's roadster reborn with Civic Type R heart

S2000R created by Evasive Motorsports

The Honda S2000 has long been out of production. But until now, enthusiasts are still exploring what could have been if the roadster had something the Civic and NSX had - a Type R version.

Evasive Motorsports may have made the closest thing to an S2000 Type R with its newest restomod, aptly called the S2000R.

On the outside, the first thing you'll notice is the Championship White paint that's normally seen on red-badged Hondas. But aside from that, Evasive Motorsports widened the front fenders and installed the 20th anniversary S2000 front bumpers with an added carbon fiber front lip.

There's a black Spoon Sports side mirrors, while hidden under the paintwork is a dry carbon hood, trunk, and tonneau cover. Other exposed carbon fiber bits include the rear wing, and to top it all off, the S2000R rolls on 18x9 EVS Tuning 52R wheels wrapped in 255/35/R18 Advan Neova AD09 tires.

Inside, the S2000R's cabin was further transformed with an emphasis on driver focus and pure race functionality. The dashboard has been refinished in Alcantara leather with red accent stitching to bring it to the present. EVS Tuning made carbon fiber door cards to further shed weight, while the seats have been replaced with Recaro Podium bucket seats made from carbon fiber.

The Civic Type R shift knob made its way to the S2000R's shifter, while behind the Momo steering wheel is a new Motec display that features a Civic Type R style theme and layout.

The American performance parts specialist swapped out the S2000's 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated, high-revving F20C inline-four DOHC VTEC engine for the FK8 Civic Type R's 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo. While purists might have something to say about the S2000R's heart transplant, there's no doubt that the turbocharged mill unlocks another level when it comes to the roadster's performance.

Evasive Motorsports made a special intake manifold for the Mugen carbon fiber intake, an upgraded downpipe, and a standalone MoTec engine management system. Power remains at 310 PS for the S2000R prototype, but since Evasive Motorsports offers aftermarket upgrades, buyers can likely have the S2000R with more power should they wish.

In terms of transmission, the S2000's original 6-speed manual has been retained and was successfully married to the K20 with the use of a custom bell housing. Evasive Motorsports upgraded the S2000's rear limited slip differential from OS Giken to manage the increased power, while Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers take care of stopping the roadster. Also, handling is further enhanced with the use of KW Clubsport coilovers, plus upgraded sway bars and bushings.

Currently, chassis #000 serves as the demo car for the S2000R series, but Evasive Motorsports says they will build more versions, with some custom-tailored to fit a customer's needs and wants. The company can provide the base chassis or existing owners of the S2000 AP1 and AP2 can bring their cars in for the makeover. As for pricing, Evasive Motorsports did not give a number and says the cost depends on how far the customer wants to explore the S2000R's potential.