Custom Wheel Options for the Legendary Honda S2000 and Acura NSX

The Appeal of the S2000 and NSX Sports Cars

The Honda S2000 and Acura NSX are two of the most iconic and beloved sports cars ever made. Although different in size and price point, they share a focus on lightweight design, high-revving engines, and an emphasis on the driving experience that appeals to purists.

The History of the S2000

Unveiled as a concept car in 1995 to celebrate Honda's 50th anniversary, the S2000 went into production in 1999. It featured a high-winding 2.0L 4-cylinder VTEC engine, rear-wheel drive, and a power-operated soft top. While not overwhelmingly powerful at 240hp, its 9,000 rpm redline and perfect 50/50 weight distribution made it a favorite among enthusiasts.

The S2000 received styling and feature updates in 2004, adding more aggressive bumpers, new wheel designs, and other tweaks. By the time production ended in 2009, over 110,000 S2000s had been sold worldwide. Its combination of simplicity, high revs, and open-air fun cemented its status as a modern icon.

The Acura NSX - Honda's Supercar

Introduced in 1990, the NSX was Honda's first mid-engined supercar. It was conceived as an everyday exotic that could compete with the likes of Ferrari and Porsche through its reliability, quality, and approachable handling.

The original NSX used a 3.0L V6 paired with VTEC variable valve timing to produce 270hp. While not as powerful as its European rivals, the NSX was lighter and more rigid, with sublime balance and responsiveness. Updated versions added more power while retaining its excellent dynamics.

After a decade-long hiatus, Acura revived the NSX in 2016 with a twin-turbo hybrid powertrain and advanced sporting technologies. More complex and expensive than before, it nonetheless carries the NSX pedigree into the modern era.

Custom Wheel Options

One of the easiest ways S2000 and NSX owners personalize their vehicles is by fitting custom wheels. Not only do aftermarket wheels allow owners to put their own stamp on the looks of their cars, but wheel upgrades can also provide performance benefits.

Lightweight Wheel Designs

Shaving weight off the corners pays big dividends for handling and acceleration. Many aftermarket wheels for the S2000 and NSX are built from strong, lightweight alloys, reducing unsprung and rotational mass compared to the factory wheels. Popular lightweight wheel brand names include Volk Racing, Enkei, and BBS.

Staggered Wheel Sizes

The S2000 and NSX both come standard with the same wheel diameter front and rear. However, moving to a staggered setup with larger wheels in back changes the handling balance and allows accommodate larger brake hardware. Wider rear wheels can also provide the extra bite necessary to put more power down.

Show Wheels

The S2000 and NSX naturally draw attention at car shows and meets. For those looking to showcase their cars, "show wheel" designs from brands like Work, Advan, and Volk emphasize appearance. Show wheels come polished, brushed, or painted in custom colors, with multi-spoke designs that show off flashy brake calipers and rotors.

Keeping It Honda

While aftermarket wheels open up many possibilities, some owners prefer to keep the spirit of their cars intact by choosing Honda or Acura factory wheel designs. Swapping wheels and parts between generations of S2000s and NSXs breathes new life into the looks while retaining the OEM essence.

Ultimately, the form and function of S2000 and NSX wheels comes down personal preference. But whether staying factory-accurate or fully customizing, it's hard to make a wrong choice given the inherent goodness of the cars themselves.

FAQs

What's the difference between the Honda S2000 and Acura NSX?

The S2000 is Honda's affordable, front-engine roadster featuring a high-revving 4 cylinder engine. The mid-engined NSX was engineered as an exotic supercar that could compete with Ferraris and Porsches.

Why are aftermarket wheels popular upgrades for these cars?

Aftermarket wheels allow owners to reduce weight, enhance performance through staggered sizing, or simply customize the looks of their S2000s and NSXs.

What are some reputable brands for lightweight performance wheels?

Top brands for lightweight S2000/NSX wheels include Volk Racing, Enkei, and BBS. These companies focus on combining light weight with exceptional strength.

Can I put Honda OEM wheels from other models on my S2000 or NSX?

Yes, some owners choose to upgrade their cars with Honda or Acura factory wheel designs from other models or generations to retain an OEM look.