Chris' Honda S2000 - An N/A Screamer with Family Roots

July 12, 2025

After locking down a lifelong relationship with his MR2 (which we previously featured - go check that out if you haven’t), this Honda S2000 came along almost by accident. But sometimes the best cars aren’t bought… they’re inherited.

“My dad bought the S2000 brand new in 2000. It was a toss-up between that and a Chrysler Crossfire - we definitely dodged a bullet there.”

This isn’t just a well-sorted S2K, it’s been in the family since day one. Chris grew up riding shotgun as a teenager, and years later, it became the first sports car he ever drove. So when his dad started splitting his time abroad and decided to sell, there was only one logical outcome.

“I knew the car’s history inside out. It had actually been garaged its whole life. It was a no-brainer.”

It started out completely stock. The original idea? A clean OEM+ look. But in true Chris fashion, “shiny parts and dumb ideas” took over - and what followed was a beautifully balanced, naturally aspirated build with track-ready attitude and timeless Honda style.

While many S2000s end up boosted, Chris stayed loyal to the classic Honda formula - screaming revs, raw throttle response, and as much induction noise as possible.

“I’ve already got a few forced induction cars. I wanted to keep this one NA. It just felt right - ITBs were always the goal.”

The build:

ATPower Individual Throttle Bodies – The star of the show. That noise? Unreal.
ME442 ECU – Tuned to extract every bit of character out of the setup.
Tegiwa Manifold + Gravity Decat + Invidia Exhaust – A high-revving, high-volume combo that suits the ITBs perfectly.
Custom Cusco Catch Can & Brake Booster
Skunk2 VTEC Solenoid & Carbon Slam Panel
Genuine Titanium Bolt Kit – Yes, everywhere.

It’s sharp, responsive, and built to be driven -hard - through the winding backroads of the Yorkshire Dales, where it’s now a staple weekend warrior.

Though the S2000 has always had a clean, timeless design, Chris couldn’t resist turning up the aggression - but without losing the OEM soul.

Shift Speed Carbon Bonnet – Paired with custom quick-release hinges.
Side Skirt Blades – Subtle, but sharpen the look.
Voltex Front Bumper Incoming – At the time of writing, it’s in paint. Expect an even more aggressive face very soon.

Inside, the S2K is all business - pure driver focus with a healthy dose of motorsport DNA.

Recaro Pole Positions & OMP Harnesses – Hug you tight, look the part.
ASM x MOMO Steering Wheel – Mounted to an NRG extra short boss + Works Bell tilt hub.
Defi Gauges – Clean, crisp, and functional.
Kenwood Sound System – Because who doesn’t want some tunes between VTEC kicks?

Chris knew this thing had to feel right on the road. Tail-happy was fun, but precision was the goal.

BC Racing Coilovers – Dialled in for fast-road use.
Cusco Strut Braces (Front & Rear) – Chassis stiffness = confidence.
Hard Race Adjustable Arms – For camber control and geometry tweaks.
Advan 3-Piece V2 Split Rims – A serious wheel with real presence.

“The suspension and wheels totally changed the car. It still feels raw, but it’s way more composed now.”

Favourite Mod? No hesitation here. It’s the ITBs.

“The noise and throttle response are next level. You can’t beat it.”

And what Does Dad Think? You’d expect the original owner to be buzzing about how far the car’s come. Not quite…

“He absolutely hates it now. Says it’s too noisy and the seats are uncomfortable. Oh well!”

Where to see it?

If the sun’s out, Chris is probably out too - either at The Motorist near Leeds, or any number of UK shows throughout the year.

And if you haven’t yet, check out our full podcast with Chris to hear the whole story, from the MR2 to the RX-7 and everything in between.

🎧 Listen to the TLNTD Podcast Episode with Chris →

Shoutouts to the following people who have helped Chris; Felicity Ho – Forever supportive and always getting stuck in, Jason Hardy – Top bodger, Ash Agar and Max Harper – For ruining a brand new exhaust (we’ve all got one of these mates).

“No sponsors, just friends making irresponsible financial decisions since 2012.”

From MR2 to S2K to RX-7… What’s Next?

Chris’ S2000 isn’t just a build - it’s part of the family. It’s raw, refined, and very real. Keep an eye out for that Voltex bumper, and if you see him parked up at a show, don’t be shy -the stories behind these cars are as good as the builds themselves.

📲 Follow Chris on Instagram @zip_tie_certified to keep up with the fleet.

📣 Want to see your car featured in a TLNTD Build Breakdown? Email us at support@tlntd.co.uk or hit us up on socials @tlntdmedia on Instagram and TikTok to get your daily fix of quality automotive content!