2002 Honda S2000 GT - 1,179 Miles

Back in 1999, if you wanted a back-to-basics roadster that was quick, handsome and had a stiff chassis with 50/50 weight distribution, you didn’t have too many options. The MX-5 wasn’t far off, but you could hardly call that quick – and the MG F was little-better.

Before the S2000, roadsters generally came with scuttle shake – that awful vibration of the windscreen and dash when you hit a bump – and Honda’s motorsport engineers, who were tasked with building the S2000, were determined to eliminate this. The solution was the high 'X-bone' frame which, in conjunction with the steel monocoque chassis and body structure gave the S2000 levels of rigidity previously unheard of in open-top cars. There hadn't been a roadster with this level of focus on the driver since the Lotus Elise.

The S2000's engine also set the Honda apart from the rest, producing 237bhp from a 2-litre block, impressive enough today, let alone back in 1999 and it did so without forced induction. Cutting-edge dynamics, a rev limit of 9,000rpm and the engine's position far back in the engine bay (almost front/mid-engined) meant that it had no real competition, no other sporting two-seaters could come close to its combination of speed, handling, brakes and good looks. The car was available in GT-spec which included headlight washers, traction control, PAS, CD and a factory hardtop.

The S2000GT offered here is probably unrepeatable as it has covered an incredible 1,179 miles from new and presents as such. It's a UK-supplied, right-hand drive example finished in Nürburgring Blue Metallic with a matching hardtop, complemented by a blue convertible roof with a black leather interior. Equipment includes an electrically operated convertible roof (with stand and cover), heated rear window, air-con, radio CD player, electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors.

Despite the incredibly low mileage, the service book has been stamped a remarkable seven times and accompanying the car are the owners manuals, service book, toolkit, MOTs and service invoices. The car has been garaged from new and this is clear to see from its spectacular condition, which needs to be seen to be appreciated.

The Honda S2000 GT is becoming very collectible and quite right for such an involving sports car. This particular example will certainly be hard to repeat considering its condition, mileage and diligent history. A true 'best of breed' contender, we welcome and encourage your inspection at our Silverstone Festival auction to fully appreciate the quality on offer.