S2000 vs NB Miata: Japanese Roadster Showdown
Honda S2000 vs Mazda Miata comparison. VTEC vs rotary-free fun, which lightweight roadster is right for you?
Japanese Roadster Showdown
The Honda S2000 and Mazda Miata NB represent two philosophies in the Japanese roadster canon. Both offer open-top driving purity, but they approach it differently: the S2000 with technological brilliance and high-RPM drama; the Miata with accessible fun and forgiving dynamics.
This comparison helps you choose between these beloved platforms based on your priorities, budget, and driving style.
Detailed Comparison
Head to Head
Powertrain
Honda S2000 AP1:
The S2000's F20C engine is an engineering masterpiece. At 240hp from 2.0L naturally aspirated, it achieved the highest specific output of any NA production engine at the time. The magic happens above 6,000 RPM when VTEC engages and the engine screams toward its 9,000 RPM redline.
Mazda Miata NB:
The NB's 1.8L produces a more modest 140hp, but that number undersells the experience. The engine is willing and smooth, pulling cleanly to 7,000 RPM. Later VVT models offer improved mid-range. The Mazdaspeed version adds a turbocharger for 178hp.
Verdict: S2000 for ultimate NA performance; NB for accessible, everyday usability.
Chassis and Handling
Honda S2000:
Front-midship layout with the engine behind the front axle. 50:50 weight distribution. The AP1 is notoriously snappy at the limit—it rewards precision but punishes mistakes. AP2 models softened the rear suspension for more forgiving behavior.
Mazda Miata NB:
Classic front-engine, rear-drive layout with predictable, progressive handling. The Miata teaches you car control without punishing mistakes. The chassis telegraphs its intentions, building confidence in new drivers.
Verdict: NB for learning and pure fun; S2000 for rewarding experienced drivers.
Practicality
S2000: Minimal storage, small cockpit, tight for taller drivers. The focus is performance, not convenience.
Miata NB: Slightly more accommodating, though still compact. Better daily usability with a softer ride and more forgiving tolerances.
Verdict: NB for daily driving; S2000 for weekend warrior duty.
Value and Ownership
S2000: $25,000-40,000 for clean examples. Appreciating as collectors recognize its significance. Strong parts availability from Honda and aftermarket.
Miata NB: $8,000-18,000 for most examples; Mazdaspeed commands $18,000-28,000+. Abundant parts, affordable maintenance, massive community knowledge.
Vehicle A
Pros
- ✓ Legendary F20C engine
- ✓ 9,000 RPM redline
- ✓ Excellent build quality
- ✓ Appreciating value
Cons
- ✗ Expensive to purchase
- ✗ Demanding handling
- ✗ Tight interior
- ✗ High insurance costs
Vehicle B
Pros
- ✓ Affordable to buy
- ✓ Forgiving handling
- ✓ Cheap to maintain
- ✓ Huge community
Cons
- ✗ Less powerful
- ✗ Some interior wear issues
- ✗ Rust prone in some areas
- ✗ Less prestigious
The Verdict
The Verdict
Choose the Honda S2000 if you:
- Want the ultimate naturally aspirated experience
- Can handle (or want to learn) a demanding chassis
- Prioritize high-RPM engagement over everyday usability
- Are willing to pay the premium for Honda's engineering excellence
Choose the Mazda Miata NB if you:
- Want accessible, confidence-building fun
- Value daily drivability alongside weekend enjoyment
- Prefer a forgiving platform for learning car control
- Want maximum smiles per dollar
Our recommendation: The Miata NB makes sense for most buyers. It delivers 90% of the roadster experience at 40% of the cost, with more forgiveness and lower running costs. The S2000 is for those who specifically want its unique high-RPM character and are prepared for its demands.
Both are excellent choices. Neither will disappoint an enthusiast who understands what they're buying.