Mazda Miata vs Honda S2000: Roadster Showdown

Comparison

Mazda MX-5

n=967 sold12-mo -1.4%

Avg Price

$15k

Range

$5.2k – $31k

Avg Mileage

59,046

Avg Bids

27

Honda S2000

n=556 sold12-mo +3.5%

Avg Price

$33k

Range

$16k – $58k

Avg Mileage

50,163

Avg Bids

30

How to Choose

• The Miata is the better entry-level choice, cheaper to buy, insure, and maintain.
• The S2000's VTEC engine is a masterpiece but demands high RPMs to come alive. It's less relaxing than the Miata.
• The Miata has 4 generations to choose from (NA, NB, NC, ND). The S2000 had 1 generation (1999-2009).
• The S2000 AP1 (2000-2003 in the US) has 9,000 RPM and snappier handling. The AP2 (2004-2009) has more torque and a calmer rear end.
• Both are excellent track day cars. The Miata has a more active aftermarket and racing community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda S2000 better than the Miata?

Faster and more intense, yes. Better? That's subjective. The S2000 is the sharper, more focused car, while the Miata is more playful and accessible. Many enthusiasts own both for different reasons. The Miata offers more smiles per dollar.

Why is the Honda S2000 so expensive?

The S2000 is no longer in production (ended 2009), has a legendary engine, and has become a modern classic. Clean, low-mileage examples are increasingly rare. The AP1 is especially sought after for its 9,000 RPM redline.

Which Miata generation is the best?

The NA (1990-1997) is the purest and lightest. The NB (1998-2005) is a refined NA. The NC (2006-2015) is the most comfortable. The ND (2016+) is the best overall car. For cheap thrills, buy an NA or NB. For daily driving, the ND.

Are the S2000 and Miata reliable?

Both are exceptionally reliable. The Honda F20C/F22C engine is bulletproof if properly maintained, and the Mazda Miata is one of the most reliable sports cars ever made across all generations. Neither requires exotic-car maintenance budgets.

Will the Honda S2000 keep appreciating?

Very likely. The S2000 checks every future classic box: limited production, legendary engine, manual only, Honda reliability, and a devoted enthusiast following. Clean AP1 examples are leading the appreciation curve.