If ever an engine was built for the real die-hard driving enthusiast, it was Honda’s F20C aboard the AP1 S2000. This went on sale between the 2000 and 2003 model years as a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated production engine that could somehow live near 9,000 rpm without spontaneously eating itself. It produced 240 hp at 8,300 rpm and 153 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm, and it had a character that rewarded commitment. The engine built a formidable reputation around its bright redline and digital tach, making every shift feel like a qualifying lap. But while enthusiasts really loved its performance, many wanted to know how Honda could keep the engine alive amid all that drama.
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