Your Honda S2000’s exhaust system defines its iconic sound, but choosing the wrong one can ruin the driving experience. Finding the Best Exhaust For Honda S2000 is not just about noise; it’s about performance, weight, and that perfect tone that makes the F20C engine sing. This guide breaks down every top option so you can make a smart choice.
We know you want a system that screams at 9000 RPM without droning on the highway. The right exhaust transforms your car from a fun weekend toy into a visceral driving machine. Let’s get straight to the point.
Best Exhaust For Honda S2000
Choosing the right exhaust depends on your goals. Are you tracking the car daily? Do you want maximum horsepower or a specific sound profile? We cover the top contenders below.
Top 5 Exhaust Systems Ranked
These systems are widely considered the best in the community. Each offers a unique balance of sound, power, and build quality.
- HKS Hi-Power Exhaust – Classic deep tone, great for daily driving.
- Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust – Quietest option, zero drone, OEM+ feel.
- Greddy Supreme SP Exhaust – Aggressive sound, lightweight, track-ready.
- Tanabe Medalion Touring Exhaust – Balanced sound, excellent fitment.
- J’s Racing 70RS Exhaust – Race-focused, loud, titanium construction.
Key Factors To Consider Before Buying
Not all exhausts work the same way. Here is what you need to evaluate before spending your money.
Sound Level And Drone
Drone is the low-frequency hum at cruising speeds. Some exhausts are notorious for it. The Invidia Q300 is the quietest, while the J’s Racing is ear-splitting.
Material And Weight
Stainless steel is durable but heavy. Titanium saves weight but costs more. A lighter exhaust improves handling and throttle response.
Performance Gains
Most cat-back systems add 5-10 horsepower. Headers and test pipes add more but increase noise. The Best Exhaust For Honda S2000 balances power with daily usability.
Fitment And Installation
Some systems require modification. Bolt-on kits are easier. Check for clearance issues with aftermarket bumpers or diffusers.
Detailed Reviews Of Each System
We tested these systems on both AP1 and AP2 models. Here are the honest pros and cons.
HKS Hi-Power Exhaust
This is a legendary choice. It produces a deep, muscular tone without being obnoxious. The polished tip looks great.
- Pros: Deep sound, no drone, affordable price.
- Cons: Heavy compared to titanium options.
- Best for: Daily drivers who want a refined upgrade.
Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust
If you hate drone, this is your pick. It is the quietest aftermarket system available. Perfect for long trips.
- Pros: Virtually no drone, OEM quality, easy install.
- Cons: Too quiet for some enthusiasts.
- Best for: Commuters and highway cruisers.
Greddy Supreme SP Exhaust
This system offers an aggressive note that wakes up at high RPM. It is lightweight and well-constructed.
- Pros: Great sound, good power gains, solid build.
- Cons: Some drone at 3000-3500 RPM.
- Best for: Weekend canyon runs and track days.
Tanabe Medalion Touring Exhaust
Tanabe is known for quality. This system has a refined tone that is louder than stock but not overbearing.
- Pros: Perfect fitment, durable, balanced sound.
- Cons: Slightly heavier than competitors.
- Best for: Owners who want a premium feel.
J’s Racing 70RS Exhaust
This is the loudest and lightest option. It uses titanium and screams at redline. Not for the faint of heart.
- Pros: Extreme weight savings, race-car sound, beautiful welds.
- Cons: Very loud, expensive, can attract police attention.
- Best for: Track-only cars or dedicated enthusiasts.
Installation Guide For Beginners
You can install most cat-back systems at home with basic tools. Follow these steps carefully.
- Jack up the rear of the car and secure it on jack stands.
- Spray all bolts with penetrating oil. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Remove the old exhaust from the catalytic converter back.
- Compare the new system to the old one for fitment.
- Install the new exhaust loosely, starting from the front.
- Tighten all bolts evenly. Do not overtighten.
- Start the engine and check for leaks.
Tip: Use new gaskets and copper anti-seize on the bolts. This prevents future rust.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many owners rush into a purchase and regret it. Avoid these errors.
- Ignoring drone: Test drive a car with the exhaust first.
- Buying only for loudness: Loud does not mean good.
- Skipping headers: A full system gives better results.
- Not checking local laws: Some exhausts are illegal for street use.
Performance Tuning After Exhaust Upgrade
An exhaust alone helps, but tuning unlocks more power. Consider a ECU flash or standalone unit.
- Hondata FlashPro: Popular choice for S2000s.
- AEM F/IC: Budget-friendly piggyback system.
- Cold air intake: Complements exhaust for better airflow.
Combine these mods for a 15-20 horsepower gain. The car will feel noticably faster.
Budget Options Under $500
Not everyone can spend $1000 on an exhaust. Here are affordable alternatives.
- Megan Racing Exhaust: Loud but cheap. Expect some drone.
- Skunk2 MegaPower Exhaust: Good sound, decent build.
- Used OEM exhaust: Free if you find one. Not an upgrade.
These options work, but they lack the refinement of premium brands. You get what you pay for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best exhaust for honda s2000 for daily driving?
The Invidia Q300 is the best for daily driving. It has minimal drone and a civil sound level.
Does a cat-back exhaust add horsepower to the S2000?
Yes, most cat-back systems add 5-10 horsepower. Combined with a tune, gains are higher.
Can I install an exhaust on my S2000 myself?
Yes, with basic tools and jack stands. The process takes about 1-2 hours.
Which exhaust is loudest for the S2000?
The J’s Racing 70RS is the loudest. It is not recommended for street use in most areas.
Will an exhaust void my warranty?
Aftermarket parts do not automatically void the warranty. However, dealer claims may be denied if the exhaust caused damage.
Final Verdict
After testing all these systems, the HKS Hi-Power remains the best all-around choice. It delivers the iconic S2000 sound without being annoying. For track use, go with J’s Racing. For daily comfort, pick Invidia.
Remember, the Best Exhaust For Honda S2000 is the one that matches your driving style. Take your time, listen to sound clips, and ask local owners for feedback. Your S2000 deserves the perfect exhaust.
We hope this guide helps you make the right choice. Enjoy the symphony of that F20C engine at full chat. You will not regret it.