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The Honda S2000, since its debut in 1999, has achieved legendary status among sports car enthusiasts. Created by Honda to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary, it stands as a tribute to the marque's racing pedigree.
The S2000 is a blend of high-performance engineering and minimalist design, featuring a high-revving VTEC engine, perfect weight distribution, and a driver-focused cockpit. It was specifically designed with a low center of gravity and a rear-wheel-drive configuration, traits that are typically associated with sports cars.
The S2000's F20/F22C1 VTEC engine, which generates an impressive 240 horsepower, combined with its six-speed manual transmission, has garnered praise for delivering raw, visceral driving experiences unmatched by modern, tech-heavy sports cars. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and sheer driving enjoyment has made the S2000 a favorite amongst track-day enthusiasts and aftermarket tuners.
When it comes to boosting the performance of your Honda S2000, choosing the right exhaust header can make a huge difference. But with so many options available, finding the best S2000 header that fits your driving style can seem overwhelming.
In this guide, we cut through the noise and dive deep into some of the best exhaust headers for the Honda S2000. We look at each header's design, material, performance impact, and overall value, weighing their pros and cons. We also consider real-world feedback from users and highlight what makes each header stand out.
Whether you're looking for a balance between cost and performance or chasing the highest power gains, this guide can help you find the best headers for your S2000. Whether you use your car for daily drives or track days, we've got you covered. Join us on this journey to upgrade your S2000's performance!
Exhaust headers are the first part of your vehicle's exhaust system, bolted directly to the engine's cylinder heads. Their primary function is to collect the exhaust gasses from each cylinder and direct them into one pipe, leading to the rest of the exhaust system.
Unlike stock exhaust manifolds that typically have a restrictive design, performance headers are designed to minimize the resistance to the flow of exhaust gasses, maximizing engine efficiency and power.
Exhaust headers work based on the rules of fluid dynamics. Essentially, they give each cylinder its own mini exhaust pipe. These pipes are precisely measured so the exhaust gasses from one cylinder don't mix with those from others. This helps prevent back pressure, or a sort of 'traffic jam' of gasses, from impacting other cylinders, leading to a smooth outflow of exhaust gasses.
This process is called 'scavenging.' It's like a quick exit system for exhaust gasses, helping the engine 'breathe' better. This results in improved power and fuel efficiency, allowing your engine to operate as intended.
Deciding on whether an aftermarket exhaust header is a worthwhile upgrade for your S2K depends on several factors. If you're looking to improve performance and have a more exhilarating driving experience, an aftermarket header is indeed an investment worth considering. Performance headers are designed to increase exhaust flow efficiency, reduce back pressure and increase horsepower and torque across the rev range.
This ultimately leads to a more responsive throttle and noticeable improvement in acceleration, particularly in the mid to high rpm range - an area where the S2000 truly shines. Apart from performance gains, aftermarket headers can also improve the sound of your S2000, offering a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note that many owners seek.
Furthermore, high-quality headers are typically more durable than stock headers, offering the added benefit of longevity. However, it's essential to consider the cost, installation complexity, and potential changes in emissions compliance. Some headers may not be legal for street use in certain areas due to stricter emission standards.
Understanding your specific goals, budget, and local regulations is crucial in determining whether an aftermarket exhaust header is the right upgrade for your S2000.
Exhaust headers need to withstand high temperatures and constant thermal cycling, and the materials used in their construction are vital for long-term durability. High-quality aftermarket headers are usually made from materials like stainless steel or ceramic-coated metals, known for their heat resistance and corrosion-resistant properties. The quality of welds is another critical aspect to consider as it ensures a leak-free operation, preventing loss of exhaust gasses and maintaining the performance gain.
The design of exhaust headers for the Honda S2000 refers to the way pipes from the engine's cylinders come together. In a 4-2-1 or tri-Y design, the four pipes from the engine merge into two, and then these two pipes merge into one. This header configuration benefits the Honda S2000 during regular street driving, improving mid-range power and torque.
On the flip side, the 4-1 design, also known as a 4-into-1, combines all four pipes directly into one. This design improves power at high revs, making it an ideal choice for Honda S2000 owners who frequently participate in track days or racing activities.
Ensuring that the headers are specifically designed for the Honda S2000 is critical. Specific headers are designed considering the unique engine design and mounting points of the S2000, which ensures proper fitment and performance gains.
Using headers not specifically designed for your vehicle can lead to fitment issues and potentially subpar performance. It's critical to choose a set of headers designed specifically for your S2K to avoid a potential headache and waste of money in both the long and short term.
Installing exhaust headers on your Honda S2000 can vary in difficulty depending on a variety of factors. If the header comes with all the necessary parts such as gaskets, bolts, and other hardware, and it aligns perfectly with your existing exhaust system, then on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being the easiest, the installation would be rated as a 2 for an experienced DIYer.
However, if the header doesn't come with the necessary parts, or it doesn't perfectly align with your existing exhaust system, this can make the installation process more complicated, and it could be rated as a 4 on the difficulty scale.
Please remember that these ratings can vary based on your personal experience and familiarity with car modifications. We always recommend you seek professional assistance if you're unsure about the process of installing any parts on your S2000 to avoid potential human error during the installation process.
The price of performance headers for your Honda S2000 can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as brand reputation, the material used, and design factors. Striking the right balance between cost and a potential performance boost is an important aspect of the selection process.
Certain headers might promise a notable increase in power but come with a substantially steeper price. It's worth evaluating whether the performance gains justify the additional investment.
Moreover, it's vital to consider that while headers can notably improve your Honda's performance, they truly shine when working in harmony with other performance upgrades, such as an aftermarket exhaust system, custom ECU tuning, and intake modifications.
And now the moment you’ve been waiting for…let’s talk Honda S2000 headers! We've handpicked a selection of the best Honda S2000 headers that offer hi-qualify construction, impressive performance, and great overall value. However, it's important to note that this list isn't exhaustive. Some S2000 headers, although excellent, might be discontinued or difficult to source and are not included on our list.
In our review process, we've scrutinized each product in terms of construction, performance improvements, ease of installation, and value, while also taking into account real user experiences for a well-rounded perspective.
Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to pick an aftermarket header that not only will be a great investment for your S2000 but also aligns with your performance goals and budget. Let's get started!
Re-define the boundaries of power, efficiency, and value with the Berk Header designed exclusively for your Honda S2000. Crafted from premium 304 stainless steel, this marvel of automotive engineering incorporates thermal barrier coating from High Performance Coatings (HPC). Utilizing their Hipercoat 1600+ process both inside and out, the header sustains high exhaust gas velocity, something often overlooked for maximizing power numbers.
The Berk Header sports large port 50mm primaries and a high-flow CAD designed 2.5 inch collector, helping your S2000's engine expel gasses more quickly and increase overall power numbers. The Berk Header also incorporates a secondary wideband O2 sensor port for precision fuel tuning and is a great addition if you already have the Berk Technology 2.5" test pipe or high flow catalytic converter installed. This is one of the world's few S2000 headers that combines top-tier performance, quality construction, and ceramic coating both inside and out, all while maintaining an accessible price point.
For S2000 owners who are looking for more power, exceptional reliability, and remarkable value-for-money, the Berk Header stands out as an exceptional choice.
Delivering on its promise of superior performance, the URGE Unicorn Header can be one of the most beneficial performance upgrades for your Honda S2000. Meticulously crafted, this header guarantees an impressive power increase across the entire RPM range, increasing both high-end power and mid-range torque. The detail-oriented design and hi-quality materials used make it a great example settling for nothing but the best, ensuring that this header is definitely worth the investment.
According to URGE, the Unicorn Header is the result of a 3-year R&D journey that sought to redefine aftermarket S2000 header performance standards. The result? The URGE Unicorn Header boasts a significant 5-10HP increase across the RPM range, surpassing even OEM headers when compared on several 3rd party dynos. This header has also been a proven winner for S2000 owners with supercharged engines, as it delivers impressive gains above 4500 RPM. Although it represents a substantial investment, URGE’s Unicorn header is a case study in high-quality fabrication and its remarkable performance gains make it an excellent choice for your S2000 build.
Improve your Honda S2000's horsepower and torque numbers with the J’s Racing 4-2-1 Header, a testament to Japanese automotive mastery. Created for the S2000's F-series engines, the J’s Racing header is the result of a R&D looking to balance performance, cost, and reliability for S2000 enthusiasts interested in replacing the stock exhaust manifold. The J’s Racing 4-2-1 design improves the exhaust scavenging compared to the stock header, allowing for power gains across the entire rev range.
The J's Racing S2000 header is without a doubt a beautifully handmade piece of engineering, crafted with lightweight SUS304 stainless steel to exacting Japanese standards. The result of almost two years of exhaustive research and development, this header offers proven power gains as evidenced by countless dyno tests. With this header upgrade, you too can unlock the full potential of your S2000's F20C or F22C engine. Investing a J’s Racing 4-2-1 Header ensures top-notch Japanese quality, exceptional durability, and a perfect fit for your S2000.
The Mugen Header, a standout upgrade for the Honda S2000, is the epitome of unyielding commitment to hi-quality performance parts Mugen is well known for in the Honda community. Built on the solid foundation of years of engineering knowledge, the Mugen S2000 header is designed with a 4-2-1 configuration, guaranteeing reliability and a notable performance boost. Constructed from high-grade stainless steel, Mugen focused on improving engine performance, particularly in the 6,000 to 8,000 RPM range, increasing midrange power numbers.
More than a performance upgrade, the Mugen Header also offers significant weight savings for your S2000. The header’s lightweight construction helps reduce weight to a mere 14.1 lbs for the AP1 version and 13.7 lbs for the AP2, a significant drop from the 22.5 lb stock header.While the S2000 may already be a lightweight additional weight savings as always welcome and help improve driving dynamics.
While the Mugen Header for the Honda S2000 definitely comes in at a higher price compared to other options available, the marked performance improvement and quality of product validate its value, making it a solid investment for owners looking to maximize their S2000's potential. In essence, the Mugen Header is the key to unlocking a perfect blend of unmatched reliability and notable power gains.
PLM is proud to offer its Tri-Y Race Header as an economical yet effective choice for Honda S2000 owners looking for an upgrade over their stock exhaust manifold. The PLM Race Header has been designed for optimal exhaust flow, allowing for an improvement in overall engine performance. Made from durable stainless steel, this header promises longevity, even under extreme operating conditions.
The distinguishing feature of the PLM Header is its Tri-Y design. This design incorporates 1.75" primaries and a 2.5" collector, delivering increased low to mid-end power gains. The two-piece layout ensures excellent fitment, making it ideal for S2000s that are street driven or taken to the track. Alongside its robust design and construction, the header comes with a metal header gasket, donut gasket, and all necessary hardware for assembly. It's compatible with the OEM factory upper heat shield and is made of 18G 304 stainless steel for long-lasting durability.
This high-value, affordable header truly proves that performance upgrades for your S2000 don't always have to be a heavy hit on your wallet, and allows you to save some money for other upgrades instead!
Looking for a nice bump in terms of power and torque for your Honda S2000? Then we definitely recommend checking out the Skunk2 MegaPower Header, a budget-friendly solution packing a potent punch. Known for its superior construction and remarkable durability, the Skunk2 MegaPower header is crafted with T-304 stainless steel. This header uses an equal-length, tri-Y design along with cylinder pairing, optimized for improved exhaust flow and increased horsepower.
Skunk2’s MegaPower Header, specifically designed for the S2000, also aligns effortlessly with supercharged S2000s as well! The Skunk2 header also features a thin-wall, cast collector that contributes to an improved throttle response, something you’ll definitely notice in the mid-range and see on the dyno. Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the MegaPower header promises race-winning construction, making it a great option for both everyday S2000 owners and track enthusiasts. Like all Skunk2 products, performance and affordability go hand in hand.
Upgrade your Honda S2000's engine performance with the precision-engineered Invidia 4-2-1 header. Specifically designed for both the AP1 and AP2 S2000s, this exhaust manifold is a great blend of cost-effectiveness with impactful performance improvements. Crafted from fully polished SUS304 Japanese stainless steel, it promises long-lasting durability with the performance benefits to match. The finely crafted tubular design features carefully designed primaries and secondaries, enabling maximized low to mid-range power, perfectly suited to all sorts of driving situations.
The Invidia 4-2-1 Header has been designed with equal-length runners, joined together with top-quality welds and CNC machined flanges, showcasing Invidia's commitment to high-quality production. Its design minimizes bends, thereby reducing exhaust turbulence and allowing exhaust gasses to exit smoothly with minimal restriction.
The result? A remarkable gain of 10whp and 12ft/lbs of torque, even on a bone stock S2000. Despite a slightly complex installation process, the power boost and enhanced drivability delivered by Invidia's 4-2-1 Header undeniably justify the effort.
DC Sports 4-2-1 Ceramic Header is an aftermarket exhaust manifold designed specifically for all years of the Honda S2000. Not just an ordinary performance upgrade, the DC Sports header offers an impressive combination of durability, increased horsepower, and improved torque across the rev range. Made with quality T-409 stainless steel and mandrel bent piping, it features a 4-2-1 configuration, designed to optimize low to mid-range torque. This construction makes it ideal for those who enjoy a thrilling driving experience from their S2000 without compromise.
The DC Sports header also features CNC machined flanges and larger than stock diameter piping. Its equal-length primary runners ensure a direct path for exhaust gasses, improving horsepower and torque throughout the entire power band. The ceramic coating aids in reducing under hood temperatures and combats corrosive road conditions, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Plus, it's 50 State C.A.R.B Certified, making it legal for any S2000 owner in the good old USA.
If you’re looking for durability and improved performance on the street, the DC Sports 4-2-1 Ceramic Header is worth a second look!
Level up your Honda S2000's performance with the Tegiwa Race Header, an impressive exhaust header from the well-known UK-based brand. Built with resilience and power in mind, it's fabricated from 304-grade stainless steel, renowned for its durability and rust resistance. This exhaust header, featuring the popular 4-2-1 design, promises to increase horsepower across the rev range, marking its suitability for both daily driven and track-focused S2000s.
The Tegiwa Race Header comes with a unique implementation of CNC mill-cut flanges and advanced robotic rotation purge TIG welding, ensuring precision and strength every time. The result is a race header that yields impressive gains of between 2-5 hp even before mapping and a whopping 7-10 hp with a custom tune when used with supporting bolt-ons. The 51mm OD primaries and a 63mm OD collector flange further contribute to the horsepower enhancement.
Although installing an aftermarket header might be a bit of a chore, the considerable power increases and versatility of the Tegiwa Race Header make it a worthwhile choice for any S2000 enthusiast looking for a notable power bump.
The HKS Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold is a great performance upgrade for the Honda S2000, known for its quality construction and power gains. Made of sturdy stainless steel, the HKS header ensures durability and resistance against high heat when you're driving your S2000 hard. HKS has also implemented a unique twist in the header’s design, which extends its length and consequently improves torque at mid-range rpms, addressing a common complaint from owners about S2000's F-Series engines.
The manifold features a 4-2-1 layout, maintaining the factory design while improving upon it. Despite its substantial performance improvements, it is also lightweight, weighing in at just 9.9 lbs, substantially lighter than the stock header. This exhaust manifold also comes equipped with welded heat shield brackets, ensuring that you can retain the factory heat shielding to reduce engine bay temps and pass visual inspection. The HKS Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold is a great investment for S2000 drivers, improving power for all sorts of driving situations and helping reduce weight to make your S2k even more nimble than it was before.
The Toda Racing 4-2-1 Exhaust Manifold for the Honda S2000 is a true testament to Toda's race-driven ethos. Crafted from high-grade stainless steel, it ensures durability, heat resistance, and weight savings. Featuring the common 4-2-1 design, Toda’s improves power across the rev range, making it a top pick for S2000 enthusiasts that value high-quality parts. Whether you're driving it on public roads or turning laps at your local race track, the Toda Racing 4-2-1 Exhaust Manifold proves itself as a superior choice for those demanding the best from their S2000.
Toda Racing provides two variations of this exhaust manifold - the Standard version and the newly introduced "Torquie-kun". The Standard variant focuses on high-end power, ideal for competition use where high RPMs are the norm. The "Torquie-kun" version, however, aims to boost mid-range torque and power, with a minimal loss in high-end power. Both versions come with an auxiliary oxygen sensor port, enabling precise tuning of engine management systems and fuel control devices.
Whether you're leaning towards the fuller torque and power curve of the "Torquie-kun", or the additional torque in a practical range provided by the Standard version, the Toda Racing Header ensures a notable Improvement in power compared to the stock exhaust manifold for your S2000.
If you're looking for the perfect balance between peak power and torque then the Spoon Sports 4-2-1 Exhaust Manifold may be the header you’ve been searching for. This exceptional crafted header is a testament to Spoon's unwavering commitment to quality, performance, and innovation. Fabricated from premium-grade stainless steel, Spoon guarantees durability and reliable power. Its unique 4-2-1 layout is the outcome of exhaustive engine-bench, flow-bench, and actual-driving tests, and was designed to increase power delivery across the entire rev range. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a noticeable bump in performance on the street and the track.
The 4-2-1 design, employing slightly uneven pipe lengths, not only contributes to more horsepower and torque but also allows for a significant reduction in weight. Weighing in at a mere 11.5 lbs, this header is nearly 50% lighter than the standard OEM manifold which weighs 22.5 lbs.
Though price tag might turn some S2000 owners away due to the impressive amounts of R&D and high quality material used, the substantial gains in horsepower, torque, and weight reduction make the Spoon Sports 4-2-1 Exhaust Manifold an unparalleled choice for any S2000 owner interested in a top-tier performance header.
If you're looking for some high-quality JDM bling for your Honda S2000's that also improves performance, then the ASM Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold is a win-win. The ASM exhaust manifold for the Honda S2000 is a testament to the brand's dedication to exceptional build quality and increasing overall engine performance. It’s been expertly crafted with high-quality stainless steel to ensure a maximum heat-resistant, unwavering reliability and nice bump terms of horsepower and torque throughout the rev range with its 4-2-1 design, improving upon the stock Honda exhaust manifold.
As part of ASM’s commitment to long term durability, this exhaust manifold also features additional reinforcement brackets on both flanges to increase strength. The ASM header is an ideal fit for any Honda S2000, from the stock F20/F22C1 to a supercharged 2.4 stroker engine, offering the impressive power gains across the board
For S2000 owners looking for a performance upgrade that harmoniously blends everyday usability with performance increases, the ASM Stainless Steel Exhaust Manifold is definitely a pricey but compelling choice.
The Ballade Sports Race Header is without a doubt one of front runners when it comes to the best S2000 header for your money on the market today. Constructed from stainless steel, Ballade built this header with durability in mind and wanted to provide a noticeable improvement in engine performance for both the street and at the track. The header's layout was designed for maximum horsepower at all RPMs, making it an outstanding choice for all sorts of S2K projects.
The Ballade Sports Exhaust Manifold brings cutting-edge features to the table: it showcases a sequential Tri-Y design to accommodate the S2000's 1-3-4-2 firing order and a 5-step pipe sizing configuration to improve exhaust flow and scavenging. The manifold's stepped design - 1.75 inch to 2.5 inch - promotes efficient exhaust flow and a faster exit, giving your S2000 an estimated mid-range horsepower increase of approximately 10whp. Impressively, it also weighs 12 lbs less than the stock header, and it fits the standard factory catalytic converter location seamlessly. The icing on the cake? You can maintain a stealthy look by reusing your original Honda header heat shield with the Ballade Sports Race Header.
For Honda S2K owners that are looking for top-tier performance, this header stands out as a worthy contender that deserves you consideration.
To install an exhaust header on your S2000, you'll need a good set of hand tools, a jack and jack stands, possibly a gasket scraper and a few hours of time. Some headers are reportedly more difficult to install than others due to the tight clearances in the engine bay but for the most part you should be able to accomplish it in a weekend without much thought.
We appreciate you taking the time to read through our comprehensive guide on some of the best exhaust headers for the Honda S2000 available now. We hope that the insights provided have illuminated the influence of these components on your car's performance, and equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Whether your preference leans towards the Skunk2, Ballade, or J’s Racing, we trust that you'll weigh your personal preferences for your S2K in your final choice.
We invite you to explore more of our in-depth content around the Honda S2000 and other performance-oriented upgrades. Your passion for performance drives our commitment to provide engaging, insightful, and helpful content. So, buckle up, enjoy the ride, and stay tuned for more from our experts!
Upgrading the exhaust header can lead to improved horsepower and torque, resulting in better acceleration and overall performance.
If you have some mechanical know-how and the necessary tools, you can install a new header at home. However, for some complex models, professional installation might be recommended.
Typically, a high-quality exhaust header that's properly maintained can last anywhere between 3-5 years. However, regular inspections for any signs of wear or damage are necessary.
A new header can indeed impact your S2000’s fuel efficiency. Usually, an increase in efficiency is observed, as the improved exhaust flow leads to better overall engine performance.
The laws differ by country, state, or city, so it's best to check local regulations before making any modifications to your car's exhaust system.
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