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Three Things I Love About Our Red Copen Cero
Our red Copen Cero is a car I could happily keep. From its D-SPORT seat covers to its thoughtful details and hidden chassis upgrades, here are three reasons why.
When Should You Replace Your S2000’s Ignition Coils?
Find out how your S2000’s ignition coils age, why spark-plug condition matters and how to choose between genuine Honda replacements and high-spark coils.
Importing Cars and Parts from Japan: 0% Duty? Not So Simple.
Japan’s “0% duty” headlines can mislead buyers. We explain what CEPA means for used cars and replacement parts—and why the saving is not automatic.
S2000 Fuel System Refresh, Part 2: Four Components in the Engine Bay
After refreshing the fuel pump assembly, we move into the S2000’s engine bay. Four genuine Honda components—and why their age and maintenance history matter when planning preventative work.
Before You Import a Copen, Decide What You Want to Receive
Before searching Japan for your Copen, decide what you want to receive in Britain. Our blue Robe S shows how repairs, preparation and equipment shape the finished car—and your total budget.
Changing Your S2000’s Coolant? Six Things to Consider While You Are There
A coolant change is an opportunity to plan more than fresh fluid. Using our demonstrator S2000, we explore six areas of preventative maintenance and tuning—from ageing hoses and a hard-to-reach knock sensor to coolant and intake temperature control.
Six Yellow Copens at Auction: What Would Your Budget Buy?
Six yellow Copens, three interior choices and hammer prices from ¥690,000 to ¥1,600,000. We read each auction sheet to help you decide what belongs on your shortlist—and in your import budget.
S2000 Driveshaft Restomod: Restoring the Finish and Refining the CV Joints
We restore the finish on ageing S2000 driveshafts, renew the CV joint grease and boots, and adjust the outboard joints for freer movement.
What Do the Most Expensive Copens in Japan Look Like?
Why are some Daihatsu Copens advertised for nearly ¥3 million in Japan? We explore nine customised, limited-edition and exceptionally preserved examples—and consider whether importing the finished car or building your own in Britain makes more sense.
S2000 Wheel Alignment: Check the Adjusting Bolts Before Chasing the Numbers
Before chasing alignment numbers on an S2000, make sure the suspension can still be adjusted. We review the factory settings, explain toe, camber and caster, and show what happens when the adjusting bolts seize inside the bushes.
Buying a JDM Copen with an Aftermarket Exhaust: Five Systems Compared
Five of our LA400 Copens came with five different exhaust systems. We listen to each one and ask when a branded exhaust already fitted in Japan is genuinely worth paying more for.
Can You Fit 9.5J Wheels to an S2000 Without Rolling the Arches?
Wider wheels within standard S2000 wings—but not by wheel size alone. We explain our demonstrator’s 17×9.5J +63 square setup, the supporting suspension parts and the compromises involved.
Is a Damaged Copen Really Affordable for Your Project?
Repair history, an R auction grade or an unrepaired accident car: which route makes a Copen genuinely affordable? We compare prices in Japan and Britain.
How Do You Choose the Best Coilovers for Your Honda S2000?
Stock-style, spring-platform-adjustable or damper-length-adjustable? We compare their structures, adjustment methods and costs to help you choose the right suspension for your Honda S2000.
We Found 1,099 LA400 Copens in Japan—Which One Would You Choose?
Robe, Cero, XPLAY or GR Sport? We walk through 1,099 Japanese retail listings, one choice at a time, until the Copen you want begins to take shape.
How Can Stiffer Springs Make an S2000 Feel Calmer?
Why did our S2000 feel calmer after fitting stiffer springs? We compare the original Eibach springs with Suspension Plus UC-01—and explore why spring rate tells only part of the story.
How Accurate Is the Damage Diagram on a Japanese Auction Sheet?
How much can an auction sheet really tell you about a car’s condition? Using our 3.5C-rated Copen Cero, we compare the original damage diagram with the defects later found—and the true cost of recovering them.
What Does “Replacing the Clutch” on an S2000 Really Mean?
What does “replacing the clutch” on a Honda S2000 actually include? We follow the complete operating system from the pedal to the flywheel, explain common symptoms and show how thoughtful parts selection can make better use of the labour involved.