- The car’s frame has been completely rebuilt, and the S2000 has new suspension and brakes.
- Forged pistons and steel rods have been added to the Dodge Viper’s 8.3-liter V10.
- Impressively, the car has an excellent front-to-rear weight distribution of 47% and 53%.
As thrilling as the spine-tingling, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine in the Honda S2000 is, the roadster has gained quite a reputation over the years for engine swaps. While many owners opt for Honda’s larger K24 2.4-liter or track down an LS V8, this particular S2000 has gone a step further, featuring the 8.3-liter V10 from a ZB-generation Dodge Viper. Purists are probably cringing right now, but this might just be the ultimate S2000.
Featured in a recent episode from Autotopia LA, the current owner had previously built a V8 S2000, and was on the hunt for a new project. After browsing through some forums, he found a Viper-powered S2000 on the East Coast, and just knew he had to have it. While the car came with the V10, a tremendous amount of work had to be done to turn it into the ultimate street car.
Read: Brand New Dodge Viper Spent 28 Years On Top Of A Dealer Sign
Thanks to several local fabrication shops, the Honda’s original frame was replaced to handle the Viper engine’s sheer horsepower and torque. The car now sports a completely rebuilt frame, with custom hubs, axles, and a rear differential sourced from a Ford Explorer. The owner claims the drivetrain is built to support up to 1,000 horsepower. The kind of power will make your daily commute feel like an extreme amusement park ride.
The V10 itself, a naturally-aspirated 8.3-liter unit from the Viper, originally churned out 510 horsepower and 535 lb-ft of torque. But the owner wasn’t content with stock numbers. The engine now features forged pistons, steel rods, and new heads. It also sports bespoke headers and a custom exhaust system, ensuring it sounds as menacing as it performs.
Impressively, the car remains relatively light despite the new V10, tipping the scales at 3,201 lbs or 1,451 kg. As most of the engine is positioned behind the front axle, the front-to-rear weight distribution is an excellent 47% and 53%. Virtually every other part imaginable is new, including AP Racing front brakes, Wilwood rear brakes, and adjustable suspension from Penske. It also sits on 18-inch wheels clad in massive 315 tires at the front and 335 shoes at the rear.