Honda contends (and rightly so) that all the improvements in objective categories can go virtually unrecognized if the man-machine interface isn't optimized as well.

In this sense, many refinements to the '04 S2000 were effected not only for a directly measurable performance benefit, but also to improve the feel of a component or system of components.

A good example of this is the new carbon fiber synchromesh for all gears except reverse. The new synchronizer design features a brass ring with a carbon fiber element bonded on the inner surface, resulting in simplified mechanical components, increased synchronizer capacity, improved abrasion resistance, and reduced weight. The weight reduction and increased capacity of the synchronizers directly results in a "smoother and quicker shifting feel". Further enhancing shift feel quality is a reduction in the load acting on the disc spring. This particular tweak results in reduced shift knob operational load as well as reduced harshness as compared to the current model.

Another example of improved feel is in the operation of the throttle and the relationship to actual vehicle acceleration. To this end, pedal travel was shortened and pedal effort increased. By reducing the diameter of the throttle body drum, pedal effort is increased approximately 10% at the completely shut end, and 6% at WOT. This was done partly to reduce the occurance of accidental throttle input such as when the driver encounters a road undulation. Accelerator pedal travel was shortened by approximately 10mm.

A final area of subjective improvement on the S2000 is in the horn note. A spiral double horn unit replaces the current (puny) flat double horn.