I actually recently saw a silver AP2 from a local match sporting a jdp s2000 rear diffuser , and it honestly reminded me the reason why this unique piece of aero has remained so popular over the years. If you've spent any time upon the forums or even scrolling through S2KI, you know that will picking a diffuser for the Honda S2000 is a bit of a minefield. You possibly go with some thing super aggressive that needs cutting your bumper, or you end up with something that looks like the cheap plastic holder tacked onto the back.
The particular JDP option sits in that perfect "Goldilocks" zone. It's not so loud that it screams with regard to attention, but it's definitely noticeable plenty of to make people realize your vehicle isn't just one more stock S2K. Let's break down what makes this thing mark, the headaches you may run into, and whether it's really worth your hard-earned cash.
Exactly why Everyone Seems in order to Want One
The S2000 has a classic shape, yet let's be real—the rear bumper around the AP2 models can look a little "floaty. " There's plenty of space between the exhaust suggestions and the surface, and it may make the car look higher than it really is. Adding a jdp s2000 rear diffuser fixes that visual gap very quickly.
Among the coolest things about JDP's design is usually how it comes after the factory outlines. It doesn't attempt to reinvent the particular wheel. By using the "tuck" style style that wraps about the bottom from the bumper, giving it a much more finished, "OEM plus" look. Most people who move for this diffuser aren't trying to develop a dedicated time-attack monster; they're looking for a clear, streetable aesthetic that will looks like something Honda might have got offered as an optional extra.
The particular Carbon Fiber Quality
When you're buying aftermarket carbon dioxide, you're always playing a bit of a lottery. I've seen some diffusers arrive looking like they were finished in a dusty garage with a shake can. However, JDP Engineering generally includes a solid reputation for their weave quality.
The carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer used in the particular jdp s2000 rear diffuser is definitely usually a 2x2 twill weave, which matches most additional common carbon components like hoods or mirrors. The obvious coat they make use of is pretty heavy, giving it that will "wet" look that will makes carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer therefore satisfying to check out under direct sunlight. Having said that, it's still carbon fiber. If you depart your vehicle out in the sun 24/7 without some extra UV protection or even a good polish, any clear layer is eventually going to yellow or even peel. It's only the nature of the particular beast.
Fitment: The great and the Ugly
Let's talk about the particular elephant in the particular room: fitment. In the world of S2000 parts, "bolt-on" is usually a lie. Luckily, the jdp s2000 rear diffuser is known for getting pretty decent fitment right out from the container, especially when compared with several of the less expensive eBay replicas you'll find floating about.
Usually, it's designed to end up being held on by a combination of 3M double-sided tape and a few anchoring screws into the underside from the bumper. Because it's a slim, flexible piece associated with carbon, it may contours to the fender quite well. However, don't expect it in order to "snap" in to place perfectly without having any effort. You'll likely need a buddy to help you hold it regular as you line everything up.
A typical trick in the community is by using a bit of heat (like a hair dryer or even a heat weapon on an extremely low setting) in order to get the item a bit more pliable if it's being stubborn. Once it's on, it's rock solid, but getting these initial gaps flawlessly even takes a little bit of patience.
The Sagging Issue
If a person take a look at older strings about this diffuser, you'll see some owners going on about the center section sagging over time. This usually happens because the particular air catching below the car puts pressure on the particular diffuser, and in case it's only kept on by tape, it starts to draw away.
If you're planning upon installing a jdp s2000 rear diffuser , do yourself a favor and fabricate or buy a few small L-brackets in order to support the middle section. Mounting it towards the actual framework or a more solid area of the bumper structure the world associated with difference. It retains the lines straight and prevents that "droopy" look that can ruin the whole aesthetic.
Single vs. Dual Exhaust Options
One of the best parts about JDP is that will they actually thought about the various exhaust setups we run. The S2000 came with a dual exhaust, but a ton of all of us switch to a single exit regarding weight savings plus better flow.
For those who have the single exit exhaust system, a standard dual-exit diffuser leaves a giant, awkward hole on the remaining side of your own car. JDP offers a single-exit edition of their diffuser that "plugs" that hole, making the particular rear end appear symmetrical and deliberate. It's a little detail, but it's you should know people choose JDP over brand names like Shine or even Spoon. It simply looks right .
Could it be Functional Aero?
I'll end up being honest with you—unless you're hitting triple-digit speeds on a track, you probably aren't going to "feel" the aerodynamic benefits of a jdp s2000 rear diffuser . Although it does technically assist smooth out the particular air coming from below the car and reduces some of the turbulence at the rear of the rear bumper, it's mostly the cosmetic upgrade.
If you're developing a car intended for NASA or SCCA racing and you need every oz of downforce a person can get, you'd probably be searching at an enormous, frame-mounted Voltex diffuser. Yet for a spirited Sunday drive through the canyons or a local car present? The JDP unit provides more than enough "performance" by causing the car look much more planted.
The Waiting Sport
Here's the particular catch. JDP Executive is a relatively small operation. They aren't mass-producing these issues in a large factory overseas. Due to that, the business lead times can be well, legendary.
It's not really uncommon to hear about people waiting several weeks for their purchase to ship. Some people get lucky and find one in share at a supplier, when you're ordering direct, you've obtained to be prepared to wait around. Is it worth the wait? Most owners say yes. There's something specific about having the part that isn't on every solitary S2000 in your city. Simply don't sell your own current bumper setup the day you place the order, or you may be waiting a while.
Comparison with Other Brands
How does the jdp s2000 rear diffuser build up against the competition?
- Tea spoon Sports: The Spoon diffuser is iconic, but it's huge. This hangs low and can be a problem if your vehicle is slammed. The particular JDP is very much more "driveway friendly. "
- Voltex: This is for the "race car" look. It's intense, expensive, and generally requires a lot associated with supporting mods in order to look good.
- eBay/No-name Replicas: They're cheap, sure. However the fitment is generally a nightmare, plus the carbon usually starts to discolored within six a few months. You usually finish up spending more cash looking to fix a cheap diffuser than you would have spent just buying the JDP one in the first place.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the jdp s2000 rear diffuser remains probably the most tasteful mods you can do to an AP2. It hits that sweet spot associated with being high-quality, fairly affordable (compared in order to high-end JDM imports), and visually spectacular.
It cleans up the rear end from the car, fills within the gaps around the exhaust, and gives the particular S2000 a modern edge without ruining its classic shape. Yes, the wait times could be a pain, and yes, you might need in order to do and take note work to make sure it doesn't sag, but once you see your vehicle from a rear three-quarter view with that carbon fiber shining, you'll forget just about all about the hassle.
In case you want your own S2K to be noticeable just enough in order to get a nod from the purists while still searching aggressive at the local meet, this is definitely the way to go. Just remember in order to grab some extra 3M tape and maybe the couple of mounting brackets, and you'll be good to visit.