Ride Quality
The TEIN MonoFlex suspension was a surprise for us, with suspension compliance and a comfortable ride that we weren't expecting from a JDM coilover equipped with such stiff springs and low ride height. It floated over sharp bumps and rough patches with ease, although the body could use more control and a faster steering response. Despite being in plain view, we refrained from hitting random buttons on the EDFC in-cockpit damping adjuster. Compared to older aftermarket suspensions we've driven (TEIN included) which were needlessly harsh and incorrectly damped, it's great to see the direction the industry is headed. Real performance is on many companies' minds now and the time that TEIN spent in US-based R&D shows in these dampers.
On-Track Behavior/Lap Time
To be fair to the guys from TEIN, they got hosed on the running order. The track was covered in a thick fog when we arrived in the morning. We pushed the schedule back by two hours, hoping it would burn off, but with precious minutes disappearing we had to get going. Both the TEIN car and the stock S2000 had to compete on a cold surface that may have had some dew left on it. Shortly after, the sun hit, providing consistent air and track temps for the rest of the day. Still, the TEIN car's balance was near perfect. Positive steering feedback made hanging the tail out comfortable through Buttonhook and Cotton Corners. Mild aerodynamic push limited speeds through Talladega, but it was still within one mile an hour of the KW car there. As tempting as it was, the remote damping controller was left untouched to keep things fair. The TEIN S2000 came with a Back Yard Special seat bracket that dropped the stock driver's seat by 20mm, a noticeable difference that helped with driver comfort.
Damping Quality
Possessing a soft and smooth ride, the TEIN Mono Flex system could have used more mid-speed damping, as it had a slight floating feel on the street. The need for more low- and mid-speed damping extended to the track, where it felt slow in the tightest transitions. The car also displayed a tendency to understeer, but was forgiving to drive. TEIN noted that this car was set up to be replicated by any consumer and designed to be used by drivers of all skill levels, thus the choice of a more conservative rear alignment. Still, this was probably the most receptive and easy car for the average or novice track driver to handle.
Modifications
Peak Power: 204whp @ 8300rpm
Peak Torque: 136lb-ft @ 6500rpm
Weight: 2786 lbs (49.2/50.8)
Model Year: 2000 (AP1)
Engine Code: F20C
Engine Modifications: Fujitsubo RM01A cat-back exhaust (dual exit), J's Racing Intake, header, Okada Projects Plasma Direct
Chassis: Front tower bar, Spoon Sports front cross-beam bar (four-point), rear cross-beam bar (two-point.)
Suspension (other): J's Racing roll center adjuster, T1R rear bumpsteer kitBrakes: StopTech rotors, Ferodo DS2500 pads, StopTech SS Lines, Motul RBF600 brake fluid
Wheels: Enkei RPF1, 17x9 +45mm (F), 17x9 +45mm (R)
Tires: Continental ContiSportContact 3, 235/40/17 (F), 255/40/17 (R)
Body: Veilside front lip spoiler, J's Racing rear wing (set at flat angle), OEM hardtop
Interior: Back Yard Special driver's-side low-position seat bracket