| Text By Tamago
Photos courtesy of Honda Co (Japan) Ltd. |
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| When the word 'roadster' comes to mind, probably the first image that
pops out of the mind is the Z3. However, before James Bond was able
to retrofit his Z3 with rockets, Mazda was already selling a cheaper, yet
essentially the same, MX5 or in the US, known as the Miata. And true
enough, the roadster revolution did not start from Stuttgart or Munich,
but it all started in Tokyo. Thus, it would be proper that another
Japanese company take on the challenge to build another exciting roadster.
Enter Honda, with vast experience in Formula One and Indycar racing, they are probably the best bet to beat the road-ruling German roadsters. With the unveiling of the SSM show car in 1995, it was a clear message that Honda was dead serious about the roadster market. Three years later, Honda polishes and fixes the SSM and made a name change to is US name of SSX or in Japan, what they call S2000. Though it does not have the same level of sex appeal as that of the Boxster, it carries itself quite well. At a full head-on shot, the SSX may look like a catfish, but its three-quarter view is absolutely stunning. The lines are absolutely clean and not overdone. However, the rear end is the disappointing factor for the SSX. Large, clear brake lamps are just not right for a roadster. Shiny, twin exhaust pipes on either side of the car and sporty, mags contribute to the sporty nature of this car.  |
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