Inspired by Formula 1 racing, most obvious in the digital gauge cluster and big, red “Start” button on the left side of the dashboard, the Honda S2000’s no-nonsense cabin is a study in form over function. Deceptively simplistic in appearance, and clustering critical controls within easy reach of the driver’s fingertips, the S2000’s interior envelops the driver in such a way that it seems the car is saying: “Let’s not screw around. Just drive.”

Yet despite its spare design, the S2000’s interior materials are impressive, with very little hard plastic in evidence. Real aluminum, a soft-touch dash pad, rubberized control knobs, and high-quality leather upholstery dominate. Standard equipment includes a CD player, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power mirrors, and cruise control – no luxuries, but you’re not left wanting. The dealer can install headrest speakers if you like, and XM satellite radio is also available. Dual front airbags and three-point seatbelts with pretensioners are the only safety features on board, unless you count the integrated roll hoops behind both bucket seats.

An old-school single-DIN stereo head unit is hidden behind an aluminum panel embossed with “S2000.” It includes knobs for volume/power and tuning/audio settings, but the controls are buried low and deep in the dash. Honda provides handy rocker switches and buttons located immediately to the left of the steering wheel to control volume, mute, pre-set radio stations, and mode functions to handle just about anything you might want to do with the audio system. They work well, and we used them almost exclusively, keeping that slick aluminum panel closed to preserve the S2000’s minimalist ambience. Like the remote stereo controls, a simple mix of knobs, toggles and buttons located immediately to the right of steering wheel manage all climate functions.

Otherwise, the S2000’s interior is a bit difficult to use. For example, the defogger is hard to find and reach, a button completely hidden behind the turn signal stalk and steering wheel spoke. The button to activate the cruise control is right next to the defogger, equally hard to see and operate. Adjusting the power mirrors requires an uncomfortable twist of the wrist. And personally, I’m no fan of the video game instrumentation. A nice set of white-on-black analog gauges would suit me fine.

At least the switch that powers the convertible roof is easy to find in the center console. Equipped with a glass rear window and defroster, the power top and the side windows go down in seven seconds, making it easy to let the sun shine in while stopped at a traffic light. And if the weather turns foul, the Honda S2000 can be completely buttoned-up in just 11 seconds.