East Tennessee // Honest substitution
No S2000. The Miata is the roadster we have.
Both are Japanese RWD sports roadsters. The S2000 is more intense; the Miata is more joyful. The Foothills Parkway top-down works with both.
You searched for Honda S2000
We don't rent that. Try the 1995 Mazda Miata Base.
The Honda S2000 and the Mazda Miata are the two most celebrated Japanese roadsters of the modern era, and they're complementary rather than interchangeable. The S2000 is more demanding — high-revving naturally aspirated four that comes alive above 5,500 rpm, stiffer chassis, more focused ride. The Miata is more joyful — lighter, softer, accessible to any skill level, with a top-down character that the NA Miata perfected. For the Foothills Parkway top-down experience and the Cades Cove sunrise cruise, the Miata is the right car. For a more intense sports car experience on the Dragon's technical corners, the BRZ edges toward the S2000's territory.
Spec for spec
Aspect
Honda S2000 (what you searched)
1995 Mazda Miata
Miata vs S2000 for East Tennessee roads
The S2000's character is at its best above 5,500 rpm, where the VTEC engages and the car transforms. On East Tennessee's 30-mph Dragon and the 35-45 mph Foothills Parkway, you're driving both cars well below where the S2000 is at its most interesting. The Miata, by contrast, is at its best at exactly these scenic speeds — light, joyful, communicative in a way that doesn't require heroic commitment to access.
For a top-down sunrise cruise on the Foothills Parkway, a convertible run on the Cherohala Skyway, or a slow Cades Cove wildlife loop, the Miata is the more satisfying car. For a driver who specifically wants the S2000's high-revving sports car intensity, the Dragon is a legitimate showcase for it — but our honest recommendation is the BRZ if that intensity is the goal.
Where to find an S2000 in East Tennessee
S2000s appear on Turo occasionally — private owners of AP1 and AP2 generations list them in the Knoxville and East Tennessee area. They're rarer than Miata listings because fewer S2000s exist in rental-ready condition. If the S2000 specifically is the goal, Turo is the path.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Miata less fun than the S2000?
Different kind of fun. The S2000's VTEC intensity above 6,000 rpm is a specific experience the Miata doesn't replicate. The Miata's lightweight joyfulness and forgiving balance is an experience the S2000 doesn't replicate. Both are exceptional; they're different flavors.
Is there an S2000 on Turo in East Tennessee?
Occasionally — AP1 and AP2 S2000 listings appear on Turo in the Knoxville area. Less common than Miata listings; check Turo's Knoxville search.
Can the Miata do Tail of the Dragon?
Yes — the NA Miata is the textbook lightweight RWD manual sports car, exactly the formula the Dragon rewards. It's lighter than the BRZ and even more communicative, though slightly less powerful.
Does the Miata have enough power for mountain roads?
The 1.8L boxer makes about 130 hp. On the Dragon and Foothills Parkway at legal speeds (30-45 mph), it's more than adequate — the car is light enough that the horsepower feels appropriate.
How does the Miata's top work?
Manual — release two latches above the windshield, fold it back, snap the tonneau cover. About 20 seconds. The NA Miata's manual top is part of the experience; it's quick and easy once you've done it once.
Can I pick this up if I'm staying in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
Yes. Our pickup is near TYS in Maryville/Alcoa. From Gatlinburg it's about 50 minutes; from Pigeon Forge or Sevierville it's 40–45 minutes. Pickup at TYS on arrival and drive top-down to your destination is the move.
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The Miata's category page — the only convertible in the fleet.
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Another classic JDM sports car search — the Miata as the roadster answer.
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Foothills Parkway
The Miata's best road — top down on the south face of the Smokies.
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Miata and MR2 together — the classic Japanese sports car category.
Not an S2000. The other great Japanese roadster.