2wheelsand4

In the market still for another s2000. I previously owned a 2002 model. I am having trouble finding what my dream model, which is a 2002-2003 clean suzuka blue so I have expanded my options. I came across a few 2001 models in my area that are in good condition. My question is in regard to the suspension set up and transmission. I know Honda updated the suspension between the 2001 year and 2002/2003 along with stating that the transmission was "improved". Will I regret not waiting for a 2002/2003? Is the handling in a 2001 poorer than that of a 2002/2003 model?

Thanks
Luke

B serious

There are lots of threads about this. The 02-03 have the most rear biased spring rates, IIRC...but a smaller sway bar compared to a 00-01.

I have a 00-01. It will definitely oversteer a bit too much...but that's true for any year AP1.

I doubt there's any appreciable difference in handling between 00-03 models. Especially on the street. You might notice a tiny difference on the track. But there's no evidence showing that 02-03's are any faster than 00-01's, inherently.

There is a huge difference in handling when you drive an AP2, however.

s2000Junky

00-03 trans are identical.

spring rates and sway are easy to change out, and at min cost since many are unloading the oem stuff after moving to aftermarket coilovers and sways. So that shouldn't be a selling consideration really. What should be are more concrete design changes in the drivetrain such as the rear end, trnas and engine, all of which have notable improvements.

I own an 01, but if I had to do it again I would likely go with an 04-05 since the bulk of whats easily not changed comes on that car to start with. After 12 years of ownership and much trials and tributes and modifications, I essentially have an ap1 chassis with ap2 drivetrain. Factory 01 front sway and factory ap2 rear sway. Rest of car is aftermarket.

If your dead set on an ap1 I would try and find an 03. There were a few minor refinements/changes starting in 02, but the most notable being the updated oil banjo bolts that supply oil to the skirts of the pistons for better cooling. This revision was done sometimes in mid 02 year, but unless you look up the serial number you are 50/50 on if you got them or not.

s2ka

If your dream is a Suzuka Blue S then wait it out, they pop up fairly frequently. Suzuka wasn't offered in 00-01.

The changes from 00-01 to 02-03 are numerous but nothing major. The condition of the car would be far more important to me than a bunch of little design tweaks.

https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/599...001-2002-2003/

2wheelsand4

Appreciate it fellas.

Apex1.0

When I started looking, I had to have a late ap1. I thought the differences were important, but in the real world mileage and condition became much more important. I drove many s2000 including some ap2. After about six months of searching, I said what the hell and looked at a low mile my2000. Nice older gentleman and the car was kept near perfect. I don't know what driving a brand new s2k is like but from my experience this car was the closest I have come.

I bought it and have not regretted it for a second. Things like the silver dash and single floor mat post become meaningless. There are a couple of niceties with the 02-03 and I have addressed some of them.

The factory tweeters are nice, but I upgraded the whole system and added door tweeters that look factory.

If you are running stock I belive the later ecu runs a little better so I swapped to the 02-03 processer.

At first I was not sure about the plastic window. I smoothed it using the hot water trick and plexus mad it as clear as a glass window. At this point I don't think I would choose the glass window if I could. The meager weight savings is worth it to me.

Bottom line if you want an ap1, I would look at any year and let condition and color make your decision.

Good luck