I've discussed this on the main board, but thought I'd see what my fellow Arizonans think.

I'm seriously considering buying a new Yellow 2003 S2000 from Arrowhead Honda. The deal I've got worked out with them is invoice price for the car. They don't seem to have any crazy add on fees, so that is good.

A lot of people on the main forums said that is too much to pay for an '03, but here in AZ, I don't exactly see people giving them away for any less than that.

I have a few concerns. What is the theft rate on the S2000 like in AZ? I've had a del Sol with the B16A3 engine in it for the past 4 years, and had no problem, and had a soft-top convertible before with no major problems (The radio was stolen, but that's what happens when you park in an empty lot by ASU overnight... Luckily they didn't cut the roof).

I'm a little concerned because I don't live in the best part of town... Although it is okay. I live in an apartment, and will have to park it in the underground garage, where everyone else parks. It is gated, and the gates do work better than most apartments, but I think the car would still be a bit of a target. That being said, I park next to a 3 series BMW, a brand new G35 coupe, a new Jag, and many other nice cars (And a dalorian).

I would probably only be parking it here, and taking it to work, which is Luke AFB, and my only concern with that is that I'll have to park it out in the sun every day. How do the tops hold up in AZ, and what does it cost to get it replaced?

Thanks for any advice/tips.

Jesse

 

I say it's worth it if it makes you happy. I know many people who paid over MSRP when the cars came out. The only other way to check out the value here is to go to another car dealer with one and see what they want or what they will deal.

Looks like Doc gave you all of the other information in your other thread.

 

get it. =D

 

Probably the best way to tell if they are giving you their best price is to just walk away and if they aren't giving you the best, they will stop you and say something along the lines of, "What do I need to do to get you in this car today."

 

JesseB:

I was happy with the way I was treated at Arrowhead when I got mine there back in '01. Keep checking around, though, since the market has definitely changed since then.

If you are going to park your car outside every day, definitely invest in a car cover. The top should hold up fairly well if it is covered regularly.

 

Jesse:

If you ask me, invoice is a pretty decent deal on a brand new MY03 (I had to beat the bastards DOWN to STICKER for my 02). Most likely though, it's worth more to them at this point to get rid of it so you may want to keep working them over a little. That being said, you might only save another few hundered so it's up to you.

Keep in mind, whether or not you're surrounded by nice

 

Get the car cover for the sun, insure againest damage and theft, and have mucho fun!!

 

Hey Jesse,

I had all your same concerns but mine has been fine. I, personally, don't remember hearing about a stolen one. Besides what has already been mentioned:

Your del Sol is probably a bigger target than the S. My friend had one, NOT in good shape, but sure enough - stolen last year, from her home. Seems they're now worth more in parts since production has ceased.

When parking your new baby, don't leave inviting stuff in view and keep the radio hatch closed. Sounds simple but it may keep away the punks. Seat locks might be a wise addition later. Walkabt's right, the joy sure outweighs any price. Just get it and have fun.

 

I would make them go below invoice. It is an 03 yes, but the 04's are already out. Not to piss any of my fellow board members off, but wholesale on an 03 right now is roughly $25k. I would make them go into "hold back" and if they really want to move the unit, they will sell it to you below invoice. You might also consider get a used 03 that is certified. If you aren't putting any money down, or trading anything in, I would definitely tell you to get gap insurance from the F&I guy. It will cost you about $300 and then you won't have to worry about any inequity in the event the car is totalled in an accident, or is stolen, and not recoverd. Good luck on your purchase.

 

Can always check out autotrader . com for prices in the area and Edmunds. com. Everything is negotiable. Is this the dealer's invoice price or sticker price? Haggle, haggle.
If they let you walk, you may not be able to go any lower.
Once the price is set, make sure it is not inflated in the financing contract and the numbers are correct. Even with administrative or corporate discount, most car dealerships are not willing to actually show you what their invoice price is for the car. Can usually knock it down $4000-$6000 if it is new in this price range, but not as much room w/ S2000's because of supply/demand.
Saw a yellow S2000 today in front of (? dealership) on Hayden in Scottsdale airpark, around area of Costco. There is more than one for sale.