Hi all - I'd be really grateful to get some buying advice for 2000-2003 S200s in the UK. There seem to be quite a few early cars about in the 5.5 to £6.5k bracket, with usually about 90,000 miles. This fits my budget range very well (!) - apart from all the usual stuff to look for, can you give me a bit of help on the following :

1) Engine noises - at idle, is a bit of cam/lifter noise usual, or is this a bad sign?
2) Gearbox & clutch - anything to watch for here? What's the approx. life of a clutch & does the S2000 have a dual mass flywheel (which often clunk when old in other cars!)
3) Suspension - I've read the FAQ on the suspension arm bolts, but I guess that for now, as long as it drives OK on the test drive, I can worry about this at a later date if it's a problem?
4) Power roof - anything to check & watch for?
5) Bodywork - any problem areas?

As I'm buying at the bottom end of the market, I just want to make sure that I don't get stung by a really bad problem - small issues I can live with though....
From all I've heard, engines are super-reliable - just as long as the oil changes are regular!

Thanks in advance,
Pete (UK)

 

Best thing you can do is look for a local member on the UK forums and have them go with you when your ready to look and test out an s2000. You may want someone familiar with the car with you.