Hey guys,

My name is Sean. I live in North Hollywood, CA. I've been doing a lot of thinking and research and have decided that I want to buy an S2000. This has been building up for a while now, and isn't an impulse buy. I just love the car since it came out. I've been saving up my cash and should have enough for one within a few months. I was looking at models from 00-03 because that's about as much as I can afford. Plus, I love the redline

I wanted to know your opinions on AP1 v. AP2. Also, what is the service schedule for the AP1? Are there certain things I should look for when buying an S2K? Does anyone have any experience with traffic violations when driving a red car? I've heard so many mixed reviews about color.

Thanks!

 

Welcome...thus far I'd say you made a good decision . Opinions of new vs. old are going to be extremely diverse on this board but I think the majority of us would rather have an AP2 just for the newer updates in the car, and for some other reasons. I personally had a 2002 model and I loved the way it drove, more than a 2000-2001 or an AP2. If you can afford one I'd say to go that route. You can always make the car look like an AP2 if you prefer that exterior for relatively cheap. Good luck

 

Test drive to determine your preference.

It's not as big a deal as it is made out to be. Yes, flashy colors are more likely to be noticed but odds aren't a guarantee. If you drive in a manner that draws attention that's more likely to get you in trouble than color. I drive a Rio and I don't get tickets more often with it than I did before I owned it.

 

My fav thread on things to look for:

https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=590849

A few items deserve specific mention, as any can be budget-busters. First are tires, make sure the tread is good or figure in the cost of new tires into your purchase price. Second is the top - prone to rips if not taken care of, be sure to take a good look at it. Third is insurance, wise to give your agent a call to see what this car would potentially do to your premiums.

Regarding NFR attracting attention, I haven't noticed it but then again, I'm not out playing racer-x either. Good luck.

 

[QUOTE=common reactor,Sep 14 2009, 04:47 AM]Welcome...thus far I'd say you made a good decision .

 

Biggest dif is a glass rear window on MY02/03 vs plastic on MY00/01. Also, the interior has some tweeks, like a leather console vs carpet.

 

Can anyone here do a carfax check for me? There's a clean '00, but it's priced right at "excellent" on KBB and his price is firm.

Should I consider a '00 with about 45K miles, or wait for one that's newer. Mileage is a big issue for me.

 

VIN is: JHMAP1149YT000529