Hey everybody,

I've been lurking here for a month or two, and am now in the market for an '02-03 s2000 (preferably in black or silverstone) I've found an '02 local to me with 33k miles on it, and he's asking ~$21k for it. He says that it has the 7yr/100k warranty, spoiler package, and has had the softtop replaced recently. He's got all service records too, and says that the car has no dings or scratches on it. I'm gonna go check it out this week, but was wondering if you guys think his asking price is fair? Thanks in advance and I look forward to meeting some of you,

-Kenji

 

Kenji,

Best of luck with your hunt. I don't think that's a bad price, though I think you could do better. If the owner is original and all the service records are available, I think that's worth something (IMO). You could probably offer a grand less and compromise.

See if you can get a carfax done on his VIN; that's usually good for some peace of mind. Also, ask him if / when he did his spark plug recall.

 

Thanks Chazmo,

I took a look at the car tonight, and everything seems to be pretty much perfect. He's an older guy, and has taken excellent care of the car. CARFAX reflects this as well. No dents or scratches in the paint (just lots of swirls--it's a berlina), and he has all service records. The interior is flawless, and the convertible top was replaced 6 months ago due to a tear. Tires have about 80-90% tread left too. He won't budge on the price because that is his payoff amount on his loan(he originally leased the vehicle and then purchased it). I think I can do a little better price-wise if I keep looking, but at the same time, I haven't found an '02 that's in better shape. Decisions decisions....

 

Hmmmm...

It looks like there is yet another enthusiast changing into an owner

Good luck with your search

 

Well, heck... Do it. If you love the car, and it's the color you want, jump on it.

FYI, black is very tough to take care of. If it speaks to you then great, but be prepared to spend more time detailing the car than you would with other colors.

Best wishes.

 

I know... I own a black car right now It can be a pain to keep clean, but once it is, it's pretty jaw-dropping. If all goes well I'll have the car by the end of this week...

 

haha. funny, i could have written the same post, on the same car, and said the same things. except i ended up buying it. was there anything in particular you found that made you hesitate, other than the price?

he really did end up owing what was left financed, based on the payment coupon my credit union needed. his reasoning was, if he had to sell it less than what he owed, he'd just keep it. so there wasnt any use bargaining anything. at least it came with a car cover and full factory record.