I currently own a 2004 Mustang GT convertible and since the purchase of my 2006 Ridgeline, I have been interested in getting an S2000.

What are the years to avoid and/or look for ?
Any issues consistent with all model years ?
Any mechanical issues to be concerned with ?
This will be a weekend car and not a daily driver, and issues with storage ?
Any years with suspension improvements ?
Any clutch issues ?
How is the wind noise at speed ?

Any other info that will prove helpful will be appreciated

Thanks in advance
Tom

 

My first response is to do a search, but.....

What are the years to avoid and/or look for ? Not really, they are all good. It kind of depends on that you like better.

Any issues consistent with all model years ? 2nd gear grind, but not every car has a problem with it.

Any mechanical issues to be concerned with ? Not really that I can think of.


This will be a weekend car and not a daily driver, and issues with storage ? None. I really can't use mine a lot during the winter, soit stays in the garage a lot.

Any years with suspension improvements ? The AP2 ('04- present) has a softer suspension that many like, some do not.

Any clutch issues ? Nope, inless you plan to boost it. Even then, the stock clutch will work well as long as you don't do many drops.

How is the wind noise at speed ? Fine for me, but then I don't put the top up. With the top down, I feel it's fine.

 

there are two models: ap1&2, higher red line in the ap1, more torque in the ap2. endless diiscussion in the forum but both designs are good

an issue could be said that the car is a well integrated pkg, you have to spend alot of money to get any gains beyond the oem design.

How is the wind noise at speed ?
some of the AP1 cars, the latch assy for the top has a honda service issue, not difficult to replace and well documented this forum. if your car has this bad it is more noisy with the top up than down.

all years are very reliable.

 

AP1's are more fun ...but thats just me.

But if you're concerned about noises at higher speeds, look at the top, if it has tears or the slightests tears in it, it'll make a noise. Also another downside about the older models is the plastic rear windows, they tend to get dirty and whatnot. So if i were in your shoes, i would look for an 03 if you want to get an AP1.

 

If you're looking to buy, I think Chazmo put together a single thread on what to look for, but the big things for any year are wear spots on the top, behind each passenger in the corner, and on medium throttle constant accel with no jerkiness. Also, make sure the tires are quality and all match - people like putting cheap tires on cars they will sell, but tires are the most important part of this car imo.

 

Thanks for the info to all that responded. I apoligize for not searching the topics, but I prefer to have current opinions. Searching usually ends with old info.

I like the softer ride and the glass rear window, and I don't mind the loss of horsepower. So, I should focus my search on 2004 to present.

Thanks again.......