Hey everyone, my name is Carlo and I'm a new member here on the forums. I currently own a 1990 240sx that is completely stock with a blown motor, I got it about 2 months ago. I also own a scion xB thats fixed up a little. I plan on getting a s2000 in about a month or two, but I can't decide on either on the older model (save a lot of money) or get the 04+ model's with the bigger and badder engine but = more $$$. Will I be able to make way more power with the newer engine or will I be able to get just as much out of the old one. I'm a fan of hondas, but I'm not that familiar with the s2000, only civics, b16A, B18C, and especially integras since I use to own one. I'm hoping I will learn a lot from this forum and grow with it as I did with my past cars and the forums I was on. This seems like a great community!

 

Welcome! First of all, the ap2 engine isn't "badder" than the ap1's by any means. It produces slightly more torque, and IMO it's nothing you can really feel. The ap1 (2000-2003) revs to 9,000 and it's a lot more fun...but again that's just my opinion. If I were you I would save your money and buy a 2002 or 2003 with low mileage. You'll be happy in the end.

 

I've seen AP1's for around 15-18K, which is a lot cheaper then a AP2. So I could probably get as much power out of a AP1 in comparison to the AP2? I'm going to be building the car for street use, but would like to get the most out of it.

 

You could definitely get as much power. There are also a lot more parts available for the ap1 to my knowledge, and there are a lot more members on this site with more heavily modded ap1's than ap2's.

 

bigger badder engine only has 10more lbs of torque

and yes there are a lot more mods and things out for the ap1

 

Thank's for the input guys. I will now be on the hunt for a AP1! If you know anyone selling one, please let me know. I hope I can get one soon!

 

Just know what you should and will be paying for one, depending on the year. I don't know how prices are in Cali, but in NJ they are around as follows:

MY00- I wouldn't pay anymore than 16k, unless the mileage was ridiculously low.

MY01- 18k is the most I'd pay...my buddy just bought one from an Acura dealership that was asking $20,000. No matter how high that may sound, that's what many of the dealerships will be asking...DO NOT pay that.

MY02- I bought mine for 21k from a private seller, with 15,000 miles and an OEM hardtop. So if you do your research, you'll get a nice package for a low price. Bottom line, I think if you pay over $21,000 you're being ripped off.

MY03- I've actually seen a lot of deals on them...but since there was no change from 02-03...don't pay more than you think is right. I wouldn't spend over $23,000...and I know a lot of people would say that is too much.

Just keep your eyes open and look every day for new cars to pop up. Good luck