I realize the subject appears dramatic, but here it goes.

I put a $500 deposit down on a '05 S2000 (that was already in stock) but I'm having 2nd thoughts. I have been searching this forum a TON and I'm a bit worried about making the purchase. I'm not sure if they will give my deposit back though.

Q: It seems quite a few folks have had issues with the top tearing, developing holes, or just plain leaking. I have no garage and park outside. Are these problems the 'norm' or just a few isolated events? I realize the '00/'01 models had more problems, but I've read about folks with '04/'05 models having issues also.

Q: Does the soft top require a lot of attention to keep in good shape? I don't mind washing, but this is a daily driver for me...not a garage queen.

I'm between this car an a '06 350Z Coupe. I'm not hung on a convertible, but I think it would be nice. I'm torn...please help.

 

I have an '01 DD. I do not have any issues with my top, and live with or fix any of the small things that have popped up. Owning an S is a cake walk.

 

I picked up an '04 with 15K miles on it back in March. Now, it's got 20K miles, and I haven't had a single problem with it. Top still looks great, haven't done anything beyond washing it. And putting in an entirely new audio system, but that's another story.

The car is a daily driver, parked outside during the day, but garaged at night. I also live in Southern Cal., so that's pretty much the ideal environment for a car. I was actually excited this week, as it was the first time I ever drove the car in a rain. I'd heard that S2Ks are bad in the rain, but I didn't find it any worse than any other car. Of course, I guess if you're used to screaming around corners (which you will do a lot in an S2K), I can see how that would get you into trouble in the rain.

Screw the Z. Get the S. You'll be happy.

 

.......what he said !

 

i park outside , as long as the car is in the shade i think you will be fine
iv owned my car for 3.5 years and there is no harsher climate than kuwait....and the top is in good shape
i think you are worrying too much...youll not regret this after you have your first top down drive
good luck

 

I bought my MY05 in Dec. It's my only car. I have a garage, but at work I park in the sun and rain. The top is fine, though it started fading a bit until I but some raggtop protector on it (see wash and wax forum for other products).

I test drove the 350Z before I bought my S; the S2000 is much more fun!

 

u kidding me right? afraid of top???
you won't have problem with top cuz you will never see it up.

 

I have an 03' and no issues with my top. I live in Northern New Mexico and park my car outside in the elements. It snows in the winter and is real nice and hot in the summer. Again, no issues. I honestly think the Z would be more comfortable in diverse weather but nothing beats the top down. Heck, even in the 50's I've had it down with the heater on my feet. It really is a blast. You can also buy a hardtop for the winter months if it's that important to you. Both choices are good cars though, so don't be negative. You may regret wichever car you get so change your state of mind and enjoy whatever you get.

 

Buy the Z. There's a million of 'em out there. Hey, you'll blend in..

 

Ditto on what everyone else said. Mine's an '04 model, is 16 months old with 24k miles on it. It spends most of it's time outside. The top looks brand new. All you do is give it a good washing every now and then, apply a good UV protectant (303 or Raggtopp seem to be prefered) and go enjoy the car.

Drive Safe,
Steve R.