Hello all,

I'm a prospective buyer / hopeful future owner of a used S2000 and have a couple questions. I've driven 3 so far, two 2003 S2000s and one 2005, and am seriously considering purchasing a 2004 or later used s2000-the AP2 engine is amazing! I think I've fallen in love... =)

I am currently down in Florida at home for a few weeks and looking to purchase a used S2000 here and drive it up to Chicago, where I'll be using it as my daily driver for the next 5-10 years most likely. I will probably only put in about 4 to 5k miles / year on it, but it will definitely be the only car I'll be driving and I'm a little concerned about driving in the winter with this car, being a native Floridian and all. If driving on ice is anything like hydroplaning - I guess I'll be O.K.!!!

Couple questions:

1. Tires: The city of Chicago tends to be pretty good about clearing the snow on most roads where I live (downtown for the most part), but I'm guessing I'll still need the tires just in case? Any recommendations for snow tires for a 2004 or later model? I know that they come standard with the 17" rims, however some of the cars I'm considering have 18" and 19" rims. Any tips on how to make sure that I can find appropriate snow tires for the rims, and that they'll actually fit within the wheelbase? How much would a good set of snow tires set me back in terms of cost?

2. Convertible top: How have your experiences been in driving in freezing weather with the ragtop up? Anything in particular I should be concerned?

3. Optional hard top: How necessary would it be to get one of these for winter driving? Any advice? I've seen a couple different aftermarket hard tops on Ebay from various manufacturers that are a bit cheaper than the stock Honda hard tops which I think retail around $2000, anyone have any experience with those?

4. Mileage: Some of the cars I'm looking at are of course very low miles, and some have more, in the 50-60k range; are there any specific wear and tear issues I should be concerned about depending on the mileage of the car?

5. Passenger air bag: Do any of the models have a cut off switch? My 4 year old nephew, I am anticipating, would really love to take a ride in the car, especially given his reaction to the new Speedracer movie he dragged me to on Sunday - any suggestions on making the car more kid friendly, or is he just gonna have to wait until he is 10 or 12?

Thank you guys - these forums are great, and I've been using the search function and finding out a ton of information - you guys are great.

Hopefully I will be able to repost at some point, sooner rather than later, as a proud owner!!!

Thanks in advance for your replies!

 

1) snow tires: blizzaks
2) not sure... I don't own one... YET
3) i think it would be a good idea... it prevents against theft, makes the cars ride quieter, and looks better!!
4) not sure.
5) I know some people have bought and installed a shut-off switch kit for around 150 dollars