Recently I have been thinking about buying an S2000 year 2001 or 2002 depending on price and mileage as a track car. I been an instructor at the track for few years and I had spec E30 that I enjoyed and loved dearly. However, I had to move at one point so I sold the car. Regardless I have had an S2000 year 2001 years back and it was a beautiful car.

Some friends are trying to change my mind to a 95 or 97 E36 M3 which are great track cars however, I am leaning towards an S2000 for many reasons we all know them. My question here is

 

A large majority of your questions are looking for opinionated answers, so I'll share my opinion with you. First of all, you've owned this car already, so there's a reason you sold it. Keep those reasons in the back of your mind. Also, I would highly recommend a MY02 or MY03 over a MY01. They drive much crisper, you feel a huge difference. Now would I want an E36 or an S2000? Without a doubt I'd take an S2000 for too many reasons to list. An E46 might be another story though...

I wouldn't say that brake pads or suspension aftermarket/replacement parts are anywhere similar to a german car...I would expect a german to be much more expensive. If you track your car, you should buy top-quality, and top-quality costs money no matter what car it is. As for the hardtop, I am partial to the OEM just because I've owned one. You can't compare the fit and finish, but others would disagree. If you're using the car primarily for the track, I would recommend the lightest, cheapest hardtop you can find. Just make sure it's secure

Matt