How come the depreciation on an 02 is lower? The S does not stop depreciating or depreciate at a slower rate based on a single year difference. I would buy the newer model for maybe a little more and get a little more warrantee left. I would try to fix everything before the 3 years is up, depending on the mileage of course. But even if it is above milleage, every year model as seen some modest improvement. Some were big improvements (ie glass instead of plastic rear window.) I would go for the newer model.

 

Go for the newest one if you like them all equally.

 

$28k for an '04? Some people are getting BRAND NEW '05's for $29k. I used to live in Raleigh (Cary). I don't remember the car prices being inflated too much. You're not shopping at Carmax, are you?

Like others have said, I'd just try to get the newest one is the best condition. BTW, $27k for an '03 is way too much--even if it does only have 4500 miles.

 

well if it were me i'd go with the 02 since there are no changes between 02-03. price is much better. i personally love the ap1 engine, but it's all personal choice. not 1 engine is really "better" over the other engine. it definately isn't worth the extra 5k. just my $0.02 unless you are really wanting the ap2 over the ap1. good luck. that 24k is a really good deal on that '02 so u're definately not shopping carmax. they'd prolly ask 28k for it. and then try to buy your car you have now from you so you could add the negative equity they'd give you for it onto the price of the S, haha... i hate carmax for life.

 

Where could I get a brand new s2k for 29k???

 

all cars depreciate at a decreasing rate as the year goes on; the double derivative is positive. Thus, depreciation should be less on a 2002 model.

What I am saying is 2003-2002 depreciation is greater than 2002-2001, ans smaller still than 2001-2000, on average.