Hey S2ki, I lurk on the forums all the time because the s2000 bug hit me and won't let go. Now after my mother and I move I will be able to purchase a new car. My friend had recommended me the s2000 a while back but never gave it much thought until I started to look into that magnificent unicorn.

Anyways lets get to business. I will be financing the car so I can only purchase it from a dealership . My budget is 15k... BUT if it was perfect and absolutely a steal then I would be willing to go to 18k.

I know that AP1 is going to be what I end up getting since all AP2's in my area are all 20k plus so that's out of my ballpark. Because AP1's are the oldest generation (lol cause theres two) i'm worried about choosing the right one. This will be my DD so I want it in a good enough condition so I can generate some income to be able to repair it.

First is the mileage, should I get a high mileage, low mileage? Now this might seem like a dumb question... but with some lurking I read a thread on "high mileage vs low" and it had some good points. A low mileage one probably was abused more because the owned went VTECH on it while maybe the high mileage one was only going to work and back.

Second is year. In my area ( Washington State ) for some odd reason, THERE ARE NO 2003 HONDA s2000's ON THE MARKET! It makes me quiver with fear and anger. Am i screwed? LOL.

 

just be patient. and because you need to finance, doesn't mean you have to purchase from the dealership. you can apply for a loan through the bank or a credit union

 

just find one where ever it is, even fly to it and drive it back...

 

I think not, there were only a few changes in the Ap1's so I would go for something with low miles, and if you are worried about the condition check the car fax. I was lucky to get a Ap1 with 17k one owner they are out there. Happy hunting

 

Unfortunately I only recently have been building my credit so i'm not sure if my credit union will allow that without a cosigner but I will look into it!

I don't really have the money to blow if the car is a dud

 

Exactly. And you can always buy out of state. Can work the shipping into the deal, or just go pick it up

And if you're worried about a "dud" get a pre-purchase inspection, may be $200-500 but well worth it in the long run

 

You don't know that until you're in the situation. You may find one at a price that would afford you to fly out and check it out. DO NOT, however, buy a car and have it shipped to you without a test drive. The price of a plane ticket is much lower than what a dud car could cost you.

Obviously, local is easier, and since you're not looking for ultra-low miles or something, you should be able to find one close to you. Do some research to form a realistic budget. ($12-15k isn't bad for a mid-mileage (60-90k+) AP1.) And then play the waiting game...

 

Keep in mind most banks and financial institutions won't finance a car over 125k miles. Age sometimes plays a factor as well depends on the bank.

 

Have you driven one?

You prepared to drive a car every day that can be unforgiving in bad weather?

You think you need to get an ap1 because of price, but do you know any banks that will finance something 10 years old or older?

 

i wouldnt worry about super low miles man...these cars are tough and will last a very long time with proper maintenance and care....i found mine for 14,900 with 60K on the ODO..2003..not a damn thing wrong with it! i was searching for a while before i found it..just jumped on it instantly..the bank financed me as well...just make sure you inspect it very well before you buy..and test drive it..get on it while your driving it also...gotta know if something is wrong