AP1 or AP2 long drive / commuter king?
 

Hi all!

I'm new here, I have been reading this site for hours! I looking to replace my 11 civic with something fun. I have a 30min commute one way. I was able to test drive an AP2, but not AP1.

I would also use this car for long road trips 4-6 hours.
Which would be a better pick AP1 or AP2?

From what I've learned in my short time here, the AP2 is supposed to be more driver friendly.

AP2 will be better for every day driving, especially around town; it has a little more power on the low end.
I daily drive an 01 but I don't have any complaints really.

Once thing I will mention is that in late 2002 they changed the oil banjo bolts (4 squirters compared to 2 if I'm not mistaken). Basically what I'm saying is that an AP2 would be better suited for your long drives, especially if it's interstate driving.

Not to mention the AP2 has VSA, and the AP1 doesn't.

Thanks! Yes, the engine oil supply was a concern.
Yes, it will be a combo of backroads and highway.

I forgot about VSA, that will be very helpful to keep it under the limit. I have a car that a track and autoX. So I want something fun but not turned up to 11 all the time.

How does the cruise control work? Is the later DBW better?

2006 and up has the VSA, 04-05 do not even though the 04-05 are still AP2

I commute everyday in my AP1 and I have no complaints. I actually look forward to the commute because it's such a fun car to drive.

Longest drive I had was a 3 hour drive. I really enjoyed the drive. However my wife was uncomfortable the whole trip. I realize this car is all about the driver. Every passenger that got in only complains about how uncomfortable the drive is.

Yea, thats a concern the passenger will hate it…

Does anyone have an the 04-05 vs 06+ cruise control / DBW?

I know these are lame questions, but 75% of this car will be commute and only 25% fun.

I'm not really sure what you're asking.. cruise works just fine on a non-DBW car. I'm sure it's slightly more precise on DBW, but I had an 01 and it worked without fault.

Yeah, that's all I'm asking if on the AP1 it was an after thought and didn't work well.

Hello theredone,

I actually did the same...I traded in my 2011 LX-s for a 2008 S2k. I test drove both AP1 and AP2...and if you are going to use it as a daily commute I would recommend the AP2 as it is a bit more refined for driving in stop and go. The long distance drive would be fine for both AP1 and AP2 (AP1 probably a bit more fun in an open twisty road). I also think it is a matter of personal opinion, budget and what you are really looking to get out of it. My friend has an AP1 and its a blast to drive with that 9k redline...until you hit traffic. Anyways, this is a personal opinion and please test drive both so you get a feel for them preferably back to back. Good luck in you car hunt!