Add another "drive both and see for yourself" reply. They will be very similar. I will say since you noted the smooth gearbox, the AP2 has carbon syncros and will shift more smoothly than an AP1.

 

either way u cant loose with any S2000

 

'06+ s2k because FlashPro.

 

Thanks for all of the honest and straight-forward replies. I will be driving an AP1 this week, maybe tomorrow, and come to my decision.

All I know is, I can't wait for the opportunity to be driving one of these cars whenever I please.

 

There's a difference between "fun" and "easy". I owned an AP1 for 6 years, then got an AP2. The AP2 is easier to drive and more comfy. The AP1 is more thrilling.

I'd probably get a low mileage AP1 if I had to do it over again. Some of the AP1s out there are thrashed, so try to test drive one in good condition.

 

I completely agree, having owned an AP1 for 5 years before trading it in on an AP2. There is just such a raw feeling to an AP1. It reminds me of my former 04 STI, compared to an 08 STI I test drove. The car became more refined, easier to drive, and better looking IMO, but I found it less thrilling.

This is not to say the AP2 doesn't give you a thrilling experience behind the wheel, but that a test drive will give you your own personal experience to make your own personal opinion and decision. If it's not going to be a DD, then an 02-03 AP1 is a nice choice, as long as you find one that's in very good condition.

 

Get an AP1

/endthread

 

I havent driven AP1, but my guess would be AP1 more fun to drive, AP2 easier to drive, AP2 is also more reliable due to many improvements Honda make over the years.

 

03' AP1. Has the engine upgrades I believe. And could be the best example of the AP1's.


A very true statement.


If You're planning to tune it's a good a reason as any.

I don't think asking which is better is a good or fair question. Many of things people have responded to are about looks, looks don't make anything "better", more desirable yes, but better? No.
What you want to know is which will fit me best and then decide the criteria by which you want to quantify your results.
I got an 03' AP1 because it fit my personality and things I wanted in a 2k.
The best of both worlds would be an AP2 with an Ap1 Engine. Some one on the boards has done it.

 

Honestly, get the newest/best condition one you can afford. I owned an AP1 for 1 year, and traded it in on a new 06 back in 2006. I haven't looked back. I've enjoyed my AP2 just as much as I've enjoyed my AP1. My main reason for trading... the looks. The AP2 just looks and feels much more updated. Plus, I got a brand new car with 3 miles on the ODO and a fresh warranty compared to an 03 AP1 w/49,000 miles and no warranty. So that was a huge perk right there.