Just a question, its not a AP1 vs AP2 thread but I'm in the market for a used S2K prior to 06 and have discovered that the prices of ap1s are only 2-3k cheaper than 04-05s. Even with twice the mileage, it seems like the AP2 is a bargain while AP1s seems still pricey. I found a perfectly used 05 with 19k for 20,995 while a 03 with 30k is priced almost identical. This was almost the case for all the used S2Ks. Anyone know why this may be? Thanks.

 

Market variances. People put different value on the same item.

Color and interior (i.e. more rare red/black interior) can be a part of this too. Also condition, mods, service done, and people's attachment to the car. Some people want to sell it and will post a lower price to do so. Other people are selling, but dont REALLY want to, so they put it at a higher price to justify themselves. "It was for sale but no one bought it, I guess I'll just keep it".

 

Thanks, I understand all those factors you've noted matter in the pricing, but for a second I had thought AP1s may be in higher demand than AP2s.

 

Lets not even start.

 

^^ lol here we go.

 

It's an asymptote.
The number of young buyers that can purchase a $12-15k vehicle is much higher than people buying a $25k one as a "toy."

And the people who can afford one as a toy may choose to get an AP1, strip it, and use the leftover money on modifications.

There's not much demand for a used, $27k convertible in this economy.

 

that sounds like the story of me buying mine. The guy's wife was making him sell it. He even came up with excuses for why he couldn't take the damn check.

 

Remember, every year there are more and more used S2000s on the market. All used cars are competing against all other used cars. Since there isn't much difference between any S2000s, the existence of cheaper older cars pulls down the price of the newer cars.

Welcome to the world of "commodities".

 

It's winter time, and the economy just stinks right now. People just cannot afford a toy ride like a S2000. and the prices will drop even faster next year, as economy will slow down even further and gas prices keep increasing.


But you're right, you can get a 05 with less than 20k miles for under $19k anytime. and the high prices on AP1s are often from private sellers, who are a bit delusional..

 

Newer vehicles see a higher percentage hit for the first few years then level off a bit. Most vehicles lose 40-50% value in the first 3-4 years of their life, the S seems to have fantastic residual value, in particular the longer you hold it. Unlike a lot of other vehicles, in particular in this price range, there is a more significant "reward" for low miles and extra clean condition. One of my friends looked at a 01(or 02, I can't recall) yellow S2k with a low miles(25k) a few months ago and the granted it was clean, but the guy wanted $18.9k for it, and he got it, just not from my friend.