04-05 have all of the best features, and all of the downsides can easily be remedied

-can reflash the ECU for higher, safe redline 8500+ totally safe
-can swap parts to allow for reflash, if desired
-softer springs nice for DD, but super simple to swap to anything else
-same with sway bars
-suffers from CDV, but it can be easily removed
-offers right colors to allow for CR parts swap without paint

things that cannot so easily be remedied
-lower displacement
-dbw throttle
-tps sensors
-plastic rear window
-two color seats (if you're not a fan)
-burning oil on earlier years
-weaker diff on earlier years

EDIT: I do have to give it to the AP1 as far as gearing, but I'd take the improved transmission over one with better gearing.

It also comes with nice wide wheels, as a bonus over AP1 - no need to go aftermarket. Plus you can get fantastic deals on them and they're usually in much better shape than the older cars.

That's JMHO but of course there are tons of opinions around here.

 

MY02 or 03

 

2002 White w/ all red interior

 

neg,

Thanks for that. I had no idea that there was a 2 liter threshold. Makes a lot of sense.

 

MY01, I own it

 

Very logical reasons (except maybe the color one for CR swap...that one is a little strange )

Couple points though...

04-05 ECU can't be reflashed...only 06+

Swapping the ap1 diff for a very marginally stronger ap2 diff is a breeze (easier than installing stiffer springs on an ap2) and costs less than a cheap set of coilovers.

 

Best year is subjective, it depends on what you're looking for. I still think MY03 is the best followed by 05.

The slower steering rack in the AP2 just killed it for me, definately not an upgrade in any form. The F22 is much smoother and drives alot better, but 9k is pure aural pleasure. Aesthetically MY04-05 owns all, especially the interior and wheels.

MY00-01 is the most enjoyable to drive and has the most "raw" feeling of any year (excluding the CR). MY03 is nearly as fun to drive and has some of the much needed improvements.

To say that every revision made on the S2000 was an improvement is foolish. Many changes were made to improve practicality and comfort, along with broadening its appeal in the market.

 

[QUOTE=ZDan,May 9 2009, 02:16 AM] Road & Track's CR, without A/C or radio, weighed 2790 lb., presumably without fuel (that's how they normally present curb weights).

 

Thanks, will check with the guy who installed my unit and the manufacturer. I want to make sure these things are reading right.

 

But you have a race-prepped S2000. Not exactly normal or applicable to most S2000 owners. Stock numbers are well known and posted by Honda.