it's all personal preference.
i bought my 01 because i like having the plastic rear window(it's bigger, better visibility), i like the looks of the ap1 and i think the 9,000rpm makes it more fun to drive.

 

Big picture - the s2000 is a bit of a niche car. Raw, high-revving roadster. But within that niche, there are small variances that appeal to a wide range of the niche driver.

 

So given that over here (NZ) we can get the 9K F20C motor in an AP2 chassis with no dbw/vsc but all other updates on a 2005 model, would that make it the most alluring combination?

 

ap2s r ugly so no :-P

 

As long as its LHD.

 

Best year is personal choice.

 

I would say 03 for the "last F20C engine" argument, but i've never driven an AP1 so I don't know if I would like the lower torque but 9k redline feel. I still tell people that mine revs to 9k, it just sounds better

 

LIAR

 

The newer the better unless you're hung up on the redline. They just kept adding features and refining things as the years went by.

The CR is awesome, but less practical than the regular model, and I think the stock car rides stiff enough as it is. It is already stiff enough to force you to slow down on severely bumpy roads that regular cars can just glide over at speed. The CR sounds cool for a track-day car, but I think the regular model is the one to have for road use.

And for anyone complaining about VSC, IT TURNS OFF.

Aaaand, drive-by-wire is great, IMO. I love it on both my cars.

I guess the short answer is: it's totally up to personal taste!

 

The 9k redline doesnt add any horsepower over the ap2 which keep in mind has an 8k redline and has more torque. The ap2 after 06 with the traction and stability control has an off switch for when ever you want to spin the tires. The roll on times tested were faster due to the better mid range in the ap2. I chose the 06 after a long look hoping to pay cash ($20kish) for a decent 03 but, not finding any in very good condition in a 3 hrs radius. I also found later when I drove the 06 I liked the heavy textured feel to the leather. It felt like it would last longer. I also liked the look with the 17's and ap2 headlights. It really is ALL up to personal preference since IF you can afford a new one. If you cant then get the newest one you can afford. If for some reason you were confused by the smoke and mirrors of the 9k redline instead of the actual performance and horspower then get an 03.