I can't decide if I want to get an S2K, or keep my Trans Am. I love the monster torque the TA puts down, and I've heard that the S2000 really lacks in that department, however, a few months ago I was smoked by one on the interstate.

I was like "This 4-banger just sucked the paint off my door!" After that I did a lot research on them, and I've been reading the board for weeks (ChrisD, 334rwhp awesome!) But I can't decide if I want seriously mod my TA or just get an S2k... any unbiased opinions are welcome.

Thanks!

 

Take a long test drive in one. That should make your mind up pretty quick.

 

The two cars are so different. You're not comparing like with like at all. The torque is a much overrated problem IMHO, unless you're into street drag racing and trying to compete with performance machines with bigger engines. Maximum BHP comes at over 8K revs in each of 6 gears, and therein lies the thrill and challenge in keeping it in the rev range. It's either your bag or it isn't! You really need to beg borrow or otherwise acquire a go in one, to make your mind up, but be careful, you're liable to be utterly seduced.

Don't you know anyone who'll take you for a spin??

 

A supercharger should help.

 

These are two cars you really can't compare. If all you care about is straight line speed, keep and mod your TA. But if you are into backroad/track racing and enjoy hanging a car out around corners then test drive the s2k. The difference in torque between the two cars is comparable to the difference in handling. Fbodies stick to the corners well enough, but they don't even begin to compare to the agility, precision, and just plain fun that a s2000 has in the corners. Not to mention the brakes are SIGNIFCANTLY better as this car stops on a dime with total composure and with little complaint.

Imo, the only thing that the TA has over the s2000 is torque/hp and room. The s2000 does everything else a car has to do better. But you have to test drive it to make sure it's for you. Torque is an issue, especially coming from a TA, but the s2k has 6 VERY close ratio gears to make sure power is only a downshift (or 3)away. I personally like going into a corner, heel/toe braking to second gear at ~5000 rpms and hit the apex rolling out of a corner at 9000 rpms.... Thats what the s2000 is about...

 

The S2000 is as close to a sport bike with 4 wheels as you will find. I agree you definately need a drive. If that doesn't convince you then you shouldn't get one.

 

I've always been a believer that if you have to ask yourself (or others), then the S2000 probably isn't for you... it's very unique in it's characteristics, and if you question whether it's what you want, they probably will drive you crazy later... supercharge the TA and be happy.

 

I had a '94 6 sp. Z28 that was lightly modded. Great powertrain, but the rest of the car (interior by Tonka, HUUUUGGE doors, live rear axle) let a lot to be desired. I'd never consider another F-body now that I can afford better. If the S2000's torque isn't sufficient for you, maybe a C5 Vette would be a good option?

 

I don't know anyone around Mobile with an S2000, any of you all near here? I like the twisties as much as I like straight-line performance. One other concern I have is that I don't know the F20c that well, but I know the LT1 top to bottom.
I appreciate the input, I think I'll stick with my TA for now and get an S2000 in a few years. Will honda still be making them in '04-'05?

Thanks again.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by BadAzTA
[B] I think I'll stick with my TA for now and get an S2000 in a few years.