Hey i am a very big fan of the s2000. I am looking to buy one this summer. I have read up on just about everything, and all the specs 2.0 and 2.2

i drove a 2003 last week and it was a phenomenal experience...
........................................

Currently own a Spec-V so this will be a big step. A step that i have been waiting for for a long time.


I cant afford a brand new 2008 so i am asking for any info on WHAT TO BUY.

A cheaper 2001-2003 or the newer 2.2 17' 2004 and up

Since it is used what millage should i look for what small problems should i look for.



Basically my question is for under 25000$ what s2000 would you buy.

Also the 9000 RPM Red line is attractive on the older models and also the stifer suspension

But the newer models have the 17' but 2.2 and lowered RPM

is the increase in torque that noticeable???

 

I'd buy an 05 or 06 for that price

 

You will get 100 different answers on whether you should buy an AP1 or an AP2. Hopefully this thread doesn't turn into that debate again Basically, the AP1 is lighter, more prone to oversteer, has a quicker steering ratio, stiffer suspension, and 16" wheels (the '00 and '01 models have a plastic rear window). The AP2 is a little heavier and less raw feeling, but has more creature comforts. If your primary reason for buying the S is to have a weekend car, track toy, or just have fun on winding mountain roads, the AP1 is a good choice. Also, you will save some money that you could spend on mods. If the car will be a daily driver, or you will be doing a lot of driving in traffic, the AP2 is a better choice. The softer suspension is easier on your internal organs, the radio can actually be heard over the exhaust, and the low-RPM torque makes stop and go driving in the city easier. Small problems to ask about would be oil consumption (especially on AP1s), and how many times the car has been launched. The rear diff has been a known problem area on cars that were taken to the track frequently (or on cars that were taken to the track once by somebody who doesn't know how to drive ). Hope this helps.

 

that's pretty much it. search AP1 AP2 and you'll find thousands of threads breaking through every last detail. but the fact remains: the differences are really details. the car hasn't dramatically changed, ever. basically its more new vs less new for the appropriate amount of coin.

and if you're considering paying $25k+TTL, you can *almost* get a brand new MY07 if you're willing to drive to get it. that's how i got my 06--i kept looking for slightly less used ones, and when the price gap was only $2-3k to get a brand new car vs a 10k-20k mileage used one, i just got one new. i'm glad i did it.

it will be your first RWD car i guess? 06+ has traction control, so it can really save your behind (and your car) if you make a mistake. if you get an 05 or older, drive it safely until you find where the back end kicks out--we've heard too many "crashed my new S" stories. but anyways, it will really come down to what you want to spend.

 

You need to make your own mind up - you won't get the correct answer here. Frankly, I'm scared that you're coming from a Spec-V and want the stiffest suspension you can get.

 

Test drive one of each type and see which one you like. Then find the color you like with low miles on it.

 

Why?

Some of us like extremly firm suspensions, i.e. we don't need all sorts of creature comforts because we prefer the more pure driving experience.

 

I too came from a Spec V, had an '02 model and yes with the skyline inspired front fascia, I now own an '07 Stewie. I treat it like a gem and Vtec it several times a week. Loving the car and run it without traction control except when it rains...no snow in San Diego. I used to have it on the first month or so to get used to the car. Then started disengaging it little by little. Mines a cruiser not a track car so I went with an '07. Whichever one you decide to pick up be sure to be easy with it and maybe take one of those learning classes to know what to expect out of your car. Just take your time in learning the car. The newer ones were also designed to have more under steer in mind then the older ones also for safety. Good luck.

 

What is an "07Stewie"?

 

'07 S2000...I've seen it being called a stewie on here so many times I thought that everyone knew already, plus I like the nickname.