I was gunna buy that, but then stupidly decided not to.

 

yea I shouldn't have passed on the ap2 because of the red int. I didn't know anything about these cars at the time. It was the first one I drove. I live in des moines Ia. and we never have any for sale around here. usually not even one in the whole state. I have driven a 2003, and i liked it, however I liked the ap2 a little better, no because of cosmetics, but in actual drive.

 

I'll save time and just say that none of your concerns are anything to worry about. Even VSA can be switched off completely. Buy the newest one you can get.

 

Generally this is good advice but with the S2000, older models that have been well cared for are a better value (what you get for what you pay).

Example:

2002 S2000 with 55,000 miles, one owner, always garaged, babied, well maintained, never driven in snow, rain, never in any accident
~$12,000

2007 S2000 with 68,000 miles, 3 owners, questionable history, Some body damage that has been repaired but looks good now and didn't show in carfax, etc.
~$17,500


The AP1 would be a better buy in this case IMHO. Also insurance will be lower on the older model and it should last just as long as the car that is 5 years newer.

 

partially true, but still consider the 00-01. It had the hardest suspension, which a race car driver like you might appreciate. Also, most 00-03 AP1s will be needing new tops - the 00-01 might have upgraded to glass tops which IMO is the only real deal breaker.

 

If you don't want the lightest-weight, stiffest-sprung (outside of the CR) S2000, then yeah, skip the '00/'01...

We all know the '01 is the ideal, it has the ONE "upgrade" over the '00 model worth having: a clock.



For true, though, the plastic rear window is pretty craptastic. Cloudy and prone to cracking/splitting. I replaced my top (which had a couple of tears as well) with a glass-window Robins. As have a number of other '00/'01 owners, so even if you won't have a plastic window, there are still early AP1's out there that might be for you.

 

Find one with a hardtop.

 

I find it funny that you have a "Top Always Down signature gif and yet give this advice.

 

Convertibles always sell for higher in the spring and summer time. Best prices are usually in fall and winter.

Go with a car you can test drive and have checked out. I like to think 05 is the best year (full upgrades minus DBW and VSA), but I am partial to what I have, but any year S2000 is worth having!!

Check this link out for hints on what to look for when buying:
https://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=775801

Stay in the hunt until you find the color combo you want. Good luck!!!

 

Funny thing.I'm partial to my 06' model for the same two reasons you listed. Of course minus the pesky air pump.