Hi, Im new to the forum. I'm 20 and based at charleston AFB. I currently own a 2002 subaru Impreza WRX, but i am selling it to buy a used or new honda s2000. I have been reading around the forum about the car, but i would like to know is there anything wrong with these cars, problems etc. Like my wrx has a tendency to break the transmission if you push the power over 300 hp at the wheels. Do these cars have any promblems with large amounts of hp? Can both the 2.0 and 2.2 handle well with tuning? Does any part of the car wear much faster than the rest? Would you buy a new or used? Responses are much appreciated.

 

The stock rear diff can't handle much (safely) over 350 WHP and the stock clutch can be a problem too at those output levels. Getting near 400 WHP, the tranny has been known to blow a gear.

ps. Don't think this belongs in UTH, so moving to S2000 Talk. You'll get more views there.

 

To really get a good answer you would have to lurk about on these boards for quite a while before buying. If, however, you are in a hurry, I will toss you my 2 cents.
Most posts lead me to believe the car holds up pretty well to enthusiastic, yet sensible driving. Treat it like a high-revving canyon-carver and it should last. Beat it like a Camaro at every light and you might have some problems. Most problems, and I believe them to be few in numbers, start at the tranny and go back. Abusive shifting might get you damaged synchros and launches (if not done properly) are tough on the diff and can toast the clutch. There have been posts of clicks and groans from the back that can be traced to axle nuts and c-v joints, among other things, but I suspect these are few considering the total number of cars out there. Outside of that it seems pretty well put together. Great engine, capable brakes, awsome headlights, nice interior (weak stereo ), decent paint (some claim it is a bit fragile), pretty good top (although it needs to be carefully inspected), and super-sticky OEM tires. Honda is all about precision and if you treat it like a precision tool (or get one from someone who has), using it for the type of driving it was designed for, you will probably enjoy it.

All this is from a lurker perspective as I am still a few months out from purchase myself, so take the opinion for what it is. As for mods and firsthand experience, I defer.

Oh, and that xviper fella, listen to him, he and many others here know this car very well. You have come to the right place.

Good luck.

 

What about the 2.0 and the 2.2. I know the 2.2 has a lower peak power band and more torque. But is the 2.2 that much better?

 

It looks cool (front and rear bumpers and lights), has bigger wheels, improved suspension and has a little more low-end torque! I like'em!

But I also love my 03' as well.

 

Oh yeah, I used to have a 2002 Subaru WRX. I wasn't impressed with it (too much bodyroll, no high-end boost, low boost each gear after 1st). I sold it after six months and went through a few other cars before buying the S2K. I love it!

It's the one car that I can say is "slightly" more fun than my ITR. However, if I did things over again, I would have never sold my ITR, and I would have bought the S2K as a second car.