New to the site, wanted to say hello. Decided on purchasing an S2000 and needed some advice. Two choices; sweet deal on '03 model with 11k miloes for 23k or sweeter deal for '04 at 29K. Either way, I love the car. Wanted one since they came out. My question was, besides the 2.0L/2.2L difference, is it worth the extra money? Anything else "the experienced owner" would advise on? Thanks alot..by the way, the site awesome.

 

The 03 has a substantial price savings that will go for all the "little" extras to make it your personalized ride. You will discover that this toy is a money pit.

Nevertheless you will be smiling everytime you get in and put it in gear whichever way you go.

ENJOY!

 

Personally, I couldn't disagree more...

In my opinion the 04 is no more or less hardcore than the pre04. There are some differences, for which you may have a preference. The changes include the obvious cosmetic changes as well as more displacement, lower redline, and slightly tighter suspension up front, slightly softer suspension in the back, and a slightly slower steering ratio.

In the end, many people feel that Honda dumbed down the 04 for the general public. But in reality the car is just as capable (some would argue more capable) performance wise. Furthermore, the changes made are not changes that would make the "masses" desire this car any more. The S2000 designed for the masses is called a Mazda RX-8 (and the masses still aren't buying it).

As far as whether the car is more or less hardcore, I guess it depends on your definition. The car is still a rough riding car. However, my girlfriend's 00 Si has a bumpier ride than the pre04 S, so I suppose it's the most hardcore by some people's definition.

I can see where the redline and steering ratio changes are a problem for people who already own a pre04. To them, the changes make the car seem more "normal." But the car still winds high and turns in very nicely and does so with all the qualities a sports car should.

- If you pride yourself on feeling hardcore and you think a higher redline and tighter rear end is more hardcore, get the 03.

- If you pride yourself on driving one hell of a sports car for a great value, drive both and pick the one the has YOUR preferences.

As for my selection??? I too have wanted one since before they came out... I put a deposit on an 03 a week before the press releases were out on the 04s. I withdrew the deposit after seeing the press releases for two reasons: (1) I wasn't financially ready (I only put the deposit on the car to ensure I could get an 03). (2) I felt as though I needed to see what the 04s had to offer in person (after all, even though I want a brand new car, if I liked the pre04 that much, I could deal with used one.).

Am I happy with my decision??? Absolutely!!! Do I think the 04 is a better car??? In some ways, yes. But overall, not my much. In some ways I think it is a bit more refined. There is some evidence around here that it is slightly faster (but is still always a driver's race), and many feel that it handles with more confidence at the limit.

I'll be picking up an 05 here in a couple of months. No regrets.

My whole point is this... Don't buy the 03 just because you think it's more "hardcore" or more a "true sports car." The differences are too small to be stressing over. If there is a preference for one or the other, great! That's the car for you. But the 04 is absolutely no less a sports car based on any of the changes that were made.

 

thanks for the feedback, greatly appreciated. Should be driving them both tomorrow. Cant wait!!