Hello to all I am new to this board and will soon be purchasing a 2002 S2000. I was hoping some of you could provide me with some feedback on your own experiences purchasing an S2000.

First off what is a good starting price to begin negotiations at? I have emailed a few dealerships in the area and have received some satisfying first quotes but being a college student I need to get the price as low as I can.

Second, what is everyone's favorite color? How hard is it really to keep the black in good condition? Does the clearcoat gather swirl marks rather easily? Is it possible to special order a Grand Prix White with black seats?

Third, what are the best "first" mods to do to the car as far as chassis stability? Were you pleased with the vehicle at stock or did you perform anything? I do plan to leave the engine as is.

I apologize for such a newbie post as I am sure some of you have answered these questions many times. I REALLY appreciate anyone that takes the time to answer these questions. Hopefully I will be on the roads in the next few weeks.

Take care all.

 

A couple of answers:

-- Chasis stability: the car is very rigid, stock. If you feel that you need something, go with one of the X-braces (Spoon, Import Development or the very nice DiGrappa brace that is currently on sale). Most owners don't think that the strut tower brace does much; one or two very knowledgeable guys do think it helps...so go with the x-brace first.

-- I considered the car near perfect, stock. My favorite mods are the Voodoo knob, the front bumper protector (my driveway is a b*tch), and the AEM CAI.

-- The best color is obviously Spa Yellow Pearl. Black is very nice when kept perfect (benlaviegne has a beautiful black), but that is a tough job.

I think an excellent, cost effective first mod is a performance alignment. For $60, you can improve the car's handling and feel, in an hour.
Tanq

 

First off, you should be able to pay MSRP or slightly less if it is a cash transaction (meaning no trade-in). If you are going to trade something in, the price can be anything the dealer (or you) want, you'll just eat it on the trade.

As far as first mods go; you should enjoy the car stock for awhile first. The frame is very stiff stock and the only cross bracers I know are big autocross fans. CAI is a popular mod, but since you're in college, you may want to consider the effect of other mods on your warranty. Money can get tight toward the end of college.

Get one and enjoy it!!!

 

You should certainly be able to do MSRP -- check the board listing of MSRP dealers first. Don't be shy about calling around a fairly wide area if you don't get a quote close that's what you want. Heck, the drive home can start the process of getting you to your VTEC days!

Black -- beautiful if kept spotless and well and often waxed. Otherwise, looks like you don't take care of it.

Suspension Mods -- new sound system. Seriously, the car is very tight right out of the door. Drive it a while before doing any serious mods. I really don't think you'll need any at all.

 

Thanks for the responses so far fellas.

So far the best offer I have received is $500 below MSRP. I am going to hold out a bit longer and see in I can get it for around $30k. You'll think if I pay cash, which I intend on doing, that I will receive a better price?

I am either going with black/black or silver/black and I think I am going to spring for that hardtop because it looks so damn good.

 

[QUOTE]
Originally posted by Tanqueray
[B]-- The best color is obviously Spa Yellow Pearl.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by honda606
[B]Thanks for the responses so far fellas.

 

Thanks again for the feedback. Going today to test drive both the S2000 and the Prelude. I REALLY want the S2000 but am trying to way the options of efficiency.

 

I had a 4 wheel steering Prelude before my S2000 -- a good car. Practical, speedy, and handled well. But not at all interesting, I'm afraid.

Also, be aware this is the last year for the Prelude -- my understanding is that it's being discontinued. Too bad, IMHO

(and this post puts me in 2nd gear!!!)

 

Welcome aboard. Good luck with your quest to find the right automobile.