Hi - After many years as a vintage car guy, I have decided to change gears and find a fun (and reliable) convertible. I have always liked the S2000, and it's a top candidate to be my new purchase. I've had multiple Honda Accords in the past, and my current daily driver is a Pilot.

However, I don't really know anything about the strength or weaknesses of S2000s. Would you mind helping me with your opinions on what's the best year, a preferred package - or what to avoid? I don't really know what current prices are either...

Thanks for any advice! Dickson

 

You're trying to start trouble right? We regularly debate the strengths and weaknesses of the various years almost non-stop

What are you looking for in a sports car? The honda S2000 is one of the better 2 seat roadsters in the under 30K territory for power to weight ratio, fit and finish, reliability, and handling. It's a car that can be daily drivin and still be competitive on in autocross and on the track. It's got fairly good 1/4mile and 0-60 times, but really isn't meant for stop light races, unless you launch by dumping the clutch at high rpm. The used market starts at about 15K and runs up into 30K (29K-32K) for new. The rest you can get from the FAQ. But basically 2000-2003=AP1 higher redline (9000K) raw neutral balance, sketchy at the limit for some drivers. 2004-2008 AP2 lower redline, more torque, less raw, balance neutral, leaning toward understeer, more stable. Then in 2008 the S2000 CR, which is a marketing gimic with a smurf blue wing.

 

If I were you, I'd try to find a 2005. That's a great year with great color options. Also, they changed the car significantly in 2004 (too many changes to mention, but a slight bump in displacement and increased torque, which a lower redline are the highlights.)

You should be able to find a car in the low to mid $20k range from a private seller.

The main problem with the car so far is top wears. It can get holes. Just look at the creaes really good, inside and out, when you are shopping around

 

Buy new and don't over think the purchase. Just do it. There are no options (currently).
Do you like and trust Honda's?
Do you want a fun little top down ride?
Do you have something else to haul the family and stuff in?

If the answer is yes to all three - buy the car.


















Just one man's 2 cents

 

Gosh, he did say his other car is a Pilot.










jk

Honestly, it depends on what you like, if you want a more raw experience, I'd suggest an 02-03. They have the 9000rpm redline, and due to the aggressive suspension setup, can oversteer a little easier than newer itterations.

If you want something more stable and slightly more comfy, anything 04+ is the ride for you. They lowered the redline a bit, but the engine is known to be a bit stronger and has shorter gears, so you get more of the power earlier in the powerband. They also come with wider wheels and tires stock.

All in all, you can't go wrong with any year, you'll fall in love with any model year you drive. Just make sure to take her past 6000rpm...I garuntee you'll be whipping out the checkbook.

 

i suggest the sexy original stock bone 00 s2000 AP1 YEYE the best shit ever. gpw red interior aww drules. its all you want