MODS - I meant to post this in the "is this car worth it" thread. Please feel free to move it there.


I have been looking at this site and elsewhere for an S2000 for about a year. I already have a couple of fun cars: 1995 NSX and 1966 Lincoln Continental Convertible (both red). Completely opposite ends of the spectrum, but both are a blast. However, my wife really likes white/tan S2000's, so I've found and made an offer on one:

2003, same owner for the last 12 years (retired female), all records, less than 75k miles, never modified, no sign of interior wear that I can pick up based on the pictures the seller sent. I've gotten her down to $12k, which seems like a very solid deal.

Two questions:
1) Thoughts on the price?

2) I've compiled a list of things to have done during the PPI. The Honda dealer closest to her says they will do the PPI for free, so I am a bit concerned it will not be thorough enough without some guidance. I can check things like the vin tags by myself, but I'll have to have the dealer check the items listed below. Please let me know if I am missing anything

• Engine Compression test
• Pull the valve cover and inspect for recessed keepers which are caused by cracked retainers
• Check spark plug torque and axle nut torque
• Any signs of leaking from the engine, transmission or differential
• Any signs of rust
• Damage to frame or underbody panels
• Condition of axle boot, tie rod boots, ball joints.
• Exhaust leaks or damage.
• Wheel bearings

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

Sounds like a good deal if the exterior is good and it passes the inspection.
Levi

 

A retainer inspection should not be much of a concern at all unless she is an aggressive driver or tracked the car.

 

I thought that might be the case. Frankly, after talking to her, I doubt it went much over 6k for the last 12 years. Not sure about the person who owned it for 18 months before her, but I would imagine any issues would have come up and been dealt with.

 

$12,000 cash money! I'd pay that provided all checks out as you mentioned.

darcy

 

Man I probably would have bought it already. That's exactly what I'm looking for, for a very reasonable price! Good luck!

 

That car would be advertised 15-17k where I live most likely (Seattle). Even if it isn't perfect I would snap that up.

 

Definitely a steal if all checks out, and like others have said, even with a few cosmetic issues, its well worth purchasing.

 

As all have said, great deal if its a solid car.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I have given them a cashiers check for my deposit with the rest payable pending completion of the PPI. I'll let you know how it goes. I think it would be great to have an S2000 parked next to the NSX.

And by the way...People on this site sometimes seem to have the attitude of "I'd buy the NSX if I could, but for now I have an S2000." I don't agree. The NSX is a fantastic driving experience and I absolutely love mine. But I do not see the S2000 as a fallback. It is a great, unique sports car in its own right. It benefits from many more years of technology advancement (remember, the NSX was designed in the 80's), all of the lessons Honda learned from the NSX's production, and the same absurdly high quality level. I'm looking forward to adding one to my (small) stable.