I can't believe that we're into the forth year of production of the AP2 and we're still having these AP1 vs AP2 pissing matches.

All those that think that the AP1 is better because it's more raw are as full of sh!t as those that think the AP2 is better because it's got more torque.

The AP1 may feel ever so slightly more bumpy than the AP2 because the rear spring rate was lowered a bit. But what people like to conveniently forget is that this change was intended to be a handling improvement as was increasing the spring rate in the front. Some may agree with Honda's engineers and think the change was good, and some may think the change was bad, but it sure as hell wasn't to make the car more comfy or livable.

And you know what?!?!? My g/f's stock '00 Si feels bumpier over most bumps than an AP1, so I suppose it's even MORE of a sports car.

Adjustments made to the suspension of a race car are often larger than the suspension changes made to the S2000 from 2003 to 2004.

Bumpier does NOT equal better handling. If it did, why would sports cars have suspension at all?

So, in my book, to say that the AP2 was softened to dumbed down for the general public that wants a cushy car is complete an utter .

The AP2 may have a little more torque, but it's not what some would have you believe. I've driven both cars and I never felt either lacked torque. This car wasn't ever designed to a torquey car. If the average American would be disappointed with an AP1 due to it's lack of torque, then I would very highly doubt that he/she would be pleased with an AP2. Rather, I would think a Mustang would be more up his/her alley.

I've driven several S2000s including AP1s and AP2s and I certainly wouldn't say that the AP1 is any worse around town or in stop-n-go traffic than an AP2 with all it's extra torque.

And what's this about AP1s for w/e cars and AP2s for daily drivers?!?!?!? Seriously people, the differences between the AP1 and the AP2 are miniscule compared to differences between an S2000 and other cars in the same class. It's like your nitpicking over these small differences just to argue for the sake of arguing.

Certainly there are differences and people may have a preference. That's great if you enjoy a particular aspect of you car. My suggestion for the OP is drive one of each and if he has a preference, buy the car that matches that preference, but don't waste a lot of time nitpicking over ridiculously small details.

So why do I happen to have an AP2? Because I wanted a new car when I was ready to purchase a sports car in 2005. Had I been ready in 2003, I'd have an AP1 and I'd enjoy it just as much and no more than the car I have now. Either way, I don't feel the need to justify my purchase. I wanted an S2000 and I bought one.

Stop arguing and go drive your damn cars.

 

yea I'm wrong, the AP2 is harsher ride that the AP1, its also faster, and harder to ride, I'm waaaaaaaaaay off.

Honda did make the AP2 smoother and added more comfort.