So springs just around the corner in Canada and I've been saving up to get a used s2000. Wondered which year is best, the ap2 are a bit to expensive for my taste so I decided to go for the ap1 (2000-2003).
Looking around a price range of 12-18k.
I've done some research and found that the 2002-2003 has a lot of improvements from the 2001 model.

Also realize in Edmonton we have 6 months of snow and 6 months of summer so I was leaning towards the 2001 model and save myself a couple bucks, since I would only drive it for half the year. I mean would I be using any of the features it comes with? Such as traction control, or I mean does the stronger ac make that much of a difference?

So in all i wanted to hear your thoughts about the difference, is the 2002 model ALOT better then the 2001? Such as smoother shifting? The rear glass I can replace for 2001 since I was going to get a hardtop anyways.

 

In my opinion the changes made on the various years of the ap1 aren't deal breaking.

I say just start looking and buy the cleanest lowest mileage one you can find regardless of the year.

 

if your looking at a price range of 12-18k, then a AP2 isn't to expensive, I see them in that price range all the time.

 

If you have narrowed it down to an AP1, I would stick with an 02-03 because of your location and the plastic window on the 00-01.

However, if you find an 00-01 that the previous owner has upgraded to a rear glass window, that would solve one of the biggest problems.

Also, the early model cars had a synchro issue.

 

Find a low milage be ready to replace top and buy now before the price gose up in about 2 months

Personally if I had to do it again I would get a gpw low milage ap1 and if I had your budget of 18k I would convert to the ap2 headlights and tail lights and front bumper and throw on an exuast and enjoy

 

The OP lives in Canada...cars are like 60% more expensive up there!

I think the 2002 Changes are worth holding out for over a 2001. It's not just the glass window it's the leather trimmed console instead of carpet, nicer shift nob, aluminum racing pedals stock, chrome ringed tail lamps and better oil flow in the head as well as better spring rates and suspension geometry.

 

definetly get an 02-03. The glass rear window is much better to have than the plastic one, especially when it's colder out. Also the other little things are just nice to have.

 

02+. Don't settle for anything below that. And if you plan on doing any ap2 upgrades, just save longer and buy an ap2.

 

I'd say get the AP1 year that had those GPW's with the blue interior.

 

2002 is the best year