I think there is a little nervous jealousy going on here regarding the '04's performance enhancements coming from some '00-'03 owners.
If you want it get it if not enjoy what you have. I purchased my '03 two months ago knowing of the speculated '04 changes and I have no regrets. If I did I would sell and purchase a new one. Both cars will have their own idiosyncrasies and that will make them special and endearing to their respective owners. Enjoy your ride and allow others to enjoy theirs.

 

I don't think anyone one of us will ever actually know WHY as Honda Japan do what they do as they have always been extremely tight lipped on everything. I can only surmise that they wanted the daily driving aspect improved and so they think they accomplished that unknowingly it would divide s2k owner from '04 to pre '04 owners..