I would go with the AP2. It's all around a nicer car, if you don't plan on doing mods I think you'll be happier with an AP2.

 

AP1 FTW

 

I own an AP1 and I honestly say look at both cars, if the exterior is similar conditioned (good top, body on both) get the AP2 - unless you want the 9K redline. Since you said you're not that interested in it, get the AP2.

Resell will be higher, even though it has higher mileage everything other than the drivetrain will have (probably) less wear and tear, things were upgraded from the AP1 to the AP2 that makes it more livable.

The AP1 is pure, the AP2 is more liveable.

 

I've owned two AP2s, and I think I'd be looking at them over AP1s in your situation.
I can go into the pros/cons of both, but I'm sure you've done your research for the most part, right?
If you're not going to mod the car at all, I think the AP2 would be the best buy. No offense to AP1 owners but those S2Ks look a bit out of date due to the headlights, front bumper, tail lights, center console, etc. Just my 0.02 cents.

Now if money is pretty tight and the AP1s are the only cars that are falling within your price range, there's nothing wrong with them. Just wait and see if you can find a better deal on an AP2 S2000. If not, the AP1 should be more than great!

Lastly, the high mileage in any Honda shouldn't be of too much concern unless the car has been toyed with and modded relentlessly. Even then, I'd prefer the reliability of a modded Honda over a modded anything else.

 

I would love to have an AP1 as a daily. If you want a more refined vehicle, go with the AP2. Honestly, you didnt provide enough info. What's the prices and what's the real condition of each vehicle? If your price cap is $12k, you will be getting an AP1. An AP2 at that price will be a ragged out POS.

 

i was mainly wanting to see what people would say if both cars were the same price. I've been looking at an 01 with 45k, pristine condition, for about 13500. And i've seen a few ap2's around 15k with 50-60k miles.

$13k is probably the highest i can go, but i really would like the glass back window, so maybe i'll keep searching for an 02+.

 

AP1 then...

 

My vote is AP2, the mileage, as others have said isn't that big of a deal on a Honda, plus age has as much to do with part failure as mileage. If you must go AP1 go 02 or 03. I think you should be able to find something in your price range if you are patient. With some negotiating I picked up my 05 with 85k on it for 11k. It isn't show quality but it is in very good condition.

 

regardless of ap1 or ap2
i would take the one with 45k miles cuz its almost the half of the other one

 

What I (or anyone else) prefer doesn't matter. Test drive and get what you prefer.