I looked at an AP1 to buy today, and the gearbox was louder than I remember from the last time I drove an s2000. It's a 2003 with 117k miles. Its not that it made noise when going into gear, but when it was in gear, especially at low rpms when the car is lugging a bit, it was simply very noisy. Thoughts?

 

i would get it checked out just in case. my current 03 doesnt make any noise that i can hear, the driveshaft on the other hand....

 

Mine is relatively quite.. only has 35k on it though. The bearings inside are known to go bad, especially in the tail of the trans. Probably needs a rebuild.

 

Mine only makes noise on deceleration (clutch buzz) but it is common on all AP1's

 

Did the owner mention any diff mods?

 

There aren't any mods, and he is used to the noise. He wants 8k for the car, its a 2003 with 117 miles, and its white. However, it needs a top, it needs all new tires, it needs a little body work, the seat bolster is worn, the taillight is cracked....

 

Walk away. Tires will cost $500. Soft top at least $1000. New tail light $150. Forever-a-worn seat bolster and stupid body work, $Priceless.

An 03 with 117k miles is not worth $9650.

You can probably pick up an 02 or 03 w/ <75k miles for $11ish. And less headaches.