Is it worth the risk???
 

Hi, just new to the forum. After owning numerous Hondas over the years I have a hankering for a rwd. So looking at possibly an s2000. I found one for sale not far from me at really good price with around 112k on the clock, year 2004. Few small issues but the big one and hence the low price is a rattle from the engine.
I have not viewed the car to hear it myself but owner said as soon as he heard it he stopped and got it recovered but hasn't had it diagnosed. It did have a rebuild about 10k miles ago to prepare it for forced induction but never went down that route. So my question is do you guys think its worth the risk? Could be something not too serious or could be full engine rebuild! Opinions welcome!

I meant to say this is a second car that would be for the track mostly. So would be looking to do a few track orientated mods to it anyway.

If it’s built with aftermarket engine parts, find another car.

Rebuilt? I wouldn't buy it if engine was running perfectly.

Even if noise turns out to be something benign like a serpentine idler pulley bearing, I still wouldn't buy this car.

You'll likely need to install a factory longblock.

If the price of the car and the price of replacing an engine and whatever else is wrong makes monetary sense to you, then go for it.

Cheers for replies. Having looked a bit more into it and seeing comments I don't think it's worth it. Ive been used to having k20 engines but as it's been said, rebuilding these s2000 engines is not an easy or cheap task so buying a car with one that has been rebuilt is risky anyway without taking one on with problems! The hunt continues!

I think the financially sensible answer is no. However, if you really like K20's and could get this one for cheap enough, K swaps are becoming more popular seemingly. I think that as time goes on and S2k engines become expensive and limited, those who still track the S chassis may end up swapping in K's. If you can get it for cheap enough and factor in the cost of a K-swap, it may be worth considering. Cool idea, but I wouldn't do it personally. Too many good driving cars available for around 12k to make that financially worth it.

Hi, bill

I was wondering if you could private message me i have some questions about a car that you use to serviced. I am thinking about buying it.
thanks