Three main things I prefer about my '03 (and the '02) versus the '00-01:

-Glass rear window
-"better" stereo (not good stereo, but easier to upgrade because of the separate tweeters in the doors)
-leather instead of carpet on center console

Good news is that it's possible to update an '00 with all of these. The second two especially can be fixed for a few hundred bucks total. If the car is otherwise right, go for it.

 

After owning an 03, 08, 00, and 02 over the past 14 years, I'm sticking with AP1.

The "fun factor" on the S2000 for me is the run up to the 9,000 rpm redline. My 08 experience was like going to a great steakhouse and ordering chicken.

Not a fan of understeer suspension, slower steering rack, heavier car, drive-by-wire throttle, stability control, traction control, seat sensor, clutch delay valve, TPMS, super heavy flywheel, softened headlights, short sweep tachometer cluster, and a little more torque at the expense of lowered redline.

 

I think a lot of it has to do with how you plan to use the car. I'm quickly realizing that in my real world setting (one in which I don't wish to accumulate a boatload of tickets) beyond 3rd gear, my S2000 isn't going to see much redline action even with the lower redline of the AP2 engine. I'm no doubt missing out on some of the fun that comes with the 9000 rpm redline of the AP1 engine. However, in my situation, I probably benefit more from the engine tuning and gearing of the quicker AP2. If I were I were going to modify or track the car I imagine that I'd be on the opposite side of the fence (both literally and figuratively).

 

In my fantasy world, I'd also have an AP1. I imagine that all things being equall, I'd have a preference for either a 2000 model (eventual collectibility value) or a 2003 model (for the items Honda addressed over time). However, all things rarely being equal (even if it is a fantasy), the cleanest AP1 with the lowest mileage would be my choice.

 

If you plan on keeping the car completely stock, then drive both versions and see which one feels better. If you plan on doing some extensive modding, then it's a wash. I personally find the difference subtle so I bought the car that was in the best condition I could within my budget.

 

I like the look. What wheels are those.

 

Thanks, they are Titanium Silver Volk Ce28 in "S2000 offsets" so 17x7.5 +50 fronts with 215/45/17 RE11A tires, 17x9.0 +63 rears with 245/40/17 RE11A tires. No spacers, no rolled fenders, no rubbing. Around 15lbs per wheel, 5lbs lighter than OEM wheels.

 

This strikes me as one of those "the whole is greater than the sum of of the parts" photos. Take a great looking car to begin with, some nice wheels and some thoughtful composition. Put them all together and it makes for an incredible image. I especially like the "mirage" effect going on - is there a puddle underneath the car? Real photo, photoshop? Whatever it is, it just works (seeing on my phone screen earlier today didn't really do it justice, lol).

 

Extremely well said!

 

Real photo. Those are heat waves from the parking lot. I took the shot with the camera very low, and from far away using a lot of zoom. I took more shots from a slightly higher camera position and the heat waves disappeared. But I like the super low angle.