Tanikins07

Compression / Leak down test always, learned the hard way why you should always check no matter the miles or condition.

Lookin4as2k

That and possibly check the tranny fluid for metal flakes since thats a "weak" spot on s2000s if they are abused/dragged.

00MUGENS2

Never heard of weak transmissions. Just weak diffs on AP1s.

Lookin4as2k

Thats what I meant. Blame it on the hangover....

JMChristopher

Cool, I have my checklist from this site, so I am going to be thorough. During a test drive are there any hints that might point to low compression? Like lack of power, hesitation, excessive oil consumption?

I am fairly car savvy and it seems like this was an older gentleman that worked at home and only took the car out on special occasions as he had other vehicles. I have a good feeling about this, but I also know what some tell tail signs of abuse or improper wear and tear are.

Thanks for the comments guys!

Lookin4as2k

I know with mr2s if the engine seems to be consuming lots of oil you may lose power up top or it may hang, not sure if its the same with the S as mine didn't have that problem.

Tanikins07

Don't think there's really a for sure way to tell w/o doing the compression test that it would be low other than the obvious CEL for misfires. A mild over rev can cause a bent valve that can lead to bad compression and a world of a headaches later down the road, the symptoms don't necessarily show up right away. When you check for compression the numbers should be around 240 on all 4 cylinders for healthy compression but remember consistency is much more important so 230 isn't exactly bad but as long as it's 230 across all 4.

JMChristopher

Ok, I went to check it out in person. All I have to say is wow! That thing is spotless, no leaks, fluids and oil were good, the guy definitely took care of it. He said he would not budge on price, which is already kinda low considering what condition it is in.

If I got this car, it would be exposed to the elements as a don't have a garage. It is too perfect. I would feel bad spending almost all my money on it only to have it sit outside.

I am going to pass on this one, but if any one else is interested here is the
Autotrader ad.

The seller was a nice guy and sounded like a pretty big car nut.

BlackBearTX

Fuel Type Gasoline
Was hoping it'd run on french fries .

JMChristopher

I'm having second thoughts on buying this. I am thinking I should so I am figuring out how to make it feasible.

I could get a nice car cover for it and keep it under covered parking at my apartment and use it as a secondary vehicle.

I could also take out a small loan to get it.

So how do I avoid paying tax on this? Or is that possible?

Thanks, I might pull the trigger after all.