I am a New Jersey resident looking to buy an AP1 S2000 in a dealership in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

The dealer is: "Exotic Motors". I see some bad complaints in older comments, then good comments in newer comments (in the internet in general). I was hoping if there were any credible mechanics in the area (Rolling Meadows area) to have this car inspected (also, any general idea about the cost of inspection?). Carfax looks clean (http://www.carfax.com/VehicleHistory...r=CDM_U#Owner1).

Does anyone know if this dealership has cleared its bad reputation?

If anyone knows any important things to look out for (I read the FAQ in the website, but I'm sorta new in manual transmission cars - I only drove 1 car in MT, '91 Integra - for about a year), like those red-flag signs (certain sounds, and description of such sounds, if possible), please kindly let me know.

Website of the dealer with the car's URL: http://www.exotic-motors.com/detail-...d-7221469.html


Thank you.

 

I have heard bad things about them too, did you look in our local for sale forum? there are a few for sale at great prices and some of us can vouch for the owners and condition of the car.

 

holy crap $16,900? You can get an AP2 for that much. I bought my 07 last year w/ 19k on the odo for $19k.

 

I didn't look at the forums, because I need financing (just graduated college). The dealer didn't mind taking the car to the local honda dealership for an inspection report (at my cost of course) and said the car is eligible for extended warranty, leading me to believe that he's confident with the condition of the car. Carfax seems fine, and pictures look great too. Could this dealer be trusted?

 

@z_speed: I appreciate the info, but I'm interested in f20c engine at the moment

 

Here's an 02 with 24k for $15k.

https://www.s2ki.com/s2000/topic/884...#entry20795456

I know you said you need financing. Have you tried looking at a bank or possibly a credit union? I hate to see people waste money on dealer financing (unless you have spotless credit and can get an low rate).

 

@z_speed: banks won't loan because its older than 7 years; credit unions like wells fargo asked a very high apr (like 13%?) Because the car is old. I appreciate the info though. If only I had some cash...but everyday waiting for an s2k is an agony for me... I graduated from a pharmacy school, so finding a job isn't a problem; but my patience is running out

 

lol, understandable. You only live once, right?

I can suggest One 6 Motorsports to do an inspection on the car. They are a local Honda shop in the area of Rolling Meadows (about 5 miles away). Mark, the owner is a great guy to deal with. Here's their website. http://www.onesixmotorsports.com/

If I wasn't going to be in Michigan this weekend I'd vounteer to give it a look-over for you. maybe other UMW members will chime in and help you out.


Good luck!

 

@z_speed thank you very much for the info, yet again! I might take you on that offer, since I'm expecting to go to illinois sometime next week (later than earlier...maybe during a weekend).

I heard out hitting vtec on youtube......drools...........

 

Shop around on the credit union thing. I've seen .99% for 48 months regardless of car age. However they won't loan out more than black book value which is $10-13K depending on mileage for an AP1. And from what I know, stay away from Exotic Motors.