Wall of text hits you for over 9k! ...sorry


This may seem like another do-the-research-for-me thread, I'm not trying make one, I've gotten better info with threads like these than weeks of research.


Background: I'm graduating (college) this May and it's been everything but easy. I've already got a 60 hr/wk job lined up and I feel like I need to reward myself with a new car. I've always been torn between s2000's and STi's. Completely different cars, but they are my favorite in my current price range.


I currently drive a 02 k20a2 ep3 and it gives me no trouble so I'm expecting that from a daily s2k with my modding goals. I'll have a budget of about 15-18k and am looking for a stock/clean s2000 for dd and local hpde days. I live in wisconsin but I have an eg for winter. I just want this thing to be reliable, handle (most important), look good, and maybe eventually supercharge.


I guess my questions are, what can I expect in my price range (mileage matters little < 75k is low enough), what should I look/watch out for while shopping for a s2000, or for any other advice/warnings. Anyone regret buying their s2000?

 

I did the same for myself - S2000 for a college graduation present

I say go for it!

 

S2000's are very special cars - anyone who says otherwise, probably hasn't had one, or had a lousy one (which is rare).

 

Do it!

I got my 06 with 32k miles for 19.5 in california none the less, so higher mileage and a cheaper state would result in lower price, just as a reference point.

Do yourself a favor and go for a 06+ that has VSA if you can, if not a earlier ap2 then The only real s2k specific problem is our weaker-than-should-be rear diff's. Other than that, just your normal problems to look for and definitely try and get a independent mechanic to look at it if you can. These cars can be driven HARD safely if done properly, but with that in mind there can be a lot of improper abuse if the prior owner(s) didn't take care of it well.

A couple of test drive things to note:

-If an AP2; and they give you a chance to do a hard pull and WOT into second don't worry about the feeling of a slipping clutch (unless you feel it in other spots as well), they introduced a clutch delay valve to help deter damage being done to the rear diff. This can easily be removed, however I'm not sure if it voids any warranties. Although if you wanted to do it, be smart get yourself another slave cylinder so in the event something goes wrong, you can put on a stock cylinder and roll it into the dealership

-Any s2k; if going into second feels notchier than other cars, this is pretty much normal (note: not grinding). But once again, keep a feeling out for other gears.

p.s. I don't think anyone EVER regrets buying an s2k unless they're a horrible driver and break stuff and blame it on the car, or they actually got some extreme lemon. I don't think any of us would hesitate to sign the papers in hindsight

 

Lots of great information there, I appreciate it.

 

buy one! The car is fun stock and even better when you mod it!

 

but kyle wouldnt know that since he hasnt driven his car in a long time...

 

Sounds like the perfect car for you. Look for an 04 or newer since you can afford it. Consider that the 06+ cars have VSA which needs to be over ridden for track days. You should find there are plenty AP2's (04+) in your price with reasonable millage.

 

Over ridden? There's an off button....

And people seriously dismiss the power of VSA on the track for no reason really. It's the same thing as the whole "omg ap1 has a power level over 9000!!". The point of turning on the track is to not break traction in a turn in order to have the fastest out speed. If traction is broken in the turn VSA will get you right back to where you want to be, pretty much instantly.

Unless of course your goal is to purposely induce under/oversteer and let the tires loose then I could understand your point. *shrug*

Different strokes for different folks

 

I wanted an ap2 so this is all good news. Were there any other major changes in 06?

 

AP2's have a 2.2L motor. Slightly more torque than the AP1 motor.

can't go wrong with either of them - very capable of being a DD. my ap1 was a dd for over 3 years.
i miss my ap1 so much

 

@OP

http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=340163

There are the electronic/engine changes. 06+ had quite a bit of upgrades from the 1st gen ap2's

 

TY for link.

 

4 months

 

buy one thr amazing nothin wrong wit dd it in wisconsin either

 

In that link that was posted people said the 06+ may be less of a "driver's car" and getting nearer to a touring car. I don't need any of the comfort/fancy stuff. Anyone switch from an ap1 to an ap2 and wish they didn't?

 

go for it

 

look at what those posts are dated, 2005. Originals will always think their model is purer *shrug*

Don't go by what others think, buy whichever type fits you best.

 

06' was the first year for...

1. VSA
2. Rollhoop mounted speakers
3. Electric throttle body

I <3 my 06'
Not really unless they mean it wont let you kill yourself without putting up a fight and actually has a decent sound system. The car is still pure and simple.

 

Good to hear. Can't wait to start test driving. I'll let you guys know what I get. :D

 

drive by wire sucks....period

 

Oh god here we go

At least I didnt have to instell over 9000 jumper lines and fiddle with an airpump when I installed my intake

 

it was actually just a bolt on affair...quite simple

 

Hee..Heee....

 

I haven't noticed any DBW lag whatsoever.

Here comes the purity pony!