View Full Version : Choosing a convertible
It's days like this that really make me wish I had a fun summer car again. I was wondering, for somebody looking to only spend around $25,000, what you would choose for a summer sports car. My only criteria is it must be a convertible, I'm currently considering:
- 2001 Porshe Boxter S
- 2003/4 Honda S2000
Those are really the only 2 that I've thought about owning, what do you own and is it really that great to have a convertible? Is there anything with the above 2 car's that I should watch out for? Going through the auto trader it seems like there's an abundance of convertibles for sale, and they seem to be relatively cheap - is that really only because we can drive them 6 months out of the year in Calgary's climate?
I'd be open to hear from other convertible owner's, what they drive.
Supa Dexta
07-19-2008, 02:32 PM
labaron, pimp er out.
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 02:35 PM
Originally posted by Supa Dexta
labaron, pimp er out.
http://www.creeksideautosales.net/images/1900a-2.jpg
look at those sick gold D's!
clearly states in the first post that my max price would be $25k, this car is clearly outta my price range.
Didn 't Maserati have a version of the very same car?
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 02:40 PM
Originally posted by Paul
clearly states in the first post that my max price would be $25k, this car is clearly outta my price range.
Didn 't Maserati have a version of the very same car?
Ya, but they only produced like 15 of them back in 02 and with such uncontrollable power i highly doubt there are over 10 left in one piece...
Supa Dexta
07-19-2008, 02:41 PM
geo metro?
http://www.gmphotostore.com/images/53218408_pr.jpg
sebring?
http://64.251.10.3/nimg/2006/11/thumbs/lrg_article_8459-img_0.jpg
sunfire?
http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/autoreview/400x266/2000-Pontiac-Sunfire-99129221990111.jpg
You really just gotta get out there and see how a car fits you, in the end you're making the call.
I'm really looking to buy 1 car for $25k, not all 3 that you listed for $25k.
Jlude
07-19-2008, 02:50 PM
With the abundance of S2K's for sale these days, you should be able to pick up a nice one for your price range.
As for convertibles. This is the first convertible I've ever owned, before it, I hated them... (never actually drove one) just hated the look of them. After owning one... I love it.
05 Toyota Solara
$25k with 40xxxkm
http://www.automedia.com/NewCarBuyersGuide/photos/2005/Toyota/Solara/Convertible/2006_Toyota_SolaraConvertible_ext_1.jpg
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 02:54 PM
Originally posted by Paul
I'm really looking to buy 1 car for $25k, not all 3 that you listed for $25k.
:rofl: well S2K, Boxster, Z4, Miata (<---ghey IMO), TT... it really depends how many seats and what wheels you want to power the car (FF, FR...) to determine what would work best for you...
luxor
07-19-2008, 02:54 PM
Originally posted by Paul
clearly states in the first post that my max price would be $25k, this car is clearly outta my price range.
Didn 't Maserati have a version of the very same car?
Originally posted by Paul
I'm really looking to buy 1 car for $25k, not all 3 that you listed for $25k.
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
I would recoment you can get a 325Ci convertible for that price range you listed, very nice car. You should also consider the Z3 2.5/3.0 and SLK230 as well. But your choice of the boxster and S2K are very good too and you won't go wrong with either.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c293/beachboi21/beamer.jpg
Jlude
07-19-2008, 02:58 PM
Originally posted by luxor
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
I would recoment you can get a 325Ci convertible for that price range you listed, very nice car. You should also consider the Z3 2.5/3.0 and SLK230 as well. But your choice of the boxster and S2K are very good too and you won't go wrong with either.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c293/beachboi21/beamer.jpg
WTF is wrong with that picture... is it a mirror image or something? Look at the "USED CARS" sign.
Solara's are nice, didn't consider that one before. I think the BMW's are still outta my price range. It's really just for the summer, would be garaged rest of the year, I like the reliability of the S2K. Interesting you mention the TT as well, something else I'd have to consider. I owned a Landrover before and just hated the hourly shop rate the dealership charged to work on the vehicle. That's why I'm leary about owning a Porshe, Audi, BMW, Benz.
Jlude, what convertible do you own?
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 03:01 PM
Originally posted by Paul
Jlude, what convertible do you own?
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p96/bizzle869/IMG00055.jpg
Originally posted by teg_boya
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p96/bizzle869/IMG00055.jpg
Very nice, like the colour / wheel combo. I just can't believe how many S2K's there are for sale in the Trader and here on Beyond lately. Is it worth getting the hard-top if I only plan to drive in the summer? How heavy is that, can you and a buddy remove it?
Jlude
07-19-2008, 03:05 PM
Originally posted by teg_boya
http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p96/bizzle869/IMG00055.jpg
That would be it.
Nice pic!
I'm a little creeped out right now.
Do you know where I live too?
Originally posted by Jlude
That would be it.
Nice pic!
I'm a little creeped out right now.
Do you know where I live too?
Did we just un-earth some Beyond e-stalking or something?
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 03:08 PM
Originally posted by Jlude
That would be it.
Nice pic!
I'm a little creeped out right now.
Do you know where I live too?
:rofl: :rofl: i work right in the same area as you and saw it while driving by so i snapped a pic with my BB. It was the first one i had seen in person... and that color is :poosie:
Jlude
07-19-2008, 03:09 PM
Originally posted by Paul
Very nice, like the colour / wheel combo. I just can't believe how many S2K's there are for sale in the Trader and here on Beyond lately. Is it worth getting the hard-top if I only plan to drive in the summer? How heavy is that, can you and a buddy remove it?
Since you'll likely be buying one in Canada, getting the hard top isn't a factory option, you'll have to buy the hardtop (mine's $2500) and a conversion kit.
If you're only gonna drive it in the summer, then I wouldn't get the a hardtop. Soft top is much more convenient.
IMO the hard top looks much better.
It's 40 something pounds, very easily removed and two people can take it off in only a minute or two.
Jlude
07-19-2008, 03:11 PM
Originally posted by teg_boya
:rofl: :rofl: i work right in the same area as you and saw it while driving by so i snapped a pic with my BB. It was the first one i had seen in person... and that color is :poosie:
Haha, no worries.
Ya some of the guys in the office said they'd see people walking around the car and looking at it. Every once in a while I'd hear the alarm go off for a second because someone touched something or go too close.
Thanks
Hakkola
07-19-2008, 03:14 PM
Originally posted by Jlude
That would be it.
Nice pic!
I'm a little creeped out right now.
Car is easy to recognize in Calgary, you parked by me at chinook a week ago or so.
I would suggest an SLK as well, great little car, with a retractable hard top and a lot more gusto for city driving with more torque down low than the s2000 will have.
Personally I would buy an s2000 or SLK for that money, probably not the boxster unless it is a boxster s
4doorj
07-19-2008, 03:24 PM
i would definitly choose the s2000
teg_boya
07-19-2008, 03:25 PM
i myself am looking into a S2000, so i may be biased but it sure looks like the car to get. S2000 + hardtop = :drool:
Sorath
07-19-2008, 03:50 PM
if u had to pick between the 2 i`d pick an s2000
however i myself would get a 330cic
SkittleFreak
07-19-2008, 03:54 PM
People are getting 6 months out of their convertable in Calgary?
They must be wearing coats most of the time then.
rage2
07-19-2008, 03:57 PM
My favorite was my SLK32 AMG w/Renntech. It was an awesome all around car, drove 'er year round. The convertible hardtop is awesome. You might be able to score them for about 25k now...
The M3 is a true summer car, although after this roadtrip it's slowly creeping up to the top for my favorite vert. Not gonna find a E46 M3 vert for 25k tho.
max_boost
07-19-2008, 05:45 PM
S2K no doubt. It's a Honda so reliable by default. Still looks sexy and a blast to drive in the summer. It's been out for almost a decade and if you look hard enough, you'll find one that has been very well taken care of.
nightfx
07-19-2008, 06:03 PM
S2K! The only other car I would choose other than that is a Z4.
jdmSiR
07-19-2008, 06:04 PM
it seems as every Porsche i see driving around is a boxster, get a 2003/4 Honda S2000
Originally posted by Paul
It's days like this that really make me wish I had a fun summer car again. I was wondering, for somebody looking to only spend around $25,000, what you would choose for a summer sports car. My only criteria is it must be a convertible, I'm currently considering:
- 2001 Porshe Boxter S
- 2003/4 Honda S2000
Those are really the only 2 that I've thought about owning, what do you own and is it really that great to have a convertible? Is there anything with the above 2 car's that I should watch out for? Going through the auto trader it seems like there's an abundance of convertibles for sale, and they seem to be relatively cheap - is that really only because we can drive them 6 months out of the year in Calgary's climate?
I'd be open to hear from other convertible owner's, what they drive.
Masked Bandit
07-19-2008, 07:01 PM
I'm surprised that nobody has mentioned a Mustang yet. I know it's not the typical machine on this board but we rented one a few years ago while on vacation and I think it's a pretty good bang for the buck.
:dunno:
yellowsnow
07-19-2008, 07:02 PM
don't get a boxster... the s2000 is a way nicer car, and the shifter is just awesome.
Weapon_R
07-19-2008, 07:24 PM
The S2000 should be better at everything over the Boxster - faster, more reliable, and I even think it handles better over the Porsche.
The drawback is that your driving an otherwise uncomfortable car. It's stiff, it's loud, and its very, very unpractical. I'd probably take the porsche if your leaning for a more refined ride. The S2000 is a nightmare in stop and go traffic.
Originally posted by Weapon_R
The S2000 should be better at everything over the Boxster - faster, more reliable, and I even think it handles better over the Porsche.
The drawback is that your driving an otherwise uncomfortable car. It's stiff, it's loud, and its very, very unpractical. I'd probably take the porsche if your leaning for a more refined ride. The S2000 is a nightmare in stop and go traffic.
thank you! it really is a terrible car for the city. High redlines, its basically WOT to go anywhere, its not like each gear pulls the same. You can get Solara's for pretty cheap that are super reliable.
rage2
07-19-2008, 09:07 PM
I wouldn't choose an S2K because of how uncomfortable it is. You'd want something you want to drive every single day, nice blast on the roadcourse, or a leisurely cruise through the city. If you want a racecar, then get the S2K. Scratch that, if you want a racecar, get a race car that's faster than the S2K lol.
I've driven tons of S2K over the years, it's a fun car to borrow, but I would never own one. I dunno, the younger crowd loves 'em, maybe if I was 18 and thought I was Schumacher, maybe I'd like it.
gpomp
07-19-2008, 09:26 PM
FYI, 04+ s2000's are much easier to live with.
imjimmylin
07-19-2008, 09:29 PM
Originally posted by Jlude
Ya some of the guys in the office said they'd see people walking around the car and looking at it. Every once in a while I'd hear the alarm go off for a second because someone touched something or go too close.
Thanks
Did you get an aftermarket alarm installed? If so which one did you go for? I'm thinking of getting one installed on my S2K.
em2ab
07-19-2008, 09:41 PM
Nobody suggested a 350Z Roadster? BMW Z3? BMW Z4? And then there's the Eclipse Spyder. Also, I wouldn't consider the Miata gay, I'd own one no problem, especially the Mazdaspeed version. They did a test of them on a show back in the day and the Miata turned out to be the best in almost every category they tested in. And that was against a few cars including the S2000.
demosticgarbage
07-19-2008, 09:55 PM
http://www.autounleashed.com/images/toyota_prius_convertible.jpg
I would get a slk. Test drive s2000 and you'll see how much low end torque you've got; sure it looks good but with the slk's hardtop its on a different level!
Thanks for all the input guys.
There's a bunch of opinions open on this, and a lot of stuff to weigh to see which I'm likely gonna buy. I currently own 2 Honda's and have owned plenty in the past. The big upside to that is the reliability and service from the dealerships.
Like I said earlier, the only non-Japanese import I've owned was my '05 Landrover and the thing was a night-mare. They are well known for having electrical issues (I was previously warned to buying one) and the shop rate at the dealership was un-economical at the time, being a student.
The reason I was even considering the Boxter was because they look like decent cars, they've had pretty good reviews in the few magazines I've read, and they "aren't a Honda". It would definitely have to be the Boxter "S" - I think the regular Boxter would just be disappointing after about a week.
I'm not looking for another car to do-up, it's really just something fun to cruise around town in during the summer. (I hate driving my pilot in the summer).
Thanks again for the comments.
Destinova403
07-20-2008, 09:51 PM
dude... what about a sky redline? those things are pretty fast... and cheap.
gpomp
07-20-2008, 09:53 PM
because you gotta hop outta the car to move the top and they drive like shit
Destinova403
07-20-2008, 09:55 PM
^^ touche... but as a summer or track car they would be pretty nice.
gpomp
07-20-2008, 09:58 PM
not as nice as an s2k in either regard, but ok...
dannie
07-21-2008, 09:42 AM
I just sold my Lexus SC430 and I would buy another one in a heartbeat. It was great because it's a hardtop convertible so you don't have to worry about leaks or anything when it rains. Plus it is one of the nicest riding vehicles I have ever been in. The sound system is a Harmon Karmon and frikkin rocks.
I'm now driving a Mustang GT convertible and I really like the power it has. It sounds and looks so aggresive.
I wouldn't go with the boxster myself. I find they are a dime a dozen and the cost to maintain isn't worth it.
Just my two cents.
Impreza
07-21-2008, 10:21 AM
What about an MZ3?
the Porsche Boxster is relatively pretty unreliable, i'd stay awayyy
95EagleAWD
07-21-2008, 11:31 AM
S2K!
Haha, seriously, though, if you're looking for a decently practical convertible, you're looking at Z3, S2000, Boxster, or Miatas; not too many other convertibles have much of a trunk with the top down. Unless you want a Sebring?
And yeah, my S2K is my first droptop too, and it's great. I never wanted a convertible, and now I would find it tough to go back to having a roof.
drewb
07-21-2008, 09:04 PM
suzuki cappuccino
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Suzuki_Cappuccino_001.jpg/800px-Suzuki_Cappuccino_001.jpg
http://nakasho.fc2web.com/cappuccino/cap058a.jpg
boxster = hairdresser car
Jlude
07-22-2008, 12:19 AM
Originally posted by rmk
boxster = hairdresser car
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
WTF makes you say that?
AliXJ
07-22-2008, 12:39 AM
Go wth the S2K, Great car all round, but it is a little uncomfortable for longer drives. Nothing but pleased with mine. I would not get the hardtop if your only using it for summer. I only drive my S2K in summer and never use my hardtop, so I have one if you want it. By the way, the hardtop weighs 44 pounds.
Proboscis
07-22-2008, 12:50 AM
S2000, swiftest 6 speed.
BigDannyCool
07-22-2008, 12:52 AM
get the crx convertible.
arian_ma
07-22-2008, 09:10 AM
Well, first I hope you know that the 03 and 04 s2000 are completely different cars with complete different characteristics.
Second, like many others here, the S is my first convertible and I can't see myself in anything but a convertible anymore.
Third, for whoever said you must be wearing parkas to drive the car in the winter...it does have a heater you know, and it's not like the roof is porous or something. I think my S2000 gets unbearably hot after only about 6-7 minutes of driving it in -15 weather.
As for practicality, well, what are you expecting out of a 2 seater coupe convertible? Trunk space is fairly decent considering the car. I don't take my s2000 when I know I am going to be lugging things around obviously, and I drive in stop and go traffic and have absolutely no problems. I really don't know what some of you guys are comparing the car to to call it a "nightmare" in traffic; an automatic Lexus?
Anyways, that's my biased input.
rc2002
07-22-2008, 09:40 AM
If the S2000 is your only car, you're going to regret it. It's a lot of fun in small doses but as a daily driver it gets tiring fast.
Originally posted by richardchan2002
If the S2000 is your only car, you're going to regret it. It's a lot of fun in small doses but as a daily driver it gets tiring fast.
agreed. its a great car, but its high redline is annoying for traffic.
bspot
07-22-2008, 10:39 AM
Originally posted by arian_ma
Well, first I hope you know that the 03 and 04 s2000 are completely different cars with complete different characteristics.
Second, like many others here, the S is my first convertible and I can't see myself in anything but a convertible anymore.
Third, for whoever said you must be wearing parkas to drive the car in the winter...it does have a heater you know, and it's not like the roof is porous or something. I think my S2000 gets unbearably hot after only about 6-7 minutes of driving it in -15 weather.
As for practicality, well, what are you expecting out of a 2 seater coupe convertible? Trunk space is fairly decent considering the car. I don't take my s2000 when I know I am going to be lugging things around obviously, and I drive in stop and go traffic and have absolutely no problems. I really don't know what some of you guys are comparing the car to to call it a "nightmare" in traffic; an automatic Lexus?
Anyways, that's my biased input.
I've driven an 04, and although it was a really nice car the lack of power before V-tech was really really frustrating. I love being able to hammer it at 2000rpm and actually feel something.
arian_ma
07-22-2008, 10:52 AM
Originally posted by bspot
I've driven an 04, and although it was a really nice car the lack of power before V-tech was really really frustrating. I love being able to hammer it at 2000rpm and actually feel something.
:werd: it is frustrating sometimes but I think on the other end of the spectrum, the exhilaration of flying down an on-ramp in second all the way to 9K will never be matched by any kind of torque. It's all personal preference though, and torque is really lovely for every OTHER day of the year lol.
You have to really be dedicated to be able to live with this car as your only car everyday of the year.
PS. you did not just call it V-tech, unless of course you're being sarcastic and I just got owned twice today.
citylimits
07-22-2008, 11:31 AM
Get an s2k- '03 was the last year of the AP1 with the switch to AP2 in '04. You should be able to find one with <30k in the low 20's. I looked into Boxsters when I was looking at S2000s, and you really can't beat the performance or reliability on the Honda. Check out the boards at S2ki.com, they're some helpful folks
95EagleAWD
07-22-2008, 11:45 AM
Originally posted by arian_ma
:werd: it is frustrating sometimes but I think on the other end of the spectrum, the exhilaration of flying down an on-ramp in second all the way to 9K will never be matched by any kind of torque. It's all personal preference though, and torque is really lovely for every OTHER day of the year lol.
You have to really be dedicated to be able to live with this car as your only car everyday of the year.
PS. you did not just call it V-tech, unless of course you're being sarcastic and I just got owned twice today.
I agree. I love winding engines all the way out and that's why I was specifically searching for an AP1 S2000.
I don't find it hard to drive in traffic at all. It's got enough torque to go in stop and go. You just have to get used to the fact that short-shifting happens at 5500 rpm.
And it's my only car. So we'll see about how practical it can be, haha....
Jlude
07-22-2008, 11:45 AM
Originally posted by richardchan2002
If the S2000 is your only car, you're going to regret it. It's a lot of fun in small doses but as a daily driver it gets tiring fast.
QFT
Originally posted by RATM
agreed. its a great car, but its high redline is annoying for traffic.
How is the high red line annoying for traffic?
Originally posted by Jlude
QFT
How is the high red line annoying for traffic?
you have to rev it high to get anywhere quick? very little torque
Originally posted by RATM
you have to rev it high to get anywhere quick? very little torque
hi,
http://forums.beyond.ca/showthread.php?s=&postid=2519582
ShiDave
07-22-2008, 12:48 PM
I would buy a bike just so you don't have to deal with people assuming you are gay.
rage2
07-22-2008, 01:31 PM
Originally posted by arian_ma
:werd: it is frustrating sometimes but I think on the other end of the spectrum, the exhilaration of flying down an on-ramp in second all the way to 9K will never be matched by any kind of torque.
I disagree :rofl:. Retarded torque + 8000rpm > *.
Actually, I'm only 1/3 way down any offramp by the end of 2nd haha.
Jlude
07-22-2008, 02:21 PM
Originally posted by RATM
you have to rev it high to get anywhere quick? very little torque
It obviously doesn't have any torque, but I don't find it's that bad... once you're above 3000rpm... it moves just fine.
Impreza
07-22-2008, 03:12 PM
Originally posted by RATM
you have to rev it high to get anywhere quick? very little torque
Have you driven an S2000? It really isn't as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Yes, it doesn't have much torque, but it is more than enough for daily driving IMO. Sure, more is better, but it does the job at the end of the day.
95EagleAWD
07-22-2008, 03:14 PM
Originally posted by ShiDave
I would buy a bike just so you don't have to deal with people assuming you are gay.
Or you're just secure enough in your manhood to enjoy a convertible. Plus the blonde in the passenger seat is usually good enough.
95EagleAWD
07-22-2008, 03:15 PM
Originally posted by Impreza
Have you driven an S2000? It really isn't as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Yes, it doesn't have much torque, but it is more than enough for daily driving IMO. Sure, more is better, but it does the job at the end of the day.
Yeah, I'm hearing a lot of this too.
I just drive it like every other car I've owned. Shift at 4000 rpm or so. I find it's easier to downshift to 5th to pass on 2 lane highways, but other than that, it's the same as every other car on the road.
403Gemini
07-22-2008, 03:16 PM
Originally posted by Supa Dexta
labaron, pimp er out.
Whoa.... i just found this thread and by the title i was like "lololol im gonna be clever!!! say the lebaron zomg! haw haw" ... and the 1st fucking post says lebaron
Well played Supa... well played ;)
arian_ma
07-22-2008, 03:25 PM
Originally posted by rage2
I disagree :rofl:. Retarded torque + 8000rpm > *.
Actually, I'm only 1/3 way down any offramp by the end of 2nd haha.
Hey Rage, I think you should stop posting in threads where people are buying cars with 1/4 of your horsepower. You are just ruining my self esteem man.
:rofl:
rc2002
07-22-2008, 04:23 PM
Originally posted by Impreza
Have you driven an S2000? It really isn't as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Yes, it doesn't have much torque, but it is more than enough for daily driving IMO. Sure, more is better, but it does the job at the end of the day.
True. The S2000 is relatively torquey (even the 2.0L) when comparing to other Hondas. It's more than enough for city driving.
But when you go outside the Honda circle and start comparing with 350Zs, 330s, etc, you realize how much more you can have.
gpomp
07-22-2008, 04:30 PM
in terms of torque, my civic feels like a diesel truck compared to the s2000 :rofl:
rc2002
07-22-2008, 06:42 PM
That's quite surprising. I haven't driven a new Civic Si but I have driven RSX-S before and the K20A2 doesn't feel all that torquey...
yellowsnow
07-23-2008, 12:04 AM
how about the 350z roadster? :drool:
i prefer the hardtop myself for looks, but the ride is amazing on these cars. smooth powerband, you don't need to rev it up to 6000rpms to feel the car pull hard. about the same gas mileage as the s2000 too. and the s2000 is a 2.2l 4cyl, while the 350z is a 3.5l v6
Impreza
07-23-2008, 12:11 AM
^ No way a 128i Cab is going to be ~$25k....
Destinova403
07-23-2008, 12:11 AM
^^ sry i nuked my post because i just looked up the pricing... atleast in canada its way over.
canadianskyline
07-23-2008, 12:12 AM
Totally depends what you want.
If you want to mod it and customize it the s2000 is the one to get probably.
If you want something nice to keep in stock trim, a bmw M roadster (very nice cars, the i6 is smooooth), Boxster, or a z4 would be a good bet.
MB slk230 are ok too, just not my cup of tea.
I've got some time in an m roaster and z4 and they are both really nice cars. They also suck with the top up (feel cramped inside). Anyway, before you make a decision make sure make sure you go check out the bmw's. I always hated z4's, until i drove one.
350z vert?
bspot
07-23-2008, 12:47 AM
Originally posted by arian_ma
PS. you did not just call it V-tech, unless of course you're being sarcastic and I just got owned twice today.
Maybe I should have called it V-tak to be more obvious ;)
rage2
07-23-2008, 09:59 AM
I'm not a big fan of the SLK230. At least get a 320 or 32, the V6 is so much smoother and sounds so much nicer.
Euro_Trash
07-23-2008, 10:05 AM
Originally posted by dannie
I'm now driving a Mustang GT convertible
Originally posted by dannie
I wouldn't go with the boxster myself. I find they are a dime a dozen
wat?
tentacles
07-23-2008, 10:09 AM
S2000 seems like a nice car, but what makes it $10k nicer than a Miata? Other than being able to tell people your car revs to 10,000 rpm? :dunno:
rc2002
07-23-2008, 10:41 AM
Originally posted by tentacles
S2000 seems like a nice car, but what makes it $10k nicer than a Miata? Other than being able to tell people your car revs to 10,000 rpm? :dunno:
About 75HP. I test drove the Miata and it felt like a slouch. Handling-wise the two cars might be on par, but power wise is a whole different story.
Plus the S2K comes with a power folding roof instead of a manual one.
tentacles
07-23-2008, 10:55 AM
Well the S2000 also quite a bit heavier, so isn't it kind of a wash?
rage2
07-23-2008, 11:00 AM
Isn't the miata a hard top convertible now with 200hp or something?
schocker
07-23-2008, 11:03 AM
Same engine for all the miatas the 166hp 4cyl, pwht is about a $3k option iirc.
Graham_A_M
07-23-2008, 05:39 PM
I Didn't read through all 5 pages, but I'll chime in and say that you should take a look at a BMW Z3. They made them from 96-'02. You can find a nice one well within your price range, possibly even one with the 330hp S54 (M3) engine. The '01's and '02 M roadsters came with that S54 powerplant.
Great little cars, although I detest the assend on them. :barf:
The '01's and '02 M roadsters/coupes are hard to beat even stock in a straight line.
:clap:
japan_us
07-23-2008, 07:54 PM
E46 Cab or S2K... best choices in this price range. Z3? Meh....I'm sure it's a blast, but it's ugly as sin IMO.
You can't really go wrong with either, as they're both really fun summer rides.
Personally, the ricer roadster is a bit of a one trick pony, although it does this trick really, really well. If all you want is something to jump into, drop the top and rip up the road on the weekend, then it's a great option.
I find the BMW is more versatile. It seats/carries more, and having driven both, I'd opt to be in the BMW if I was in traffic, which is where I spend much of my time. I also like the styling. Whereas the Honda is pure aggressiveness (which is not a bad thing), the BMW can be sporty and classy at the same time - it looks great whether tearing up the twisties, or parked at a nice restaurant.
I'd go with one of these two. The others are either, a) ugly, b) for girls or c) all of the above, i.e.; for male hair stylists.
rage2
07-23-2008, 08:06 PM
Originally posted by japan_us
E46 Cab or S2K... best choices in this price range. Z3? Meh....I'm sure it's a blast, but it's ugly as sin IMO.
You can't really go wrong with either, as they're both really fun summer rides.
Personally, the ricer roadster is a bit of a one trick pony, although it does this trick really, really well. If all you want is something to jump into, drop the top and rip up the road on the weekend, then it's a great option.
I find the BMW is more versatile. It seats/carries more, and having driven both, I'd opt to be in the BMW if I was in traffic, which is where I spend much of my time. I also like the styling. Whereas the Honda is pure aggressiveness (which is not a bad thing), the BMW can be sporty and classy at the same time - it looks great whether tearing up the twisties, or parked at a nice restaurant.
I'd go with one of these two. The others are either, a) ugly, b) for girls or c) all of the above, i.e.; for male hair stylists.
Other cars for girls but yet you recommend an E46 Cab? Dude, E46 Cab is the ultimate trophy wife car. It's almost embarassing when I drive around my house, hot milfs looking at me like I'm driving my wife's car or something.
Of the E46 cabs I've seen on the road, maybe 70% are driven by chicks haha.
max_boost
07-23-2008, 08:46 PM
The E46 cab was voted the gayest vehicle. It was posted on here way back in the day.
It's been 5 years since I had my S2K and I still miss it occasionally. Every car I've bought since then I wanted to go back to the S2 but I always wounded up getting something with lots of torque instead :D
I think an 06 S2K w/VSA+Comptech Supercharger would make for a great car hehe
95EagleAWD
07-24-2008, 09:32 AM
Originally posted by max_boost
I think an 06 S2K w/VSA+Comptech Supercharger would make for a great car hehe
That's my plan. :thumbsup:
Eleanor
07-24-2008, 09:37 AM
Originally posted by max_boost
I think an 06 S2K w/VSA+Greddy Turbo would make for a great car hehe
Fixed. Turbo spools quick, a lot more low end tq.
r3cc0s
07-24-2008, 09:40 AM
VW EOS
A4 Cab
TT Cab
Boxster
997 Cabriolet
Pedigree and heritage
95EagleAWD
07-24-2008, 10:15 AM
Originally posted by r3cc0s
VW EOS
A4 Cab
TT Cab
Boxster
997 Cabriolet
Pedigree and heritage
The only car with pedigree and heritage there is the 997. The others are just expensive to fix.
japan_us
07-24-2008, 11:32 AM
Originally posted by rage2
Other cars for girls but yet you recommend an E46 Cab? Dude, E46 Cab is the ultimate trophy wife car. It's almost embarassing when I drive around my house, hot milfs looking at me like I'm driving my wife's car or something.
Of the E46 cabs I've seen on the road, maybe 70% are driven by chicks haha.
I was joking around about the girly cars (forgot the *wink).
Anyways, if you're so embarassed, sell your car. Some people don't give a sh!t about what strangers think. To each his own.
If it really boils down to what others will think, he's not doing much better in an S2k, unless he plans on only driving around/with Beyond members.
You know what....forget it. Verts in general make one question ... You want a fun summer ride? Get a bike. ;)
Graham_A_M
07-24-2008, 04:56 PM
Also, check out an '03 Z4 with the 2.5L as you can get the auto's for quite cheap, as in $20k for that said car.
The six speeds will be more around the mid 20k mark, the 3.0I 6 speeds will be around the $32-40k
A '03 Z4 3.0I 6speed is a very fast and fun little car. I have an '04 and I love it to bits, I really do. Make sure you get the sport or premium package, as the top is then fully automatic, along with all the creature comforts you could ever want.
The M54 (3.0I) is a fantastic engine, zero maintenence, and very ready & usable power whenever you want it. 235hp and 184 torque. A buddy told me it produces 80% of its torque at 2200rpm. I dont remember the EXACT numbers but it was right around there stock. Like I say its quite a usuable engine. Some people drive these cars (including the M variant) in the winter and have no problems; abiet with winter tires of course. I'm sure the Stability control and the Traction control would work wonders in that environment. :)
rage2
07-24-2008, 08:11 PM
Originally posted by japan_us
Anyways, if you're so embarassed, sell your car. Some people don't give a sh!t about what strangers think. To each his own.
If I cared what people think, do you think I would've owned both an E46 cab and several SLK's? :rofl:
I know how to pick 'em haha.
schocker
07-25-2008, 07:56 AM
I learned last night that the eos is becoming a douche mobile when I thought it was just a cruiser for gay guys. Trying to race my infiniti from the lights at WOT while giving me the finger out the window while I am just rolling along to turn to go home is neat:rofl:
403Gemini
07-25-2008, 09:45 AM
Originally posted by tentacles
S2000 seems like a nice car, but what makes it $10k nicer than a Miata? Other than being able to tell people your car revs to 10,000 rpm? :dunno:
http://www.kennebell.net/superchargers/mazda/miata/miata.htm
That should make up the difference in HP between the 2... and also give you torque ;)
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