I miss having a convertible.

I am shopping for a convertible in the $35,000 range.

I have considered a new Honda S2000 which I can get for 31,000.

I am also considering a used Boxster S. I would prefer a 2003+ since it has the glass rear window but it may end up higher then my budget.

Any opinions or car suggestions?

 

David,
I've been very impressed and have enjoyed my S2000. It's a great roadster especially considering the price! Drive one and you'll know if it's for you.
-Glen

 

Mr. T,

I have driven a 2001 and enjoyed it.

I have yet to drive the 2004 witht the 2.2 liter engine and updated transmission. I understand they also stiffened the body some more.

S2000 seems like a great buy.

 

S2000 hands down. I'd look for a pre-2004 as it's a little more raw and still has the 9k rpm redline. With Honda reliability there is no worry at all about buying used. It is an AWESOME little car.

 

I like the BMW M-cabriolet, the old shape. It's got a great big engine on a platform that can barely keep up with the power. Very intertaining! The cars mentioned can certainly beat it on a number of areas but that thing rocks.

 

S2K.

 

I say you get a Miata and slap on a Flyin' Miata FMII turbo kit (amongst other things).

 

S2K.... I would get a pre '04 too, but there are disadvantegs and advanteges

Advanteges:
9000 RPM red line
Cheaper
A little more raw

Disadvanteges:
The '04 has more tourqe and a slightly better interior
The reason why they went from 9000 RPM to 8000 RPM was because there were some reliability issues with having such a high red-line... so you might expect some problems on the pre '04s if you drive it hard for extended periods of time...

 

murcielago barchetta
EDIT: missed a zero there LOL

 

that is completely untrue. they dropped the redline because of the increased displacement which they wanted for more low end torque. In essence they just shifted the powerband down. It was not in response to any reliability issues whatsoever because for the most part there haven't been any.

www.s2ki.com is your friend.

-Steve

 

The new engine is only for the NA market. The rest of the world still gets the 9000rpm redline.

 

I have an '02 S2000 also. It is a fun little car. Unfortunately, the steering has no feel in normal driving (including dull off center response), it's my greatest dislike with the car. IMHO, a lack of steering feel in a sports car, especially one as focused as the S2000, is a major oversight. What baffles me is they gave the car a race car like shifter - short throws, a compact gate and shift lever stops - but installed a steering rack which feels like it's out of an accord (I'm exaggerating a little). The car could be so much more enjoyable. On the positive side, the car has a quality feel, it's very solid and almost rattle free. It's got a decent ride, too.

 

interesting. i have always felt that the steering feel is one of the best parts of the car. sure it does not provide as much feedback as a manual rack but compared to most other cars i think it is much better. i guess it is a subjective thing.

One thing is for sure, it has THE BEST shifter feel of any car made.

-Steve

 

Chrysler Crossfire.








But really, I'd say just go test drive the S2000, Z4, and a 350Z and pick the one you enjoy the most. 350Z is a nice car but I've never driven the other two.

 

My 2000 Boxster S with 12K miles original owner?

OK, reread you post....Unbiased!

Um...My boxster S or maybe an Elise?