Hey everyone,

I'd like some opinions. I currently own an '03 RSX and am looking to get a sporty weekend car. The s2k is an obvious choice but i've also noticed the lotus elise. The s2k would be a great car, it is always highly rated and i feel it's now in a mature state (all kinks worked out). However I like the look of the elise, but i question the "kinks" it might have as a first year car.

It comes out may/june of next year and although lotus makes it in europe, it's undergoing MANY changes to come here to the states (cosmetic, transmission, engine, etc). I was wondering how much you guys feel that being a first year car should influence my decision.

Are their any '00' owners who regret not waiting till '01+' ? Even a great company like honda makes mistakes as evident in the TSB's out every year, especially that first one. I'd say lotus would be on par with honda quality since they truely focus on it (and sell to a different market), and the engine/transmission is toyota now...

What do you guys think? Pay the premium MSRP++, get a first year car (with potential issues for a first year car), but have it about 9 months earlier then the 05 (which will probably not be MSRP and have many TSB's fixed)..... how big of a deal are they that first year usually? Oh and then i suppose the dealer will fix them at no charge when they come out, so is getting an 04 that bad? I would look forward to having a rare car, at least for a few months over the summer....

I REALLY appreciate your opinions,
Paul

 

I will be adding the Elise to my driveway but I am debating the hold off as well.

 

I own a 2000 S2000, and I think that people who say, "all first year cars have problems," don't know what they are talking about. Atleast with the S2000. I mean it's not like Honda hasn't built a car before. I don't think the new Elise will be a problem either. It has been around for a few years in Europe, and now it is coming over here with an engine and transmission from a Celica that has also been around for a few years. I think you will be fine with a new Elise. My S2000 has had no problems either.

 

I own a used '00 s2k last year and I personally like the interior better than all of the other years and I like the increased viewing area through the back window. Remember, the changes they make aren't always mechanical and aren't always to everyone's liking.

 

I have had my MY00 for 3.5 years and it has been great. I have had the TSB's done and am very happy with the product. First year or not my 2002 Envoy has had 3 recalls and been in the shop for various repairs on 3 additional occasions. They have been making the Envoy since 1998.

 

I bought my MY00 with 5800 miles on it. 3500 miles later, the only problem I've had is the driver window regulator needed replacement. No regrets here.

 

thanks guys!