Which should I buy, 2003 or 2004??
05-21-2004, 08:26 PM
#11
Former Moderator
std63,
The changes were more significant between '03 and '04 than for any previous model year, especially with regards to the drivetrain. In quick non specific terms, the engine displacement was upped 10%, the redline was lowered 1000 RPM's, some of the transmission gear ratios were changed, and the suspension was significantly altered. You should make sure you have researched all of these changes before deciding. There are numerous threads on S2KI about the differences. All of that being said, I'd love to have an '03 and would avoid the '04. But that's from a guy who's had an '00 since 10/99 so I'm biased. Whatever you decide you'll have a great sportscar if you get either one. Enjoy!!!
Aaron
The changes were more significant between '03 and '04 than for any previous model year, especially with regards to the drivetrain. In quick non specific terms, the engine displacement was upped 10%, the redline was lowered 1000 RPM's, some of the transmission gear ratios were changed, and the suspension was significantly altered. You should make sure you have researched all of these changes before deciding. There are numerous threads on S2KI about the differences. All of that being said, I'd love to have an '03 and would avoid the '04. But that's from a guy who's had an '00 since 10/99 so I'm biased. Whatever you decide you'll have a great sportscar if you get either one. Enjoy!!!
Aaron
05-21-2004, 09:55 PM
#13
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Wow, $25,500 for a new '03 is a phenominal price. I bought a new '02 this December and paid $26k, which was a pretty good price. I test drove an '04 as well, and can only say that personal preference is the deciding factor. I liked the '04, but couldn't pass up the price I got on my car.
One word of caution (I don't know where Milburn is), but if you're in north Jersey, DON'T BUY FROM PLANET HONDA in Union. Their customer service has been miserable. The attitude of the sales manger is downright offensive too. Finally, if they quoted you $25.5k, you'll probably go back and find out that they've "lost" the original quote, then give you a new # far above the original (speaking from experience). -End Rant-
Anyway, at $25,500, the '03 would be hard to pass up.
One word of caution (I don't know where Milburn is), but if you're in north Jersey, DON'T BUY FROM PLANET HONDA in Union. Their customer service has been miserable. The attitude of the sales manger is downright offensive too. Finally, if they quoted you $25.5k, you'll probably go back and find out that they've "lost" the original quote, then give you a new # far above the original (speaking from experience). -End Rant-
Anyway, at $25,500, the '03 would be hard to pass up.
05-22-2004, 04:59 AM
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The '04 is written up in all the auto magazines as being a softer and less edgy car. It is heavier and contrary to myth even though displacement is up power is the SAME. NO INCREASE. Performance test indicate that the '04 is slower than the '03. Get an '03 if you can even locate one. Honda really blew it with the '04 and sales are down as a result. Fans of the S2 were looking for real improvements for '04 and instead got a hand job. Oh yeah, the '04 redlines at 8k instead of 9k. You haven't lived until you have heard and felt an '03 or prior S2K scream to 9000 RPM.
