Miata > s2000 from a safety perspective. Driven a ton of S2Ks and they’re one of the most involved drivers cars. If it’s going to only be your track car, s2000 + roll bar. If you’re going to hit the canyons, I’d personally take an ND3 due to the safety and the overall limits being lower than the s2000, the “fun threshold” I easier to approach. Again, this is all subjective and just opinion.
This is a choice that's easy for me. ND3. Its a forever car as its new. The S2000 is someone elses old forever car and I dont want to deal with parts etc. Lastly, friend of mine died in S2000 accident on a bridge 20 years ago. I know a lot of Mx5 owners and those cars do surprisingly well in accidents and have low insurance rates. ND3 just missing a muffler and coilovers from perfection 👌 I also want modern interior lol, although thats a personal thing 😂 S2000 is a masterpiece from history regardless
Idk. I plan to keep mine forever as this is one of my dream attainable cars. Could say the same about a 997 GT3 if I could afford one, nothing wrong with a well kept used vehicle
@@NayteeDagree. the ND is one of few cars that interest me built past 2010, so the idea of buying something used does not bother me in the slightest. I run an s2k as a track car alongside my 997 GT3 funnily enough
A few years ago I was filling out paperwork online for an ND Miata Club and when I mentioned to my brother I was about to get it, he asked, “why are you getting a Miata when you said your old S2000 was the best car you ever owned?” and then texted me a link to a 2004 with only 32000 miles for sale near me. That’s what’s in my driveway now.
I've had both. S2000 weighs 20% more, so it's a slightly different experience, but for mostly track duty I'd go with the S2000. For daily fun, the Miata is pure automotive therapy and is the vastly better choice.
ND3 all day for me, and it's not even close. The s2k is amazing, but it's not special enough that I would considered it against the modern marvel that is the ND3. Plus I want the modern tech, comforts, features, reliability, etc. The Miata isn't intended to be a track weapon. Its mission is to be the perfect B road companion, which is why the suspension and steering are tuned the way they are. Of course, it can be turned into a track weapon if that's what you want, but it's not made for that out of the box and that's fine by me. The Miata is perfect for the type of driving I like to do and the ND3 is the best iteration yet.
Newer, safer, creature comforts, warranty, with the Miata - imo all irrelevant if it’s going to become a track car that you tow to the track. Fkn send it with the s2k!
@@aaronbryan5095 and you sound like someone who can’t fully wrap their head around a single purpose dedicated track car vs a dual duty street/track setup. A track car build more likely than not involves a bucket seat and harnesses with a HANS down the road, if not immediately. At that point the manufacturer safety compliance standards are much less a factor than the above mentioned safety measures, at least not enough of a difference to sway a purchasing decision. Besides, out of all those factors from my initial point, if safety is the only thing you’re going to nitpick about then my point still stands that the s2k is the choice.
Easy choise if only a track toy. The Honda, even though it is an old design. Made to track. Still relevant today for that purpose. If it was going to be a daily, with some track time. The Miata with suspension upgrades would be a better car. Newer, modern, less track focused drive train. I owned a 90' 92 autocross car, and a 93le. The 93le was my favorite canyon driver. Fcm softer bump stops to give the car suspension travel🙄. They have the R suspension , so they sit on the bump stops. They sit about an inch lower than a stock miata. Added Jackson racing sways and a Lanny street alignment. Really a fast car on the twisties. Been looking at the newer nd3 Miata. I would have to buy a used one. Can't justify putting around $3000 in suspension, and exhaust to make the car fun for me by buying a brand new one. The other thing is I would have to sell my weekend car to buy a Miata. 2019 mustang Bullitt. Heavy muscle car that loves the corner. Magnaride suspension with Ford racing upgrades. Springs, sways, and a flash for the computer. Just works. Flat, but full suspension with compliance , even on bad roads. Very fast controllable car. Track it, never. Too nice to beat up.
It has to be the ND2+ for street and/or track if you want either fun or performance. All the selling points for an s2k are surpassed by the miata now. Chassis? Miata. s2k was never as stiff as people think. A common mod is chassis bracing for a reason. Aftermarket? Miata. Less weight? Miata. Aerodynamics? Miata. 0-60? Miata. The ND2/3 even has more torque. This is not a bait comment or biased comment as I love them both but its hard to justify an s2k when a better car exists in every way for cheaper. The s2k does have a more powerful engine, true, but the extra power is negated by the 550lbs extra it has to carry so their quarter mile times are pretty much the same.
I worked in racing for 20+ years… pro tip buy a used race car with proper safety equipment and buy whatever street car you want. Don’t try to combine them.
S2K steering is much better with coilovers, wider wheels than the 205 at the front (either 225 staggered or 255 square) and then as you said a proper wheel alignment. You’ll be doing this anyway so then the S2K with the engine and gearbox would be the better choice. I’ve had a ND2 and S2000 ap1 and they’re both amazing cars but purely for the driving experience, you know it’s the S2K
Memories. I sold my 2008 S2000 in 2013 with only 10,000 miles! What a dummy. So much character with the VTEC. Many cars since then, currently a '21' MX5 (And a GR Supra). Would like more feel in the steering, I’m anxious to drive a '24' after your review. ✌️
As an NC1 owner, I appreciate when people recognize that it’s not a boat! Gotta try an NC with power mods. A turbo, or even better, a built 2.5L swap (which bolts right up!). I’ve heard those pull like crazy! I’ve seen 400 whp on 2.5L turbo builds.
A stock Miata is much softer and comfy vs the s2k. So of course right now the s2k will feel more emotional. I think you should drive set up versions of both if you havent already!
Man so hard to decide (used to own AP1) but ultimately depends on if it's going to be weekend(ND) vs track(S2k). Don't have enough time to do track so ND comes in little ahead at this moment
Why with all this modern upgrades people still swear the NA has the most desirable driving experience of the lot? My 91 became a continuous repair of parts wearing out and fragility as a whole.Not to mention the fear being in traffic,cautious around SUVs /Monster trucks I developed a fear being in a car so small and soon felt it being a dated vehicle.Track i understand but in todays world its a bit of a liability. Im older and appreciate the newer models and thankful Miata can still be bought new ,which Im now in the market for.Great video and many points to ponder.TNX.
Before you make the final decision, I think you should drive a modded ND2. Specifically with Xidas, an exhaust, intake sound tube mod and bbr 220 kit. The last two specifically (linked examples in replies) will give the engine way more character. The S2000 comes “set up” from the factory while Mazda is selling you a platform.
For track use, I'd go AP2. Specifically AP2 with tune (lower VTEC, increase midrange AUC), square setup, coilovers, alignment, brakes and roll bar. I think your impressions are on the money when you said it's exciting in a way the Miata isn't, largely due to the engine. The sound of the F22C1 in VTEC is amazing, as is the way it makes power all the way to its 8000 rpm redline. I think you'll find the AP2 is fairly forgiving as a track car. If you're used to catching the rear end on the GR86, the AP2 shouldn't be an issue for you. The numb steering isn't the greatest, but you get used to it pretty quickly in my experience. Putting cost aside, the S2000 is more special/sporty than the Miata, which is what I think you're going for.
I think you’re trying really hard on two fronts with this analysis: 1. Delineating honest pros and cons of both cars. And 2. Actively trying to justify that the AP2 is the net-net right choice for you. The second mental gymnastics effort simply relegates the first one as advice for people not named you. You’re smitten by the AP2 and that’s what I predict you’ll buy. You’ll enjoy it so long as you go in with eyes wide open. You recently got rid of the gr86 (predominantly) because the perceived risk of failure on track. It’s not only about $ but a lot of it is about money. So think about the things that can cost you between these two and the one you just sold. You’ll modify for the track and that’ll be similar expenditures (though perhaps more elevated with the s2000. But then you have to account for maintenance and repair. The gr86 (according to a small group of track rats in California) bears an elevated risk of oil starvation. Engine blows and you should get it replace via warranty. If the manufacturer wiggles off the hook, you write a check for $6k. How much might you pay to keep a 20+ year old s2000 running when you cane it on track for 2-5 years? It’s terrific engineering but every mechanical item has its limits. The cost of ownership might be high and you would be wise to sit with that for a minute. The emira is the thing I’ll look forward to hearing about. Back to your track toy. I’d advocate for an ND1. You’ll get it for a song because of its transmission issues (and perhaps have to service that) and get probably 10-12k more headroom to invest in maintaining repairing and upgrading. As much as you profess to love steering feel, you seem pretty quick to ignore that interest area for the Honda’s other charms.
GR86 sale wasn’t primarily due to oil starvation and consumable cost isn’t a factor either. The S2k is just a more emotional and visceral experience. The Miata wasn’t even in contention until the Nd3 because of steering. Situation has changed since filming the video, which I’ll explain in a future video. Might need a dual duty daily/track
@@jubbalandcars thought you said in your video that you didn’t want to take the gr86 to a track - have it fail - and not be able to get it home easily from tracks not close to home for you. Thus limiting you to tracks near you. In this video you did say you were gonna tow the track car, so perhaps it’s just evolving thinking on your part. A dedicated track car sounds like a very expensive hobby to me. There are a lot of expensive things I can do for fun before I’d consider going there, but to each his own. Wonder what has changed for you. Hope it’s nothing associated with your incoming Emira, cause at this point, that’s where I think $100k of enthusiast expenditure is best placed.
honestly, depending on what you do with the engine, the S2000 engine can take track duty very easily and is super reliable when used at the limit. I would suggest to put in a baffled oil pan and a Mugen oil temp thing that starts the cooler earlier. Some people put in a Oil cooler and a larger water cooler, for occasional track use i would say it's not really necessary. If you invest a lot and build the engine and everything around it, you get up to 270 or even 280 HP NA without boring out the the engine (AP1), no other NA 2L 4cyl can do that. The F20C is a very overbuilt engine that is almost like a race engine with forged internals and all the good stuff, research it, it's very interesting it has special friction reducing coatings and even fibre reinforced metal sleves. And a huge reason why the S2000 handles so sharply is that the engine sits behind the front axles which makes it a front-mid engined car thus it rotates like a mid engine car. Also the steering is a let down in a stock S2000, if you put on wider, grippier tires, coilovers and roll bars, the steering actually improves a lot, as if it was always intended that way, the more extreme your setup gets the better the steering gets. Also the car communicates so well with bucket seats that you don't even feel any lack of steering feedback. if you want to remove the last bit of lack of feeling in the steering, just remove the power steering fuse ;). Otherwise there are no knows issues with the car, i can sometimes have some electronical issues like power windows that don't work, but nothing major.
If you really want something crazy, I would get NC3 Miata and do kswap on it, hydraulic steering, K24 would produce lot of power, more space, capable platform but still lightweight, transmission holds better than ND, you can fit bigger roll bar etc.
I have the s2000, I met you at the Kaiju shop. I would go with the Miata and put ohlins on it. There is a guy in japan that tracks both. TarmacMeister. Most valuable thing is to be able to grow with a vehicle. Since it sounds like you are just gonna go straight to moding, it won't be the same. One reason I say go with Miata. But as said in another post, you should consider getting a pure race car. Not a compromised road car used for a track.
Had a 2005 AP1 and now own a 2019 ND2 … S2k will always be my favorite car. The ND with it’s weight advantage is a lot of fun at low speeds and in tight corners though. S2k is just more special and the old VTEC is something every car-guy should experience at least once 😄
S2K is "oh shit I might die" fun, Miata is hilariously fun because you feel like you are karting on the street. I have an S2K and love it but the new miata is awesome and I had a great time renting one on turo when I was in Cali.
If you plan swap the CX-50 for a tow vehicle then S2000 you have the freedom to mod and trailer to track days. Otherwise MX-5 with its new safety tech would be comfortable driving itself to track. Plus new car probably better financing rate. Look forward to seeing what you get! Would you have to install roll bars?
Anywhere but a track, the MX5 is gonna be the better choice. Owned many S2ks and finally settled on an MX5 Club that is just a better package in every way on the street.
Yes, the s2k is a raw organic drivers car that is much more serious than the fun roadster. However, it would be really interesting to see how the new miata performs on track as well! The s2k is my dream car but the price is so inflated!
Depending upon how many track modifications you do, the S2 thousand will maintain its value and possibly go up.. While the Miata will most assuredly depreciate in value.
Any S2 thousand is great but I do prefer an ap1 over an ap2. As for the Miata, I think you’re looking at the wrong generation especially if it’s just going to be a track toy why not like an NB one that has great steering and a bolt action style shifter that similar to the S 2000 and if the engine is anemic, you could do a kswap and then you have lighter S 2000 with better steering. Plus an NB you can order exocet you have a very hard-core under 1800 pounds track weapon similar to an aerial atom
I always liked the MX5, all series but i never bought one. I have S2000 for 14 years now. A 2002 AP1 with 9000rpm redline and i still love it so much.❤ For me it is a weekend summer car, as my only car all year i would not like it so much because it is not so practical and it can bite you on wet roads. With the roof up, the view around you is not that good. Prizes raised so a new(er) MX5 ND is a good alternative.
Still a noob here, don't understand how changing the mechanics (suspension etc) will lead to better feedback for an EPS? From what I understand, if were were to look at the rack in isolation, then it is the software that controls the feedback, which is why when they tweak the software, the feedback and everything else on the steering changes. So, when you change the suspension, is it the rack that improves, or it is the vibrations and feedback on the chassis, that in turn is transferred to the steering wheel?
The seats you showed when mentioning the Recaro seats are not the recaro seats. They are the Mazda leather seats. The Recaro seats are Alcantara and leather and say Recaro in the back of the seat.
Savagegeese said: S2K for track toy, Miata for fun on the street/canyons... I love sliding my ND3! but It need an exhaust and maybe öhlins and swaybars for more hardcore users👌🏻
S2K is the emotional choice and MX5 the logical one. The S2K just has “it” that the MX5 gets close to but doesn’t match. It will require more attention and care due to the age. Can’t go wrong with either but your laugh after VTEC says it all 👍 Edit - I wrote most of my response before watching the whole video. Apparently we are two peas in a pod.
@@jubbalandcars if you can afford to make the emotional choice then there’s only one choice with zero downside - you won’t lose if you sell Is it really going to be a track only car? If so you are better off buying a built and caged ready to go car before you dump $30K+ into track prepping and devaluing a stock one and realizing it’s not for you. If it will still be seeing street time then before you build carefully think whether you want a trackable street car or a streetable track car. Just my 2c to prevent some common mistakes.
At 4:57 you speak about how people with automatic NDs don't drive them like those with a manual do. This is mostly true. I am proud to say that when my Dad bought a 2016 ND1 with an auto, I had that bitch smashing cones with less than 3k on the odo. Didn't take long before I had him autocrossing as well. We had more fun in that thing with nothing more than a performance oriented alignment. (That should be the very first mod to ANY NDx, stock alignment tolerances are laughable. Alignment alone made a dramatic improvement on ours) Anyway, between my Dad, my brother , myself, and various friends and family, we beat on that car for many years, and recently sold it to my 18 year old cousin. Zero problems to report, it only received basic maintenance.
None of those useless features that you mentioned for the nd3 are nessesary or important. What is important is now the car does not snap oversteer in the bends. So you will enjoy it without hitting a tree. This is the most important change for the nd3 and because of that we can now say its the best sports car for sale today
Sounds like you have an emotional attachment to the s2000. That's cool, I tend to gravitate to those decisions as well, but sometimes getting into something new can be more rewarding. Sometimes I need to push myself for that. Just a thought, if it helps you out with your decision. For me, I want a 2024 mx-5; but for 35k, I could get an older model (2010 ish) Boxster and still have 15k in the bank for repairs (and fuckin gas). I don't really have experience with Porsches, so it's hard for me to really know, you know?
Now if you were to go from these and go to the original GT86 you may re-discover how oddly exceptional the EPAS system was in the original 86. E. verytme I drive mine I'm surprised at the feeling it has for a non hydraulic system. I don't feel much wanting. But if you handed me an S2000 2005 or older I would have to say yes. everything around the steering is just too amazing.
@@jubbalandcarsHey there Jubbal…The NC Miata soft top weighed approx 2511lbs, and the NC PRHT weighed approx 2593lbs. I owned a 2014 Club PRHT, and now own a 2013 Club soft top. Honestly I should have held on to the NC because of the hard top and hydraulic steering.
Get the ap1 s2k if its going to be your track car. Also s2k aint gonna depreciate as much. I love my nd2 but what i hate how I ready lost 10k in depreciation driving only 35k miles on it 😢
I had the V Tech experience in a 1997 Acura Integra GSR for 17 years. Yes it was a thrill to that 8,000 red line in each gear. Had a 2014 Honda Accord V6 Coupe with a 6 speed manual. That is what got traded in for my 2016 MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package. The difference was night & day. The MX-5 is so light weight so nimble in comparison to the Accord Coupe. Now that GSR Integra for being a front wheel drive car had incredible handling. My MX-5 Club is about 220 pounds lighter than that GSR & its handling is made a little better by the fact its rear wheel drive. Add its a convertible & the fun factor is way up. I think the ND3 with its upgrades is a better Miata. I think I'm going to let my ND1 Club go for the 2024 ND3 Club that I ordered. The minor improvements made by Mazda engineers over the course of 8 years have added up to something that cannot be ignored. Progressively better is what I'm hoping to feel very soon.
Did you like the 6 speed Accord? I almost bought one last summer from a Honda dealer in British Columbia. It was a nice blue 2014 six speed with only 48 thousand kms on it,it got sold and shipped to Vancouver before I could get there😞
@@Whateva67 It was a good car except for the crash mitigation system. Also it had a eco mode switch which was the better choice because in 1st gear without ECO on it would go up to 22 mph without the foot on the gas ! ECO mode let you control the throttle much better. The seats were great & the storage area huge when the back seats were down. Mine was Black on Black with " Accord " lighted in blue on the door sills when the doors opened.
@@ag4allgood oh right on. This Accord I saw was almost in new condition. I wanted to trade in my 14 Civic coupe plus cash for it but didn’t get there in time.
I don't think these comparisons make any sense. Cars today are so much better than 25 years ago in almost all ways. Another guy made a video of how he preferred a NC over the ND. It's a nice fantasy but no way. The MX5 has been improved and improved and improved on all parameters.
My vote is a Soul Red Crystal Metallic Miata, BBR optioned and quickly outfitted with Xida coilovers (12k/6k), Karcepts bars, Titan 7 R8 wheels, 200tw's, alignment, ect ftw. The S2000 is sooooo dated. Signed, owner of a Miata, identical to what I think you should get. 😎
s2k isnt that great of a track car anymore tbh, a stock new brz/gt86 beats it around the track and the new miatas match them this is proven fact . its all nostalgia juice with the s2k and they are getting expensive to mod/repair .
That’s very dependent on the driver, there’s by no means much difference at all so if you’re a person that prefers a car that is more visceral, collectable and harder to drive fast then you get an S2K, if you prefer modern comforts and convenience you get a BRZ
Hey man don't call your car a "track toy" it has a name and is it's own car with it's own personality. It's not just some "toy" you can play with whenever you like, you have to treat her properly.
@@patrickbateman7122 Brz/frs - most practical best first car of the 3 because it’s the most approachable at the limit and over the limit. Most interior space of the 3. Reasonably quiet. Best daily of the 3. Poor inputs - Clutch and throttle tuning are difficult and non intuitive. Agricultural engine that just gnashes away with zero emotion and engine issues are always a concern ND - fun, tiny, tossable, hilarious slides, still easy to control, mid corner adjustable. Engine sounds good w exhaust and has new car amenities. Small inside. Shifter feels like a toy. Throttle response decent but not like a cable. Engine lacks drama. S2K - the most dramatic and bipolar. The definition of throttle response and clutch/shifter feel. Edgy limit behavior even on ap2 makes it the most challenging to drive and also the most rewarding to drive. You drive it with your butt and requires the most attention. Feels totally broken off vtec requires the most out of driver techniques to keep the engine on tap and the chassis balanced or over the edge. Need quick hands feet. You feel like a hero when you get everything right. Small focused interior with the least amenities. Loud.
Miata > s2000 from a safety perspective. Driven a ton of S2Ks and they’re one of the most involved drivers cars. If it’s going to only be your track car, s2000 + roll bar. If you’re going to hit the canyons, I’d personally take an ND3 due to the safety and the overall limits being lower than the s2000, the “fun threshold” I easier to approach. Again, this is all subjective and just opinion.
This is a choice that's easy for me. ND3. Its a forever car as its new. The S2000 is someone elses old forever car and I dont want to deal with parts etc. Lastly, friend of mine died in S2000 accident on a bridge 20 years ago. I know a lot of Mx5 owners and those cars do surprisingly well in accidents and have low insurance rates. ND3 just missing a muffler and coilovers from perfection 👌 I also want modern interior lol, although thats a personal thing 😂 S2000 is a masterpiece from history regardless
Spot on man
Idk. I plan to keep mine forever as this is one of my dream attainable cars. Could say the same about a 997 GT3 if I could afford one, nothing wrong with a well kept used vehicle
Rest in peace to your friend ❤
@@NayteeDagree. the ND is one of few cars that interest me built past 2010, so the idea of buying something used does not bother me in the slightest. I run an s2k as a track car alongside my 997 GT3 funnily enough
A few years ago I was filling out paperwork online for an ND Miata Club and when I mentioned to my brother I was about to get it, he asked, “why are you getting a Miata when you said your old S2000 was the best car you ever owned?” and then texted me a link to a 2004 with only 32000 miles for sale near me. That’s what’s in my driveway now.
I've had both. S2000 weighs 20% more, so it's a slightly different experience, but for mostly track duty I'd go with the S2000. For daily fun, the Miata is pure automotive therapy and is the vastly better choice.
fully agree
ND3 all day for me, and it's not even close. The s2k is amazing, but it's not special enough that I would considered it against the modern marvel that is the ND3. Plus I want the modern tech, comforts, features, reliability, etc. The Miata isn't intended to be a track weapon. Its mission is to be the perfect B road companion, which is why the suspension and steering are tuned the way they are. Of course, it can be turned into a track weapon if that's what you want, but it's not made for that out of the box and that's fine by me. The Miata is perfect for the type of driving I like to do and the ND3 is the best iteration yet.
Newer, safer, creature comforts, warranty, with the Miata - imo all irrelevant if it’s going to become a track car that you tow to the track. Fkn send it with the s2k!
You sure sound like someone who's really down to earth, NOT. The benefits of a safer car are still relevant when driving on the track.
@@aaronbryan5095 and you sound like someone who can’t fully wrap their head around a single purpose dedicated track car vs a dual duty street/track setup. A track car build more likely than not involves a bucket seat and harnesses with a HANS down the road, if not immediately. At that point the manufacturer safety compliance standards are much less a factor than the above mentioned safety measures, at least not enough of a difference to sway a purchasing decision.
Besides, out of all those factors from my initial point, if safety is the only thing you’re going to nitpick about then my point still stands that the s2k is the choice.
these are all the same reasons to have gone with a GR86 though(which he owned and recently sold). Might as well just full send it on a s2k
Easy choise if only a track toy. The Honda, even though it is an old design. Made to track. Still relevant today for that purpose.
If it was going to be a daily, with some track time. The Miata with suspension upgrades would be a better car. Newer, modern, less track focused drive train.
I owned a 90' 92 autocross car, and a 93le. The 93le was my favorite canyon driver. Fcm softer bump stops to give the car suspension travel🙄. They have the R suspension , so they sit on the bump stops. They sit about an inch lower than a stock miata. Added Jackson racing sways and a Lanny street alignment. Really a fast car on the twisties.
Been looking at the newer nd3 Miata. I would have to buy a used one. Can't justify putting around $3000 in suspension, and exhaust to make the car fun for me by buying a brand new one.
The other thing is I would have to sell my weekend car to buy a Miata.
2019 mustang Bullitt. Heavy muscle car that loves the corner. Magnaride suspension with Ford racing upgrades. Springs, sways, and a flash for the computer. Just works. Flat, but full suspension with compliance , even on bad roads. Very fast controllable car. Track it, never. Too nice to beat up.
It has to be the ND2+ for street and/or track if you want either fun or performance. All the selling points for an s2k are surpassed by the miata now. Chassis? Miata. s2k was never as stiff as people think. A common mod is chassis bracing for a reason. Aftermarket? Miata. Less weight? Miata. Aerodynamics? Miata. 0-60? Miata. The ND2/3 even has more torque.
This is not a bait comment or biased comment as I love them both but its hard to justify an s2k when a better car exists in every way for cheaper. The s2k does have a more powerful engine, true, but the extra power is negated by the 550lbs extra it has to carry so their quarter mile times are pretty much the same.
Both amazing, edge to the S2K, agree with the reasons given. Amazing all these years later it’s still the king of roadsters.
I worked in racing for 20+ years… pro tip buy a used race car with proper safety equipment and buy whatever street car you want. Don’t try to combine them.
Boring
S2K steering is much better with coilovers, wider wheels than the 205 at the front (either 225 staggered or 255 square) and then as you said a proper wheel alignment. You’ll be doing this anyway so then the S2K with the engine and gearbox would be the better choice. I’ve had a ND2 and S2000 ap1 and they’re both amazing cars but purely for the driving experience, you know it’s the S2K
Erik's track prepped AP2 S2000 mentioned in the video is my gold standard. Absolutely love that car, and so easy to rotate it with throttle.
Memories. I sold my 2008 S2000 in 2013 with only 10,000 miles! What a dummy. So much character with the VTEC. Many cars since then, currently a '21' MX5 (And a GR Supra). Would like more feel in the steering, I’m anxious to drive a '24' after your review. ✌️
Jeez, when did “whimsical” and “fun” become derogatory terms!?! For my money, that’s the best a sports car can be. That’s what I live for.
Some of these guys take themselves far too seriously.
Dude thinks he’s some kind of sports car messiah. Young physician god complex imo
As an NC1 owner, I appreciate when people recognize that it’s not a boat!
Gotta try an NC with power mods. A turbo, or even better, a built 2.5L swap (which bolts right up!). I’ve heard those pull like crazy! I’ve seen 400 whp on 2.5L turbo builds.
A stock Miata is much softer and comfy vs the s2k. So of course right now the s2k will feel more emotional. I think you should drive set up versions of both if you havent already!
Man so hard to decide (used to own AP1) but ultimately depends on if it's going to be weekend(ND) vs track(S2k). Don't have enough time to do track so ND comes in little ahead at this moment
Why with all this modern upgrades people still swear the NA has the most desirable driving experience of the lot? My 91 became a continuous repair of parts wearing out and fragility as a whole.Not to mention the fear being in traffic,cautious around SUVs /Monster trucks I developed a fear being in a car so small and soon felt it being a dated vehicle.Track i understand but in todays world its a bit of a liability. Im older and appreciate the newer models and thankful Miata can still be bought new ,which Im now in the market for.Great video and many points to ponder.TNX.
Before you make the final decision, I think you should drive a modded ND2. Specifically with Xidas, an exhaust, intake sound tube mod and bbr 220 kit. The last two specifically (linked examples in replies) will give the engine way more character. The S2000 comes “set up” from the factory while Mazda is selling you a platform.
th-cam.com/users/shortsIm65Akqtmko?si=pGpkdgfx4EjJQNoj
th-cam.com/video/-RjzFY6BR1A/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wpEhT5lvb__Qn5I6
got an ND2 lined up soon with a handful of tasteful mods
For track use, I'd go AP2. Specifically AP2 with tune (lower VTEC, increase midrange AUC), square setup, coilovers, alignment, brakes and roll bar. I think your impressions are on the money when you said it's exciting in a way the Miata isn't, largely due to the engine. The sound of the F22C1 in VTEC is amazing, as is the way it makes power all the way to its 8000 rpm redline. I think you'll find the AP2 is fairly forgiving as a track car. If you're used to catching the rear end on the GR86, the AP2 shouldn't be an issue for you. The numb steering isn't the greatest, but you get used to it pretty quickly in my experience. Putting cost aside, the S2000 is more special/sporty than the Miata, which is what I think you're going for.
Very well said
I think you’re trying really hard on two fronts with this analysis: 1. Delineating honest pros and cons of both cars. And 2. Actively trying to justify that the AP2 is the net-net right choice for you. The second mental gymnastics effort simply relegates the first one as advice for people not named you. You’re smitten by the AP2 and that’s what I predict you’ll buy. You’ll enjoy it so long as you go in with eyes wide open. You recently got rid of the gr86 (predominantly) because the perceived risk of failure on track. It’s not only about $ but a lot of it is about money. So think about the things that can cost you between these two and the one you just sold. You’ll modify for the track and that’ll be similar expenditures (though perhaps more elevated with the s2000. But then you have to account for maintenance and repair. The gr86 (according to a small group of track rats in California) bears an elevated risk of oil starvation. Engine blows and you should get it replace via warranty. If the manufacturer wiggles off the hook, you write a check for $6k. How much might you pay to keep a 20+ year old s2000 running when you cane it on track for 2-5 years? It’s terrific engineering but every mechanical item has its limits.
The cost of ownership might be high and you would be wise to sit with that for a minute.
The emira is the thing I’ll look forward to hearing about.
Back to your track toy. I’d advocate for an ND1. You’ll get it for a song because of its transmission issues (and perhaps have to service that) and get probably 10-12k more headroom to invest in maintaining repairing and upgrading. As much as you profess to love steering feel, you seem pretty quick to ignore that interest area for the Honda’s other charms.
GR86 sale wasn’t primarily due to oil starvation and consumable cost isn’t a factor either.
The S2k is just a more emotional and visceral experience. The Miata wasn’t even in contention until the Nd3 because of steering. Situation has changed since filming the video, which I’ll explain in a future video. Might need a dual duty daily/track
@@jubbalandcars thought you said in your video that you didn’t want to take the gr86 to a track - have it fail - and not be able to get it home easily from tracks not close to home for you. Thus limiting you to tracks near you. In this video you did say you were gonna tow the track car, so perhaps it’s just evolving thinking on your part.
A dedicated track car sounds like a very expensive hobby to me. There are a lot of expensive things I can do for fun before I’d consider going there, but to each his own.
Wonder what has changed for you. Hope it’s nothing associated with your incoming Emira, cause at this point, that’s where I think $100k of enthusiast expenditure is best placed.
honestly, depending on what you do with the engine, the S2000 engine can take track duty very easily and is super reliable when used at the limit. I would suggest to put in a baffled oil pan and a Mugen oil temp thing that starts the cooler earlier. Some people put in a Oil cooler and a larger water cooler, for occasional track use i would say it's not really necessary. If you invest a lot and build the engine and everything around it, you get up to 270 or even 280 HP NA without boring out the the engine (AP1), no other NA 2L 4cyl can do that. The F20C is a very overbuilt engine that is almost like a race engine with forged internals and all the good stuff, research it, it's very interesting it has special friction reducing coatings and even fibre reinforced metal sleves. And a huge reason why the S2000 handles so sharply is that the engine sits behind the front axles which makes it a front-mid engined car thus it rotates like a mid engine car. Also the steering is a let down in a stock S2000, if you put on wider, grippier tires, coilovers and roll bars, the steering actually improves a lot, as if it was always intended that way, the more extreme your setup gets the better the steering gets. Also the car communicates so well with bucket seats that you don't even feel any lack of steering feedback. if you want to remove the last bit of lack of feeling in the steering, just remove the power steering fuse ;). Otherwise there are no knows issues with the car, i can sometimes have some electronical issues like power windows that don't work, but nothing major.
I drive a supercharged ap1, forever car for sure. Have yet to drive an nd3, but personally I prefer the driving dynamics of the ap1 over the nd2
If you really want something crazy, I would get NC3 Miata and do kswap on it, hydraulic steering, K24 would produce lot of power, more space, capable platform but still lightweight, transmission holds better than ND, you can fit bigger roll bar etc.
The transmission issues on ND have long since been solved
I'd take the ND just because I want more people to tune and mod these skyactiv engines.
I have the s2000, I met you at the Kaiju shop. I would go with the Miata and put ohlins on it.
There is a guy in japan that tracks both. TarmacMeister. Most valuable thing is to be able to grow with a vehicle. Since it sounds like you are just gonna go straight to moding, it won't be the same. One reason I say go with Miata. But as said in another post, you should consider getting a pure race car. Not a compromised road car used for a track.
Had a 2005 AP1 and now own a 2019 ND2 … S2k will always be my favorite car. The ND with it’s weight advantage is a lot of fun at low speeds and in tight corners though. S2k is just more special and the old VTEC is something every car-guy should experience at least once 😄
S2K is "oh shit I might die" fun, Miata is hilariously fun because you feel like you are karting on the street. I have an S2K and love it but the new miata is awesome and I had a great time renting one on turo when I was in Cali.
thanks so much for this review, I was expecting Fenton to beat you to it 😂
I've been slacking. Will be reviewing an ND3 very soon though!
If you plan swap the CX-50 for a tow vehicle then S2000 you have the freedom to mod and trailer to track days. Otherwise MX-5 with its new safety tech would be comfortable driving itself to track. Plus new car probably better financing rate. Look forward to seeing what you get! Would you have to install roll bars?
Anywhere but a track, the MX5 is gonna be the better choice. Owned many S2ks and finally settled on an MX5 Club that is just a better package in every way on the street.
Yes, the s2k is a raw organic drivers car that is much more serious than the fun roadster. However, it would be really interesting to see how the new miata performs on track as well! The s2k is my dream car but the price is so inflated!
ND3 track review incoming
Depending upon how many track modifications you do, the S2 thousand will maintain its value and possibly go up.. While the Miata will most assuredly depreciate in value.
Good point
Any S2 thousand is great but I do prefer an ap1 over an ap2. As for the Miata, I think you’re looking at the wrong generation especially if it’s just going to be a track toy why not like an NB one that has great steering and a bolt action style shifter that similar to the S 2000 and if the engine is anemic, you could do a kswap and then you have lighter S 2000 with better steering.
Plus an NB you can order exocet you have a very hard-core under 1800 pounds track weapon similar to an aerial atom
Both of them are FMR. Modernized ND3 is better choice in my opinion.
All things considered regarding the improved steering on the ND3, are there ways to improve steering on the ND1/ND2?
Constables could watch this video and mail you a ticket. Might wanna re-upload with more of the s2k speed blurred
I always liked the MX5, all series but i never bought one. I have S2000 for 14 years now. A 2002 AP1 with 9000rpm redline and i still love it so much.❤
For me it is a weekend summer car, as my only car all year i would not like it so much because it is not so practical and it can bite you on wet roads. With the roof up, the view around you is not that good.
Prizes raised so a new(er) MX5 ND is a good alternative.
Dude, you're double the pace in the mx5! That this is set up right.
Still a noob here, don't understand how changing the mechanics (suspension etc) will lead to better feedback for an EPS? From what I understand, if were were to look at the rack in isolation, then it is the software that controls the feedback, which is why when they tweak the software, the feedback and everything else on the steering changes.
So, when you change the suspension, is it the rack that improves, or it is the vibrations and feedback on the chassis, that in turn is transferred to the steering wheel?
The seats you showed when mentioning the Recaro seats are not the recaro seats. They are the Mazda leather seats.
The Recaro seats are Alcantara and leather and say Recaro in the back of the seat.
The Mazda doesn't have the Brembo BBS Recaro package, so it has the regular Mazda seats.
I have one question! If the S2000 is or was so good, why aren't they still in production?
Savagegeese said: S2K for track toy, Miata for fun on the street/canyons... I love sliding my ND3! but It need an exhaust and maybe öhlins and swaybars for more hardcore users👌🏻
S2K is the emotional choice and MX5 the logical one. The S2K just has “it” that the MX5 gets close to but doesn’t match. It will require more attention and care due to the age. Can’t go wrong with either but your laugh after VTEC says it all 👍
Edit - I wrote most of my response before watching the whole video. Apparently we are two peas in a pod.
Very well said. Head vs heart
@@jubbalandcars if you can afford to make the emotional choice then there’s only one choice with zero downside - you won’t lose if you sell
Is it really going to be a track only car? If so you are better off buying a built and caged ready to go car before you dump $30K+ into track prepping and devaluing a stock one and realizing it’s not for you. If it will still be seeing street time then before you build carefully think whether you want a trackable street car or a streetable track car. Just my 2c to prevent some common mistakes.
At 4:57 you speak about how people with automatic NDs don't drive them like those with a manual do. This is mostly true. I am proud to say that when my Dad bought a 2016 ND1 with an auto, I had that bitch smashing cones with less than 3k on the odo. Didn't take long before I had him autocrossing as well. We had more fun in that thing with nothing more than a performance oriented alignment.
(That should be the very first mod to ANY NDx, stock alignment tolerances are laughable. Alignment alone made a dramatic improvement on ours)
Anyway, between my Dad, my brother , myself, and various friends and family, we beat on that car for many years, and recently sold it to my 18 year old cousin. Zero problems to report, it only received basic maintenance.
None of those useless features that you mentioned for the nd3 are nessesary or important. What is important is now the car does not snap oversteer in the bends. So you will enjoy it without hitting a tree. This is the most important change for the nd3 and because of that we can now say its the best sports car for sale today
Sounds like you have an emotional attachment to the s2000. That's cool, I tend to gravitate to those decisions as well, but sometimes getting into something new can be more rewarding. Sometimes I need to push myself for that. Just a thought, if it helps you out with your decision.
For me, I want a 2024 mx-5; but for 35k, I could get an older model (2010 ish) Boxster and still have 15k in the bank for repairs (and fuckin gas). I don't really have experience with Porsches, so it's hard for me to really know, you know?
Both great cars but i would do mx5
Now if you were to go from these and go to the original GT86 you may re-discover how oddly exceptional the EPAS system was in the original 86. E. verytme I drive mine I'm surprised at the feeling it has for a non hydraulic system. I don't feel much wanting. But if you handed me an S2000 2005 or older I would have to say yes. everything around the steering is just too amazing.
First gen 86 has excellent steering no doubt
@@jubbalandcarsHey there Jubbal…The NC Miata soft top weighed approx 2511lbs, and the NC PRHT weighed approx 2593lbs. I owned a 2014 Club PRHT, and now own a 2013 Club soft top. Honestly I should have held on to the NC because of the hard top and hydraulic steering.
If it was weekend car instead of track car, would you go ND3 instead?
Love it when you jam gears in a manual tyranny
The CX-50 Turbo should be capable of towing either of these cars.
3500lb limit. Doesn’t tow vehicle + trailer at that limit
@@jubbalandcars Tesla (and Motortrend) towed a Porsche 911 on a 900 lb trailer. Video out just a couple of days ago!
Get the ap1 s2k if its going to be your track car. Also s2k aint gonna depreciate as much. I love my nd2 but what i hate how I ready lost 10k in depreciation driving only 35k miles on it 😢
Please review a Lotus Elise 111R
Would love to
I’d go Miata. Just my preference I drove a s2000, too snug for my anatomy.😅
Interesting I’m more cramped in the ND than the S2K
Love the sound of the Honda S2000 ❤ take the Honda S, looks better and Miatas are everywhere.
S2Kay all the way
Love the chanel...but 2024 vs 2006😳😳😳😳😳🤔🤔🤔🤔. I love both cars. ❤
Any chance that road will be improved in my lifetime?
😂
My best guess is. when he goes home, he hops in his new Bentley and has nothing to complain about the rest of the day.
McLaren P1*
Well, I went with the S2000. No regrets.
I had the V Tech experience in a 1997 Acura Integra GSR for 17 years. Yes it was a thrill to that 8,000 red line in each gear. Had a 2014 Honda Accord V6 Coupe with a 6 speed manual. That is what got traded in for my 2016 MX-5 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package. The difference was night & day. The MX-5 is so light weight so nimble in comparison to the Accord Coupe. Now that GSR Integra for being a front wheel drive car had incredible handling. My MX-5 Club is about 220 pounds lighter than that GSR & its handling is made a little better by the fact its rear wheel drive. Add its a convertible & the fun factor is way up. I think the ND3 with its upgrades is a better Miata. I think I'm going to let my ND1 Club go for the 2024 ND3 Club that I ordered. The minor improvements made by Mazda engineers over the course of 8 years have added up to something that cannot be ignored. Progressively better is what I'm hoping to feel very soon.
Did you like the 6 speed Accord? I almost bought one last summer from a Honda dealer in British Columbia. It was a nice blue 2014 six speed with only 48 thousand kms on it,it got sold and shipped to Vancouver before I could get there😞
@@Whateva67 It was a good car except for the crash mitigation system. Also it had a eco mode switch which was the better choice because in 1st gear without ECO on it would go up to 22 mph without the foot on the gas ! ECO mode let you control the throttle much better. The seats were great & the storage area huge when the back seats were down. Mine was Black on Black with " Accord " lighted in blue on the door sills when the doors opened.
@@ag4allgood oh right on. This Accord I saw was almost in new condition. I wanted to trade in my 14 Civic coupe plus cash for it but didn’t get there in time.
I don't think these comparisons make any sense. Cars today are so much better than 25 years ago in almost all ways. Another guy made a video of how he preferred a NC over the ND. It's a nice fantasy but no way. The MX5 has been improved and improved and improved on all parameters.
Recaros sit to high for track with roll bar
My vote is a Soul Red Crystal Metallic Miata, BBR optioned and quickly outfitted with Xida coilovers (12k/6k), Karcepts bars, Titan 7 R8 wheels, 200tw's, alignment, ect ftw.
The S2000 is sooooo dated.
Signed, owner of a Miata, identical to what I think you should get. 😎
GR86 lol jk. but imo since you just got out of that platform it makes more sense to go S2000.
Why the hell would you choose an old S2000, one that hasn't been in production for about 10 years, over a new MX-5? I think it's all bullshit.
🤔
Why are you driving the miata around in 4th gear on the highway? Shift it! The 6th gear is 1:1
i'm a rebel
S2000 is a dream car but they are trashed and expensive, unfortunately. You can almost get an Nd2 for the same price.
s2k isnt that great of a track car anymore tbh, a stock new brz/gt86 beats it around the track and the new miatas match them this is proven fact . its all nostalgia juice with the s2k and they are getting expensive to mod/repair .
That’s very dependent on the driver, there’s by no means much difference at all so if you’re a person that prefers a car that is more visceral, collectable and harder to drive fast then you get an S2K, if you prefer modern comforts and convenience you get a BRZ
The track is not just about “beating” people though, it’s the way the car makes you feel
This guy needs to pull the car over, give it back to the dealership and buy an old S2000 and at the same time forget about the videos.
😂
We all know what u want never seen someone giggle like a little girl that much b4 just jokes tho I already know what you gonna get 😂😂😂
Hey man don't call your car a "track toy" it has a name and is it's own car with it's own personality. It's not just some "toy" you can play with whenever you like, you have to treat her properly.
no brainer ND3, S2k is an old weekend car.. hard to get parts..
S2000 has better transmission to some Porsches... Lol..
Kids can’t get past the badge eh
As a long time s2000 owner buy the new car don't be dumb
I think the S2000 looks like shit.
Looks better than all BMWs 😂
You either got dusted by one or you can’t afford one 😂which is it lmfao
@@bige7186 Yes, i got dusted by one in my in my M3 comp Xdrive.
It's in neutral!! how can you not tell this haha Funny Evo thinks S2K are one of the most overrated cars but i've never driven one...
How do you know it's overrated when you've never driven it?
@@Perfectionyx i didn't. I said Evo thinks it is but I've never driven one..
I found that to be odd as well and I love their magazine. They love the FL5 and hate the S2000 and I feel the opposite about both
@@dreamdrivedrift i would love to test one! Can you compare it to a GR86/FRS?
@@patrickbateman7122
Brz/frs - most practical best first car of the 3 because it’s the most approachable at the limit and over the limit. Most interior space of the 3. Reasonably quiet. Best daily of the 3. Poor inputs - Clutch and throttle tuning are difficult and non intuitive. Agricultural engine that just gnashes away with zero emotion and engine issues are always a concern
ND - fun, tiny, tossable, hilarious slides, still easy to control, mid corner adjustable. Engine sounds good w exhaust and has new car amenities. Small inside. Shifter feels like a toy. Throttle response decent but not like a cable. Engine lacks drama.
S2K - the most dramatic and bipolar. The definition of throttle response and clutch/shifter feel. Edgy limit behavior even on ap2 makes it the most challenging to drive and also the most rewarding to drive. You drive it with your butt and requires the most attention. Feels totally broken off vtec requires the most out of driver techniques to keep the engine on tap and the chassis balanced or over the edge. Need quick hands feet. You feel like a hero when you get everything right. Small focused interior with the least amenities. Loud.