The suspension was softened up a bit on later model cars. I wouldn't call it 'poorer' on the earlier models by any stretch of the imagination. It is quite simply firmer (a preferable attribute for...
The vibration (buzzing noise) on decelleration is caused by the clutch springs in earlier models only. It is a cosmetic annoyance only that can be rectified by replacing the clutch with a later...
For the record I have a MY2000 S2000, bought brand new, that has suffered no problems whatsoever other than the frequently talked about clutch deceleration buzz (a cosmetic annoyance only). I had it...
I've never seen knock-offs of an S2000 wheel but I think the 2003's onward come with 17" rims. You could try here for parts from a wrecked one. You might get lucky.
The OEM SO2's in my experience perform acceptably in the wet unless you're pushing the car too hard. Owners in colder climates than ours seem to experience wet weather grip problems more than we do. ...
Or it could have simply been the wide rubber following the road grooves if you were on a less than perfect surface. This is common on stock S2000's (and any car with wide tyres for that matter) and...