Okay, when I was looking to replace my 93 SSEi, I did some test driving.
00 SSEi and 02 SSEi along with my 97.
I bought the 97. Why? Okay, AL7 seats obviously BUT
I noted the ride/handling felt more sure footed when in Perform Mode.
The car itself felt as if it was pulling harder through out the power band as compared to the 00-02.
Both spare tire holders were full of water on the 00-02
My 97,93 and my first 93 Did not have this issue.
The Radio lights were have burnt on the 2002
I REALLY love the interior set up and the look of the 00-03 SSEis however, for me there were a few factors, both cars were around the 60,000 mile mark, it seems as if alot of 00-02s had little problems with the DIC and what not.
Overall, my 97 was in EXCELLENT shape, Truly a car that was babied (still is) I think it partially boils down to how the car was taken care of previously, however, it seems like the 00-03 SSEis (SE, SLE as well) were plauged with the same problems..IE leaky truck, bad Intermediate shaft..that kinda thing...
This is just my .02 and things I have noticed while test driving other cars.

I like the steering in my 02 compaired to the steering in my daughters dad'* 95, and they are both SSEi'*.