which one to buy 02 or 96 250 ?

[spridget]

Both are good bikes, but what are the big differences between these years?

96 250 or 2000

[Aus_Rider_22]

I think they would be both great bikes, but the newer the better in this situation

ASk Psycho393, he has the 2000 YZ250, and it is known for it's broad and linear powerband.

It will have a better suspended package then the older 96 model.
The 96 model will have more stress from wear and in general alot of parts will need replacing soon, if they haven't already been.

[mtk]

No doubt; the 2000. Four years newer will make it a lot easier to find parts (aftermarket) than a 1996.