Overview & Reviews

Most people know that Mazda builds sporty cars. But for some, it's the company's history of building true sports cars with lightweight rotary engines that sets it apart from the competition. The Mazda RX-8 was one of these models, and it enjoys the distinction of being the only one with a four-door configuration, providing reverse-opening rear access doors and a genuinely accommodating backseat. Sold from 2004-'11, the RX-8 didn't change much during its lengthy run.

The heart of the Mazda RX-8 is a 1.3-liter rotary engine with a thrilling 9,000-rpm redline: that is, if you can find one with the six-speed manual transmission. The available six-speed automatic was limited to 7,500 rpm, yielding about 10 percent less horsepower. With either transmission, torque from the rotary engine is very modest, and shoppers should note that this engine is known for both significant oil consumption and poor fuel economy. But with its perfectly balanced weight distribution, sharp steering and svelte 3,000-pound curb weight, the rear-wheel-drive RX-8 is one of the best-handling cars ever made.

User Reviews:

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  INCREDIBLE machine... RX-8 = FUN! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Russ G - October 29 - 3:00 pm

  Had this a month now... UNBELIEVABLE! Have yet to really run her hard as only 600 miles but have already seen the potential. Dealership could be much improved customer service wise, but got TREMENDOUS discount! Traded an 04 Accord for something sporty yet still practical for kids ... thrilled with the choice! Only 2 drawbacks: came with summer tires (live in snowy WI) and could use bigger gas tank (mileage has averaged 21-22mpg). Researched almost every car ... this was the PERFECT choice!

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  Dont bother wasting your money! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By DontbuyRX8 - October 25 - 2:16 am

  This car is horrible, it has spent more time in the shop than on the road. I have had four recalls, over heating problem, flooding, starter, risk of it catching fire! and have had it towed four times to the dealership. It doesnt like hot weather, or cold weather, it is the most unreliable car ever!! I bought it brand new off the show room floor, and I HATE it! Save yourself a lot of headache and go buy a G37 or G37. This morning, went to start it to go to work, it wont start, so guess what, towed again to the dealership. This car stinks! it only has 50 kilometers on it.

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  rotor - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By TeddyNugz - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding.Smooth ride.Seat of the pants handling.Accelerates as if it had turbos.Im keepin this one in the family.

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  Love it! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By TTShirey - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I got mine about a month ago, and Im absolutely thrilled with it. I get a lot of looks, and its a blast to drive.

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  Mazda RX8 after one month - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By bcerussell - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is an absolute delight to drive. It is quick and handles with ease. Strangers stop to comment on its good looks and it is quite a head turner. The ride is smoother and more quiet than a new Volvo I recently drove, and seating is quite comfortable for me at 6 feet and 215 pounds.

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  TO MUCH FUN AND TO MUCH GAS - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Edster444 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I had the car a full 1200 miles now, and I have adjusted it to the point of action. As of now it runs like a sports racing car, and you can hear the engine on both auto and man-auto, as it goes to through the RPMS. It has a great deal of torque and is comfy to be in for long rides.

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  Family rotory rocket! - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By Rex8it - October 11 - 10:23 pm

  Two weeks after I bought the car my wife found out we are having a baby! Im glad I didnt get that Z4! The car has been great over the past 3 months. I have never had it in the shop and it eats corners. My friend races on the track and he was very impressed with the stock handling. Brakes are good and man have I needed them. The steering response and feel is amazing. I love how light and nimble it feels. And what can you say about the engine! It sounds great and has great pep at the high revs. When you are up around 6,500 rpm the thing moves! Not so great at low rpm though. I have to say that the only reason i didnt give it all 10s is because it is not an exotic and I want one!

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  I love this car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Marcia W - October 11 - 9:30 pm

  Traded in a Miata for this car with no regrets so far. I love the interior and titanium grey color. I love the suicide doors where I can put my bags. The back seats are comfy too.

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  Not like anything else on the road - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By graphicguy - October 10 - 2:00 am

  This car gathers attention from young and old wherever it goes. Being a sports car fanatic, the driving experience in this car is nothing short of amazing. I didnt know they could make a car that can do the things this car does...all with speed, finese, composure and grace. Superlative job Mazda!

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  Rattle Trap - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By PilotGM - October 9 - 11:26 am

  Have driven car approx. 2000 miles, vehicle has more squeaks and rattles than my sons 03 Hyundai, very poor quality. I have purchased 3 Mazdas since 12/04 and this one is terrible. Considered trading it back in after a month but would lose $10k after putting $15k down. Will not deal with Mazda or dealer who I have purchased my last 3 cars again. Have always had great luck with Mazda but not this time.