2004 Mazda RX-8 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.55/5 Average
583 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The RX-8 is an all-new car for 2004. Its arrival marks the return of Mazda's rotary engine to the U.S. market. Priced less than Nissan's 350Z, the RX-8 also offers four doors and a usable backseat.

Pros:
  • Low base price, agile handling yet still comfortable enough for daily use, room for four in a pinch.
Cons:
  • Option packages can get expensive, iffy interior ergonomics.

User Reviews:

Showing 211 through 220 of 583.00
  • Dont believe stated fuel economy - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Ive had my 8 since Jan. 04. Just passed 8800 miles. I love everything about this car except one major thing: fuel economy. My last tank was 13 mpg city driving; mainly to and from work. I am VERY disappointed in this number which has been consistent since Ive bought the car. "Lowest True Cost to Own"?! Sorry Edmunds, but the poor fuel mileage should eliminate this car. If I would have known it was THIS bad I would have gotten a different car. Im just tired of filling up every 175 miles or so.

  • Great car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The 8 is the most exciting car Ive ever owned. Its plenty fast (0-60 in between 5.9 and 6.2 seconds, depending on who you talk to) and its amazing handling and 9k rev range are just fun. Take a trip down a winding road, and the car sticks like glue. Better yet, you can put four people comfortably in the car. Weve taken several 500+ mile trips with 3 people in the car, and no ones had any complaints. The engine itself is amazingly smooth and quiet. All in all, a great car.

  • Best Thing On Four Wheels Under 50 Grand - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The RX8 is absolutely the best handling car under $50 thousand, bar none (yes, including even the Boxster). It is also the most FUN you can have on four wheels. Ive owned my velocity red RX8 for just over a year. Its great FUN on twisty mountain roads, and with its 106" wheelbase, its an exceedingly comfortable GT for long road trips. The styling is unique and very distinctive (but not eccentric). Ive replaced the 18" stock wheels with BBS CH Plasma Finish ones which gives it a very elegant, "I gotta have it" look. It turns a lot of heads. Say what the "professional" reviewers will, Id buy this car again in a flash before considering a Porsche Cayman at twice the price.

  • New RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The cockpit is just perfect but the rear seats are not comfortable for adults, but is roomier compared to other coupes.

  • By far the best car ive ever owned - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This car far exceeded my expectations for mazda. It is an extremely fun and inspired car to drive, and gets a lot of attention as well. The best way i can describe the amount of driving pleasure this car sparks, is by referring to the honda s2000. In terms of power delivery, it is very similar to the s2000, in my opinion having better steering feel then the honda, and a much better ride quality, however the shift feel is not quite as good as the honds (but it is still excellent)

  • Fast,Fast,Fast...... - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I love this car so much have had the 350Z and other sports cars...but the style is amazing on this car..much nicer then my BMWs. Its fast and sleek....and its a 4 seater...only draw back is gas.... it eats it like a vette..

  • Wonderful Machine - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Once I test drove one, I simply had to own it. Car is an absolute blast to drive. It drives like its on rails, yet is very smooth and comfortable. Although underpowered compared to other sports coupes, it offers a very smooth power band, with the real fun beginning at 5000rpms. Just an overall wonderful daily sports coupe with so many wonderful features and plenty of power and performance.

  • Fool Mileage - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Awesome driving experience. Constant acceleration through all gears. But I feel slighted by Ford by advertising 18- 24 miles per gallon. I have yet to get more than 14 and my commute is solely highway. Supposedly this will improve in time, but I doubt I will ever see 24 mpg. The interior is well designed, aesthetically speaking, but the materials are cheap and the door panels are easily marked. Acceleration off the line is a bit weak.

  • A performance car that doesnt perform - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have had my RX8 for 18 months and have been to the dealer MULTIPLE times with many different issues. First of all, let me say I love cars and I baby and care for them meticulously. I have had to have the car towed 2 times, I have had 3 flat tires, I have had all the spark plugs replaced, the brake shim kit replaced, and multiple trips to the dealership for recalls. To top it off I only have 8800 miles on the car. I bought snow tires for $900 because I live in VT. That was the least of the problems. It really did quite well in the snow. I am just sick and tired of being tied to the dealership due to constant problems. The car is just not reliable !

  • Nice when it starts - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Ive had this car about a year and have had a major problem with it not starting all the time. They tell me that it is caused from vapor locking. They have replaced several things and it still hasnt solved the problem. Mazda finally agreed to buy it back from me so that I can purchase a RELIABLE car. This car has left me stranded several times. Another dislike is how you have to first leave the car running for 20 minutes before you shut it off.

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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