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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  Joy to Own - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Kap - October 2 - 8:56 am

  This is a wonderful GT style car that is comfortable and entertaining.

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  Help the owners of these cars - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By SAD - October 1 - 6:20 am

  I had the 2004 rx8 car broke down every month. Had to have a new motor at 12000 miles, got started vibrating shaking so bad and then it would knock off. I hated to drive the car i was so afraid it would leave me stranded somewhere. Then it got to the point it would flooded itself i was so discussed with this car. Had to get an attorney. Mazda finally bought the car back it was a lemon. Cute car but worse car i ever had.

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  More than I expected! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By veedubman - September 23 - 10:00 am

  I have never been a Mazda fan, but I liked the last generation RX-7, which is the reason for checking this car out. I have been very happy do far. Everyone should experience the free- revving nature of the rotary engine. The interior is heads and shoulders above all the other sports cars in its price range. The ride is very compliant for such a good handling car on 18" wheels. It has a great shifter and the interior is much better than I expected. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  Get some ROOM-ROOM with your ZOOM-ZOOM!! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Ant - September 23 - 1:56 am

  Researched and test drove several cars before deciding on the 8. GTO, Mustang, A3, G35s, 3 series, S2000, TSX, Tc, etc. None had a better combination of performance, handling, value, room, and looks than the 8. Good power, excellent handling, exceptional 6 sp trans., great brakes, wonderful steering, all make for a perfect 10 in "fun to drive". Gas mileage is below average..but, you knew that. :) Exterior styling is sharp and full of "character" and car is exclusive (not easy in SoCal). Interior is comfortable and well thought out with very good materials. Roomy back seat with good access. Trunk space is generous for a sports car, but the opening is a bit small. Overall, this 8 is The One.

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  Amazing car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By RX-8 - September 18 - 11:23 am

  This car is everything you want in a car and more. I lvoe this car. I plan to get every model. ALso withs its rotary powered engine this car drives like a dream. I would suggest this car to everyone.

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  You Gotta Drive this car!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Wildcatsare1 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Picked mine up yesterday, what a fun car to drive. Its fast, the engine sounds great, its comfortable (62"), and its beautiful. I disagree with the earlier review about the interior looking cheap, far from it. Its superior to the 350Z, more in line with a Boxter.

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  Driving Perfection! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By m10ant - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This car was definitely worth the wait. Exterior styling is head turning both literally and figuratively. Rotary engine sound is music. Im so impressed with this cars responsiveness: acceleration, handling, and braking are superb! They far exceed any expectation I may have had. A complete joy to drive!!

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  Still a treat to drive after 3 years! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By dna - August 31 - 12:00 pm

  I dont know of a better handling sports car for less than 5 times the price. The ride is firm, but comfortable. I am blown away with how comfortable a long distance cruiser the RX-8 is. I get 20 mpg combined city/hwy with spirited, but legal, driving. The rotary engine responds well to some pampering. I use 4 oz synthetic 2-cycle oil and 4 oz Lucas Upper Cylinder Lube in every 10 gallons of gas. Thats probably why my mileage is better than most. Even a mechanic at the dealer commented that it was the smoothest running RX- 8 he had ever heard. The off-the-line grunt is weak, but once you get the revs up to 5000 rpm it is a winner. Drive the rotary right (high rpm) and you will be thrilled!

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  Zoom Zoom Zoom - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By MDM - August 29 - 6:46 pm

  This is my third Mazda Rotary vehicle (following a 1988 RX-7 GXL, and a 1994 3rd Gen RX-7), and I have to say I am pretty happy with it. I hadnt planned on getting another car, but my 15 year old 3rd gen RX-7 was totaled almost a month ago :-(, And I KNEW the "8" couldnt match the 3rd gens stellar performance since the "8" is 300-400 pounds heavier, about 110 less horsepower (Id had some things done to my 3rd gen) and doesnt benefit from the 3rd gens 50-some-odd better low end torque (compliments of that sequential twin turbo setup). But I knew these things off the bat. But the one thing thats still the same is the razor sharp cornering ability! And the smoothness of the rotary.

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  Well its pretty - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Jonathan heeps - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Erratic shifting with the automatic...