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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  Zoom-Zoom in Red - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By ALH - February 27 - 2:00 am

  All I have to say is trying to get on the Freeway in Seattle, especially I-5, has never been so much fun. The dealership I got my RX-8. The staff was beautiful from Start to finish. Does this Red RX-8 ever show dirt on it. The paint concept is great or maybe once you are in it and going, you "Zoom- Zoom" the dirt particles right off. Oh did I mention I am happy about my RX-8; city to highway.............ZZZZZooooMMMMM

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  A few comments - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By mikeber - February 22 - 10:00 am

  The RX-8 mixes a long list of qualities, unlike any other car at present: Low price, design, true sports car character, rear seats, 4 doors, easy access to the rear seats, a wonderful gearbox, sporty seats. Actually, it can be consider a mid engine car, since the engine is located behind the front axle.

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  Fun Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By mkztg - February 21 - 6:03 pm

  The RX-8 is a fun car to drive. It is expensive to drive because of poor fuel economy and if you dont put "Super" in your tank you will get poor performance too. I have had a few warranty issues come up since I bought it but the dealership has been outstanding to respond to fixing these issues. Great car, I really am glad I bought it, I just wish the accessories for it werent so expensive.

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  New owner - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Mark G - February 16 - 8:20 pm

  I just took delivery of my 06 base RX8 6M. Researched the coupe market to death and ended up with the RX8, Ford Mustang GT and Nissan 350Z shortlist. Need 4 seats so Nissan went out. The Mustang went when I knew that the refinement of the RX8 and its looks had won me over. I was concerned about the fuel consumption and cold start procedure but once I drove it home I knew I could live with both of these minor quirks. The look and driving experience are just out of this price league. You can spend twice as much and not get the same feel all round. It is a breath-taking beauty! I got one of the last 06 models at a great price & dealership were excellent.

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  Practical Sports Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By srm858 - January 27 - 10:00 am

  I am very happy with almost all aspects of the car. I have 1300 miles on it and it has loosened up nicely. The seats are excellent and it is quiet and rides very well. A little better visibility in the rear would be helpful and a 6 disc changer should have come with the Bose system. I was quoted $900 for one, outrageous. My mileage has improved to just over 20 in mixed driving. I hope it continues to improve, but Wankels are not know for great mileage. I would highly recommend this car for anyone who wants a sports car they can live with year round.

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  reborn - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By floyd - January 21 - 2:00 am

  THE ROTARY RULES AGAIN!

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  Dream Machine - 2008 Mazda RX-8
  By JB - January 16 - 10:50 am

  Forget about the bad gas mileage reviews, who buys a sports car with great gas mileage in mind anyhow. This car takes corners like the tires and street are velcro counterparts. The interior is as cool looking as the exterior and incredibly comfortable seats.

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  looks fast goes slow - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By lq400 - January 15 - 2:00 am

  Like in my other reviews looks good Handled great Int/Ext great, But you red line before your peek HP. Need to add oil every other fill up Rotarys I dont get them.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By FernandoGator - January 15 - 2:00 am

  The RX-8 is a very good compromise for those of us that want a four seater car and still want to enjoy a true sports car.

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  What a Hoot - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By rgreg182 - January 15 - 2:00 am

  There is no way around it this car is just a kick to drive, we also own a 98 Cobra and the RX is the toy, for muscle its the stang. THe only way to describe the RX is "Its a go-cart on Steroids". Adding oil every couple tankfulls is a bit disconcerting at first but were getting used to it