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:
Showing 91 through 100 of 879.00-
ZOOM,ZOOM --AWESOME! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By melissa ann - January 15 - 2:00 amI purchased the first RX7 in 1979. To this day, it holds its best memories for me - 5 speed, fast, silver, and just plain fun to get into and drive. Late last year I went into the dealer just to look at the new RX-8 and came home with a brand new (silver, again) loaded RX-8. It is awesome and the thrill of being the driver of this 6 speed sports car has topped all other cars, among which have been the RX-7, Datson 300ZX, Jaguar XJS, and Mercedes 300. EVERYONE turns their head when I drive by and everyone asks about it when I park. I love, love, love, it and intend to keep it forever.. Melissa San Francisco, CA
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Great Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By drseid - January 10 - 10:00 amWhile the AT might not have as much HP as the MT, it sure seems like plenty for most driving in my book. The rotary engine is super smooth, and the car has a unique whine to it that really is a joy to listen to. Front seats are fabulous and provide excellent support for even spirited driving. Control placement is also quite good, and interior materials are first rate for this kind of car. If you havent guessed by now, I love the car!
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I Love This car, and so will you. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Marx8 - January 10 - 10:00 amI pre-ordered this car in Jan of 2003. Ive owned it since July 2003. This is an awesome car, and it amazes me how much I still enjoy having and driving it. You cannot beat it for the price. If your a parent with a couple of kids its great. The fact that you can have a sports car, and have room for 4 full size adults amazes me. I could make a long list of all the things thats so great about this car but, it wouldnt fit in the review. If your serious about this car. Do a search and read the message boards. Im going to be owning this car for a long time. I cant think of another car I would want.
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Rotary fun - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By RochesterX8 - January 10 - 10:00 amI have 4k on my Rx8. Love every minute except a particularly nasty March snowstorm here in Rochester NY. get snows or a winter beater! I get looks from everyone from teens to grandpa. Most dont know what it is but like it. I have only seen 3 others in 9 mo. (course 6mo of winter might have contributed!)so it is a special car. I see more TTs and 350zs. It isnt a total rocket but still quite fast and handles as well as my Miata did. Plus my kids (12 & 9) fit and love it! Mileage sucks!
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Trouble from the start - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By fracol4125 - January 5 - 10:00 amI bought the Mazda RX-8 several weeks ago. In just under 2 weeks and less than 600 miles the car broke down. It will not move out of second gear. The dealer has had the car over 6 days and cannot figure out what the problem is. I love the car but if this an indication of the reliability of the car I think Mazda is going to have a real dog on its hand. The fact that Mazda has been unable to determine the problem in over 6 days does not give me a comfort that this is a simple defect.
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RX-8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By TR - December 31 - 5:56 amSolid $25K car. Daily drive over rough roads is comfortable, yet still a blast to drive on any road. Also take it to the track once a month and this completely showroom car holds its own against cars with adjustable shocks and racing compound tires. You do have to keep the RPMs up above 4K, but the rotary has no problem doing this. Im glad Mazda put a 9000 RPM rev limiter on the car or Id have easily zoomed to past 10,000! With just some basic after-market upgrades & driver improvements, the car would be always at the top of the pack.
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Cool Car! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By jesse - December 24 - 11:40 pmSince I bought my RX-8, Ive gotten lots of comments. Too bad Im not still single otherwise I would be able to give more rides. Smooth as silk drive, except in snow and ice with the stock tires. Extremely treacherous --- do not attempt winter driving with these tires. I bought Pirelli Wintersports and have no problem now. Wide range on each gear. Excellent pickup at the 5000-6000 rpm range.
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zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By john bannon - December 15 - 10:00 amlots of fun to drive
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Fun Fun Fun! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By simtek - December 15 - 10:00 amGreat handling...smooth and very linear power band, and you can fit luggage in the trunk AND carry 4 people! I feel like a kid!
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RX7 Touring - 2010 Mazda RX-8
By Franky - December 13 - 10:00 amLeased this vehicle for two years and returned back to the dealership as soon as the lease up. First, the gas mileage is like and worst than a $100k sport car. Second, the car is so under power and you have to push to 5000 rpm in a daily driving like passing on the highway, not in racing with somebody. However for couple thousands under invoice and thousands of incentives kick-in, it is not a bad car at all. It is a best buy for someone who wants a super handling sport car with 4 doors but dont mind of gas mileages and the durability of mechanical parts. Lease could be the best idea.
