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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  Outstanding - 2008 Mazda RX-8
  By LeConte - March 15 - 3:56 am

  This is my third RX 8 had a 2006 Shinka, a 2007 GT RX8 and now the 2008 40th Aniversary Edition. The looks never stop from people even from those in Porche and other sports cars. The handling is great on this one and much better than the 2007 that I had. As for the gas mileage as many before me have said who when they buy a sports car ask what the gass mileage will be. I have been driving Rotary engine cars going back to the 76 RX4 and I have never tired of driving one. All one has to do is drive one and they will know they have gotten into something special.

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  Perfect GT with sports car moves - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By ss8 - March 11 - 7:00 pm

  All controls buttery smooth and all surfaces look and feel expensive. Still finding thoughtful touches after months of ownership. And the ride and handling ... smooth engine with flat torque curve betray pretty good acceleration. Sound is exquisite. When you decide to brake entering a turn, it is always too early. Ride is supple over bumps, but somehow sporty handling. No other car I have driven has a front end that feels so light when changing directions. Turn-in is immediate. Best of all, handling at limits very forgiving and comfortable (as can be possible). Easy to rotate at limit with throttle and brakes. 21 MPG same as previous 5-speed WRX, not as bad as others said in my experience?

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  Zoom-Zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By kurumaas - March 11 - 10:00 am

  If you enjoy driving through mountain roads at high speeds, this is the car for you!! What a thrill it is to power this machine up the hills and through the turns.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Floating Dragon - March 11 - 10:00 am

  Not too hot on gas mileage but otherwise a great car.

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  Fun to drive, but not enough power - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By NRutkowski - February 29 - 6:00 pm

  The car handles well and is fun to drive around corners. The problem is the lack of real power. Be prepared to downshift several gears to get any usable power. Gas mileage is another big concern. I am getting an average of 18-20 MPG, and I drive mostly on the highway. Everything inside the car in positioned well and within reach (though the digital speedo does take some getting used to). Overall, it is a great car with the lack of passing power and fuel consumption being the only real concerns.

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  2004 RX8 as a weekender. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By themo2v8r - February 12 - 5:50 pm

  This is a great 2nd car. I do not recommend this as a daily though. Gas is fair (12-15mpg), room is A++ and fun factor is off the charts. The RX8 is a great car for attention and getting somewhere quickly, very quickly. To address some reviews that the car has no horsepower, keep in mind most of these people have autos. Also this car was meant to kick but after 4,000 RPMs. A Z will get you off the line, but you will catch up and pass! With a six speed you can 40 in first, 70 in second, 90 in 3rd (never went past 90 yet, I have a good driving record:). I dont recommend driving like that all the time, but if you need to get out of the way fast, you can.

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  RX FOR EXCITEMENT - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By RXCITE - February 8 - 2:00 am

  We need better fuel economy! My 91 MR-2 Turbo gets better than the RX - 21 MPG. Rear seat is great for a 56 person but no taller with me at 61. I can not wait until someone comes out with a supercharger or turbo for this moderate 238 HP 215 torq dream car. The handeling is great if not true to a sports car handeling. Looks are its forte, smooth and unique. I would buy again if I had the choice.

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  Having fun with the RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Oregonbeav - February 8 - 2:00 am

  I love driving this car. It handles great and fits me like a glove. I highly recommend this 4-door coupe.

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  Zoom_Zoom_Zoom! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By HeatherStevens - February 4 - 11:56 am

  I just got this car a month or two ago, I love everything about it but the gas. The gas is just horrible. I feel like everyday I am putting gas in it. I love how it drives, its real comfortable, everything is in reach. This is my first car and I dont think I would ever trade it in. (Well only if they would get better MPG.)

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  AWSOME - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By BUSH - January 28 - 10:00 am

  I JUST GOT MY RX-8 ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO. I JUST LOVE IT. THE GAS MILAGE SUCKS BUT WHY BUT A 30,000.00 CAR AND THEN WORRY ABOUT GAS MILAGE? THE ATTENTION THAT YOU WILL RECIEVE IS SO FUNNY, PEOPLE THINK YOU ARE DRIVEING SOMETHING FROM THE NEXT WORLD. GOT TO HAVE MY ZOOM-ZOOM MBUSH