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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  best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By old guy - July 29 - 10:06 pm

  I knew this was a sports car when I bought it and was willing to put up with a few rough edges. About the only concern Ive had is the high performance SUMMER tires it comes with - they are totally worthless in the winter! Mileage is a bit lower than we get with our Mazda 3 but performance is awesome. No quality or engine problems and the dealer has even been a pleasant surprise.

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  Great Sports car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By newRX-8 - July 16 - 10:00 am

  The car is a delight to drive. The steering feel is very good. The brakes allow you to break late in a corner. I find the seats supportive and comfortable. The six speed manual is easy to shift.

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  I love this car - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Opus37 - July 14 - 9:56 pm

  I purchased an RX8 after driving a lot of similar sports cars. This one just feels right. The rotory engine sounds wonderful and has plenty of power. This handles like a dream even at over 150 mph. (it goes faster than that). I smile every time Im driving it. I can get up to 25 mpg on the road or down to 16 mpg if I drive agressively. The ride is a little softer than other sports cars but that does not affect handling. It improves the ride.

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  RX 8 Lover - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By ZoomZoom210 - July 13 - 8:06 am

  I bought my RX 8 to replace my Mazda6 that was totaled in an accident. I am a car enthusiast that was looking for something sporty and fun to drive. Well, I got both in this car. I bought the 6 speed to add to the enjoyment of driving a sports car. I also picked the Crystal White Pearl which I absolutely adore. I find this car fun and sporty! Just know that you are getting basically a two seater with suicide doors. Dont expect to haul the family around for the back seat has very limited leg room. I am averaging about 16 mpg in the city so if you cant afford Premium fuel, this car is not for you. Overall I am thrilled with my RX 8 and am a true RX 8 Lover...

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  RX-8 with Automatic - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Darryl - July 12 - 2:13 am

  Unique car with polarizing styling. Either you love it or you dont. Gets lots of positive comments, especially on the suicide doors. Good interior quality. Rear seats OK for kids or adults for short rides. Front seats small for large people -- can become uncomfortable on long trips. Trunk is small, but holds more than expected. Engine is smooth as an electric motor, no vibrations. Gas mileage good at 16-18 in town and 22-24 on highway. Automatic transmission really saps power. Super handling. Problems with A/C; after many complaints it was completely replaced, now works just OK. Several recalls. In cold weather must warm engine before turning off or it will flood. Poor in snow.

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  Nice car, terrible dealers and service - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By denverrx8 - July 11 - 8:03 pm

  Ive owned my RX-8 for just over a year. I love almost everything about the car, except for the fact that its a Mazda. The car has spend over a month in the shop, mainly due to dealers that dont know anything about the car. The car now has a power problem where it loses power after driving, and 2 different dealers have failed at repairing it, and now theyre charging me for diagnosis and rentals, even though theyve duplicated the problem. Mazda is no help, the car is a lemon, and they wont stand behind it. Ive even filmed the problem for them, and they still say it doesnt happen! Bottom line. Great car, terrible car company, this will absolutely be my last Mazda. Dont buy Mazda!

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  excellent!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By asn - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This car is so great. I love the looks and the feel of such power each time I drive this car. Fun does not explain what this car brings to each driver as they experience the drivability of this vehicle. I am more than pleased with my purchase, and Im sure that I will remain so as long as I have the RX8.

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  Sports Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Jacque Lantrip - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Lots of fun and you get all kinds of looks.

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  Fun to Drive - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By flyer574 - July 10 - 10:00 am

  As a senior citizen, I always promised myself a little red sports car. This was it. I researched the RX8 online and drove one. Performance is excellent, easy to drive, nice ride considering its a sports car. Good power and the rotary engine is historically super-reliable. Design is more Italian than Japanese and I like that. Looks like its moving fast when sitting still, and doesnt have that roller skate look of the 350Z. We also have a Mazda MPV which has been excellent.

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  Zazoom! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Sevenkevin - July 4 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful design, sleek, agile, with just the right blend of top ten performance and top five comfort and drivability! At under $26k for the base model it is an unparalleled value. Oh yeah you can get a OEM modified turbo Subaru WRX, or a turbo Mustang that will slightly outperform the RX8 0-60, but they are just souped-up sedans that do not inspire the thoroughbred sports car vision like the Mazda RX8, Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4... There is no comparison as far as class and value when it comes to my RX8!!!