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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  RX-8 Rocks - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By BOP - September 11 - 4:06 pm

  The RX-8 is a great car on the curves and is really fun to drive, the main complaint is the amount of torque (too little) and the gas mileage is terrible (I get 16.5 mpg), but besides those 2 issues I wouldnt change it.

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  My fifth RX - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Jim Mortellaro - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Compared with the second generation RX- 7 Turbo, this car is not that far away in performance. I would still prefer the RX-7 turbo, however the overall performance of this latest iteration of the Mazda Rotary is superb.

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  Dont believe stated fuel economy - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Poor MPG king - September 7 - 10:26 pm

  Ive had my 8 since Jan. 04. Just passed 8800 miles. I love everything about this car except one major thing: fuel economy. My last tank was 13 mpg city driving; mainly to and from work. I am VERY disappointed in this number which has been consistent since Ive bought the car. "Lowest True Cost to Own"?! Sorry Edmunds, but the poor fuel mileage should eliminate this car. If I would have known it was THIS bad I would have gotten a different car. Im just tired of filling up every 175 miles or so.

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  Great car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Elara - September 2 - 2:00 am

  The 8 is the most exciting car Ive ever owned. Its plenty fast (0-60 in between 5.9 and 6.2 seconds, depending on who you talk to) and its amazing handling and 9k rev range are just fun. Take a trip down a winding road, and the car sticks like glue. Better yet, you can put four people comfortably in the car. Weve taken several 500+ mile trips with 3 people in the car, and no ones had any complaints. The engine itself is amazingly smooth and quiet. All in all, a great car.

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  Best Thing On Four Wheels Under 50 Grand - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Dan - August 24 - 1:53 am

  The RX8 is absolutely the best handling car under $50 thousand, bar none (yes, including even the Boxster). It is also the most FUN you can have on four wheels. Ive owned my velocity red RX8 for just over a year. Its great FUN on twisty mountain roads, and with its 106" wheelbase, its an exceedingly comfortable GT for long road trips. The styling is unique and very distinctive (but not eccentric). Ive replaced the 18" stock wheels with BBS CH Plasma Finish ones which gives it a very elegant, "I gotta have it" look. It turns a lot of heads. Say what the "professional" reviewers will, Id buy this car again in a flash before considering a Porsche Cayman at twice the price.

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  New RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By liger - August 3 - 10:00 am

  The cockpit is just perfect but the rear seats are not comfortable for adults, but is roomier compared to other coupes.

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  By far the best car ive ever owned - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Alex E - August 3 - 10:00 am

  This car far exceeded my expectations for mazda. It is an extremely fun and inspired car to drive, and gets a lot of attention as well. The best way i can describe the amount of driving pleasure this car sparks, is by referring to the honda s2000. In terms of power delivery, it is very similar to the s2000, in my opinion having better steering feel then the honda, and a much better ride quality, however the shift feel is not quite as good as the honds (but it is still excellent)

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  Better than ever - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By JS - July 28 - 12:23 pm

  Love the acceleration especially on LA freeways, and its roomy enough for four, and can load it up with lots of bags, boxes or groceries with the convenient four doors. Its performance, handling and reliability have been excellent. I havent had to do any maintenance like adding oil or anything else. Its fun and easy to drive.

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  zoom zoom fun - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By eh2003 - July 24 - 4:50 pm

  I really love to drive this car and drive it fast. It will hit turns harder than a sport bike and ask for more. I dont like the gas mileage which is 18mpg if I run the heck out of it and 21 if I dont. This could be the perfect sports car if it had a healthy torque boost on the low end. Other than that it is really a blast to drive.

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  Fast,Fast,Fast...... - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By cybergypsy - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I love this car so much have had the 350Z and other sports cars...but the style is amazing on this car..much nicer then my BMWs. Its fast and sleek....and its a 4 seater...only draw back is gas.... it eats it like a vette..