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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  Second Time Around - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Paul Elliott - May 28 - 10:00 am

  In 1979 at the age of 25, I purchased my first RX7 and had it for 6 year, it was love a first sight. Now at 50 I purchased my second only it is an RX8. I love the style, freestyle doors, quality of build and that one of a kind ROTORY engine. I sometimes fail to turn on the 9 speaker Bose stereo just to hear that silky smooth "wherr" of the engine. I am in love again with the "coolest" sports car on the road.

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  Mid-Life Crisis Car with Kids - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By hornsby6 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Having sold my RX-7 when my first child was born, I have been longing for the day when I could once again be driving a sports car. However, with more children, it was getting delayed, and delayed, and delayed. Now, I got my car, and it has 4 doors and a back seat.

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  zoom zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By tweetienstyle - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I was one of the first people to get a rx8 in yellow..for the longest time I would get people turning heads giving me thumbs up and wanting to race..I love the car..it handles great..looks sharp..it didnt come with a rear spoiler so I had it added, which made the car so much more in looks! The only complaint is the gas milage..its a gas hog..

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  Are X 8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Randy Asbell - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Great car and fun to drive. You will not be disappointed with the performance! A real head turner.

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  Its been worth the wait - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By itsmine - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Performs like a dream and very forgiving. 6 Speed Manual is a blast to drive. Sexy car! Trunk space is adequate and more than expected from a sports car. Back seats, seat people comfortably with full back support. Regardless of having leather or fabric seats, they are comfortable and hug your body. Safety / crash test results are impressive (4 and 5 star).

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  Best handling car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Gentleman Jim - May 28 - 10:00 am

  The RX-8 is a tight, smooth handling car, easy to play with on back country roads, and yet, fun to drive in the city, and to be seen in. The unique styling turns heads left and right. I have found it to be a road hugging sports car, and the automatic/manual transmission makes it versatile for any type of driving.

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  Zoom Zoom Zoom!!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By SLYeates - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is awesome riding vehicle. Extrememly smooth on the interstate. Beautiful body design.

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  my review - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By bondman20 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive, fun to own. What a gas!!!

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  Best car Ive ever owned or driven. - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By driverlife - May 19 - 3:37 am

  Very much improved over older RX-8s I have never owned a car that is this much fun to drive. The cars turn in ability and grip is extreme. Sometimes its hard to live with because the suspension is so stiff. But its been my daily driver and weekend warrior for more than 3 years now. I always get looks in this car. The interior is really upscale with piano black center pieces. and aluminum inserts. Its much faster than the other cars Ive owned: 98 Oldsmobile Aurora V8, 03 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V. I also currently own a 2006 civic si that is also sporty and more forgiving on the back. Its not as fast as the RX-8 and no where near the RX-8 in handling prowess.

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  Not made for long distance driving. - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Ty - May 18 - 1:43 am

  It is a nice looking car. Not as comfortable as I would like but hey, its a sport car not a family sedan. The bucket seats are not comfortable for long distance trips. Its kind of slow off the line but once it hits about 3500 rpm, this thing can go. Like many other people, I would like a bit more torque in this puppy. It is nice on the freeway, only if youre not living in LA. I am just wondering what is the top speed on an automatic? If you are looking for a fun car to drive and want to be different then everyone else, this may be the car for you.