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 of Both Worlds - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By phillyflyer - December 3 - 10:00 am

  So, how do you guarantee a smile from two adults and a 4-year old on a daily basis? Well a simple high-spirited ride in the 8 will do the trick. For those of us that miss our FDs and are sick and tired of the generic "family offerings" in the high 20s-low 30s price range. This car will do the trick. Safe, comfortable, stylish, and FUN. Now, Im not saying to turn the DSC/TCS off with the kids in the car or take it out to your local AutoX event with the family buckeled in, but everyday driving has certainly become a treat again. mundane tasks such as grocery runs now become the property of the 8, much to the joy of my 4 year old.

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  30K on my RX-8 & Counting - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By LongDistance8 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I put on 2,500 miles/mo. commuting. It loves the higway. Everything is so well balanced; engine, trans, handling, ride. I especially appreciate the quality. I have not had one single problem with the car. The dealer, Munday Mazda, has been outstanding caring for my routine service. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for someone looking for something special and a bit unique.

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  the bomb - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By jtalldat200 - November 19 - 10:00 am

  everything about this car is awsome, expecially the free style doors on the car. there is a lot of room in the car, it has more room then some sedans. buy this car.

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  Driving in 7th Heaven - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Paul in DC - November 6 - 2:46 pm

  Just picked up my RX-8 this week; 6 speed, GT pkg, Nav system. The funnest car I ever owned was a Triumph Spitfire - until now! The RX-8 drives like a dream - all the power I need. Well behaved in stop & go rush hour traffic, and moves like a bat outa hell on the open road. It has so many features it borders on decadent. It takes a while just to learn how to use all this stuff. The stares it gets are satisfying too. Like any car, the shifter takes some time to adjust to, as does the auto-dimming rear view mirror. I think the Nav system will become on of those things thats so useful Ill wonder how I ever lived without it. Its a great sports car with power and style.

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  da kid - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By nick gusman - November 3 - 9:43 am

  i love the speed of this vehicle as i cruise the parkaway i hit about 80 in the 5th gear

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  Great car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By kellybrf - November 1 - 2:00 am

  I been brougut up around the finest of cars, but even among those the RX-8 stands out. The unique design is the first thing that jumps out at you, but what really matters is the quality of the drive, and the RX-8 does not disappoint. This replaced my WRX and 83 Supra- both phenomenal everyday cars- and I have not been disappointed. Obviously the handling is not as sure as the WRX in adverse conditions (actually, the Supra was better in the snow,) but on dry pavement the RX-8 corners just as well as my dads M3. The only real drawback is the mileage. Its listed at 17/24, but Ive gotten as little as 14 highway, with the average around 15.5.

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  Great Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By pitcrew55 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful quality and very practical....

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  Titanium Gray w red & black leather int - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Zokkhon - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Amazing car to drive hard. Very smooth, makes you look like you are a better driver than you are. Expect attention from strangers regularly. Mine has all the options available from the option brosure. Fender strakes, deflector, appearence pkg, rotory accents, extra interior lighting, wing, ect. Had it for almost a year (the board will not let you put 2003) and people still compliment me on it all the time. Gas milage is not good and it only drinks premium. About the same mpg as my friends G35, but much better gas milage than SVT Mustangs or GTOs If you just want to go fast in a strait line buy one of those, but if you want a real drivers car with a unique flair look no further.

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  owner on rx8 since 2003 - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By tom frazzetto - October 16 - 10:00 am

  vehicle is great but don,t try to go out in the snow. need a winter car

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  2nd Time Around - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By RX3 / RX8 - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This is my second vehicle w/a rotary engine. The first was a RX3 that made me a believer. The handling is incredible and more impressive is how smooth and quiet this practical sports car is. A recent auto magazine called the RX8 a sports car you could talk your spouse, in this case my wife into buying.