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:
Showing 411 through 420 of 879.00-
DO NOT BUY REPLACED 2 ENGINES - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Jessie - September 24 - 7:30 pmThis is th absolute worst car I think of all time. I bought this car brand new in 04 and it has been nothing but problems. I have replaced 2 engines and that is just the beginning, everytime I turn around something is wrong with it and it cost a pretty penny to fix everything. This car makes awful rattleing noises, it breaks down on me while driving on the road about once a week, whick is very dangerous in traffic. The dealership has been absolutely no help and often have to argue with them. The problems are never ending! It pretty to the eye and thats bout as far as it goes.
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A blast to drive and looks good - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By JZ - September 24 - 12:03 amOverall the car is a great experience. I replaced the expensive run flat tires when I took a nail in the sidewall and bought a spare on eBay. Driving it to work can be frustrating because you have to hold it back in heavy traffic. Its fabulous to drive on trips. My first rotary. I like the sounds but miss the rumble of a big V-8. My mileage started out low but has improved to a steady 20 mpg. If you drive slow on the freeway, you might get 22 (downhill).
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Excited !!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By rf1311 - September 20 - 2:00 amAfter several months of research, I finally purchased my RX-8. I love the automatic because of the "manual" option. I think it is so cool to be able to change gears on the steering wheel. Its like a video game. I have one baby and the car seat fits perfectly in the backseat. If you are thinking about it, just go buy it. You wont regret it.
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Mazda RX 8 - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By a.stein - September 17 - 6:36 pmA fun car to drive, gets looks everywhere you go. Great handling, responsive and quick, but not for the snow.
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Love It! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Don D - September 16 - 7:03 pmI am 58 and always wanted a sports car. Before buying I looked at the 350Z, Mini-Cooper, Z-3, and S2000. Had decided to buy the 350Z when I saw the RX-8 on the road. I decided to check it out and quickly decided it was my car. I am really enjoying it and am constantly answering the question; what kind of car is that? Happy with my decision and enjoying my first sports car very much.
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Turn Your Back On the Bad Old Days - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By sportsman - September 15 - 10:00 amIve owned Japanese, British, American, and Italian sports cars. This one has it all. Innovation...performance... styling...and gas mileage that, though not fantastic, doesnt consume gas like an SUV either. Yep, you can steer with the throttle! Yep, you can get rubber in at least 4 gears!!! All this performance and you still get cuddled with those great seats. I MUST be living right!
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Very Pleased - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By ditto13041 - September 13 - 3:30 amJust bought used 2005 with 26K miles. Had to immediately replace tires with snow tires (no problem ....am driving it in winter in midwest...$1000 for tires but should last 4-6 winter seaons). Alternator went out but warranty still good! (0 cost to me). Fuel economy is about 19 MPH combined Hwy, City. Rear quater view is restricted but acceptable. This car rocks! Fun to drive...you have the option of automatic, or you can still manually shift it (no clutch!) which I like to do about half the time. Roomy and comfortable interior (Im 62" and still plenty of room). Mirror has garage door opener built in. Overall I really like this car...sports car with a backseat!
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Cant Fault My RX-8 - 2009 Mazda RX-8
By ash8 - September 10 - 10:43 pmSo far no problems at all, I really can not fault my Superb Mazda RX-8. Fuel economy rate for performance is very acceptable, what do people expect, it is not a Civic, it is a Sports Car. Handling is Superb, #3 in America. Braking is Excellent # 10 rated against all Exotics. Performance is Fantastic for a 1.3 Litre Rotary, 0-60 in under 6.8 Sec is fast for ANY car. Great Value, nothing comes close. This car is Unique. Not a day goes by without a look or comment....is that the new Porsche..one guy asked. Would I recommend this car...Hell Yes..
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Nice car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By fredo - September 8 - 8:46 pmMore than adequate acceleration with great handling characteristics. Like the style and design in silver -- looks like the sports machine it is. Have had no mechanical problems to date although just got a recall notice about possible engine cooling problem. Did run the car hard during our peak hot week -- temps mid-90s for 600 miles with little stopping along the way and everything worked fine; comfortable ride with no excessive heating indications. Lots of inquiries about "whats that?" with lots of positive comments about the cars design. Gasoline consumption depends on how you drive it. Did check on one throughway trip at average speed of 70 and got almost 24mpg. Less when playing in city.
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one fantastic sports car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By williama - September 8 - 10:00 amwhat can i say - awesome! lots of power, fantastic handling and looks great both inside and out. Sun roof is good, although not as large as the one on my old 82 RX7. Got the spoiler on the car and think it adds to the looks - doubt the performance is much affected but I think its a positive. Negatives - the gas mileage is not great but so what. This is a sports car not an econo box - remember you still are not using as much gas as an oversized SUV. If you decide to get one youll not regret it - see you on the road and I will if you are driving this car!
