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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  BoomBoom not ZoomZoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Shabam - July 16 - 1:13 am

  I loved my RX8 when I bought it. 2 weeks after purchase I had to replace the purge valve. 1 month later replaced the ignition coils and wires. 1 week later check engine light came on. Had to replace the engine. Recall for oil dipstick allowing water in oil. Guess what, Ive got water and metal shavings in my oil. I see engine #2 coming up. All this in only 6 months! Extended warranty highly recommended for this vehicle. Love driving it when it runs! This is not the Mazda for me.

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  Kick in the Pants - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Blackhawkbill007 - July 11 - 11:20 pm

  I have this car for a couple of weeks and this car is awesome. I was looking for something that was sporty and fun, and I found it with the RX-8. I was a little shocked about the actual MPG (so far 16 MPG after two fuelings) but the handling is incredible. I have got it up to 123 mph so far and it handled like an Indy car. If somebody is looking for a sports car that is not the dime a dozen then this is it. Everybody that has seen it has been impressed and the back seats believe it or not are roomy. So if you are 30 something not ready to commit to a family car then this is perfect. You can fit the car seat when needed and take it out and have fun whenever you want.

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  Most fun to drive! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Oneputt - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This is the most fun car to drive that I have owned. Love to hear the rotary engine...great to the ear...makes you want to drive everywhere and never get out. Super handling and very comfortable. Overall, no car can touch it. 350z is a rough ride and has tire problems, boxster too expensive, s2000 comes close but noisier and no back seat.

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  bad to the bone - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By modoom - July 11 - 2:00 am

  from start to finsh no one can tuoch it. makes me feel like Im on top of the wrold

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  Not the fastest, but the best! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By mjsievert - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Smoothest engine Ive every driven. Very fun to drive. Excellent value for your money.

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  ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By rochelleROCHELLE - July 6 - 10:00 am

  GAS ECONOMY SUCKS....NOT TOOO KEEN ON HAVING TO CHECK & REFILL THE OIL SO OFTEN...BUT IT COMES WITH THE CAR!

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  Clutch problems - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Larchwood - June 30 - 10:00 am

  I have enjoyed driving the Rx8. My only problem is that the clutch has burned out twice in less than 7,000 miles. My son a teenager drives it mostly. I am trying to decide is the problem the driver or the clutch

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  Lot of engine for a little car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By victor - June 27 - 1:33 pm

  Ive had my RX8 for three years, and I still get comments about it every now and then. Its a unique car, considering the rotary engine. Let me start there: The rotary has a great range, getting up to 8,000 rpm. It really starts to sing once you get above 4k. You can tell Mazdas engineers spent most of their time and money on the engine. Inside, you get most of the typical features for this kind of car. The gauges look really cool, but thats really the only thing inside that was engineered. The backseat is comfortable enough, and surprisingly roomy with the four doors. This car is a blast to drive, but it can be a rough ride, especially with the Bridgestone OEM tires. Somewhat rattly.

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  Tires - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Joyce - June 23 - 8:23 pm

  I really love this car. It is so fun to drive and really turns heads, but I cant keep tires on it. Bought in July 06 I now have 13K on it & on 3rd set of tires. Dealer cant help me, Mazda cant help me. I cant afford to put tires on this car every 4 to 7K miles.I do not spin them or drive recklessly. I am going to have to sell it. I am just sick over it, I love everything about the car, but at $500/2 tires I dont know what else to do. The dealership doesnt know if this is the expected life for tires on this car or not?? I bought this car for my 40th B.d. Im really going to miss it. If this problem is just with my car I wish theyd fix it for me!

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  One Of The Best Cars Around - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Robert Stephens - June 16 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the greatest cars I have ever seen. If I were any of you, I would go out tomorrow and buy this brand new Mazda RX-8. It runs like dream.