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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  Know What Youre Getting - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By gingersrus - December 31 - 2:00 am

  One test drive and I was sold and have never regretted buying it.... BUT Mazda is not clearly notifying new buyers about potential problems from flooding/fouling plugs when shutting down cold. This is a real problem if you valet park where they have to move your car, or if you forget and back the car out of the garage without letting it fully warm up. NEW ROTARY BUYERS BEWARE Make sure you ask the salesman about this.

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  Another love-hate relationship - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Liz - December 21 - 9:30 pm

  While I love the look and feel of my car I have had many difficulties with it. Mazda acknowledges the engine problems that the 2004/2005 RX 8s have and thus have extended the drive train warranty. However, my car has been in the shop more times that I can count. The check engine light is constantly on, even after my engine was replaced! Started with the typical stalling you see in these cars, and went downhill from there. Most recently my oil cooler line completely rusted out, which the mechanic states he has seen in multiple RX 8s. Its a fun car, but as the dealership has told me AFTER pushing me to purchase the car...it should be used as a sports car, not your every day car.

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  A Great Sports Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By railrdric - December 21 - 10:00 am

  This car rocks folks. Fantastic handling with a 50-50 weight distribution. The automatic is fun to drive and seems to have better take off torque than the 6 spend standard. Have driven both and found that the power was about the same even though the 6 speed is rated at 237 horses versus 197 for the automatic. The horsepower to weight ratio is well balanced to give you a true zoom-zoom.

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  I love this car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By AL - December 15 - 8:06 pm

  This car is exceptionally engineered, from the engine, to the handling performance, all all the way down to the little japanese gadget goodies you find after you drive it off the lot. I have all sport packages including GT, and when I get a new air filter and high flow intake filter case, I should get the gas mileage I need to make this a bit more economical. Without shifting past the engine cutoff (AT at 7500), 1st gear hits about 60mph, 2nd hits 88mph, and 3rd is around 108mp. Not bad for an AT.

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  Review of 6MT Mazda RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By ccasmoe20 - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Cars like it, NONE. This car is a dream for the price. Rotary Engine is great and silky smooth. Bose audio system is great. Interior and exterior are gorgeous! Handles like no other. When ever I drive it feels like the car and I are united as 1. Huge 9,000 RPM Redline!

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  A $30,000 Porsche - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By TrueFan - December 13 - 1:56 pm

  Fantastic car. The people who say that the ergonomics are iffy, dont know what the word ergonomics means. Best controls Ive ever had on any car Ive ever driven.

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  Lovin the ride - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By Manatnac - December 11 - 2:23 am

  This is my third rotary and it is great. I have had no problems, its fun to drive and has all the passing power I need. Corners so well, shifts easily, smooth power, and is so beautiful to look at. The sound system is good too. Not a window blowing sound but certainly adequate for the small interior. Many do add woofers and amps but that is a personal choice. The fit and finish of body parts is tight, the brakes are strong, and the styling is unique. I am a satisfied customer.

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  2004 RX-8 - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By RXG8r - December 3 - 3:40 am

  The RX-8 is an extremely fun car to drive, with impeccable handling/cornering ability and a 9000 RPM redline. Its not quite as torquey as I would like, but thats not exactly what rotary motors are known for anyway. The only thing that would make this car better would be an additional 80 ft/lb of torque and 30 hp, nothing a turbo cant solve!

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  Most fun I have ever had driving 500 mi. - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By Tryce - November 26 - 8:50 pm

  Been waiting for this car since it came out in 04. Reliability issues always made me stay away and it seems Mazda has fixed most of those, so I decided to take the dive when I found one for a great deal in the color and model I wanted. Black R3. Best car I have ever driven, and I have driven a BMW M3. Dont get me wrong, it is nowhere as fast but the handling is superb. When you are on a curve that is posted for 35 and you are going 70 with no hint of body roll, that is awesome handling. I do not encourage breaking the law, btw. Low end torque bad, but once you get into the high rpm in 3rd gear, it feels like a turbo kicks in. Awesome car, not sure on reliability yet, though.

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  jawbone - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By jawbone - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I love it. I just wish the gas mileage was better.