2004 Mazda RX-8 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.55/5 Average
583 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The RX-8 is an all-new car for 2004. Its arrival marks the return of Mazda's rotary engine to the U.S. market. Priced less than Nissan's 350Z, the RX-8 also offers four doors and a usable backseat.

Pros:
  • Low base price, agile handling yet still comfortable enough for daily use, room for four in a pinch.
Cons:
  • Option packages can get expensive, iffy interior ergonomics.

User Reviews:

Showing 561 through 570 of 583.00
  • Head turner - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Luvin it! Real Head turner. I bought the Blk on Blk. So cool,the Humm it makes on the take off is fun. Smoothest clutch I have driven. Worth the $. Japanese Racing is great! The RX8 is tight. RX8 is hot. Cant open it up yet as I have just put the first 100 mi showing it off. My last car was totalled on the freeway. I feel safe in this one. Highly recommend this car. Very exotic and intimidating. Great in town and freeway car. Easy to park in the parking garage @ work. Comfort is a 10.

  • not recomended - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Bought the car two years ago, was great the first year, because I was 19 and all the looks it got. Now im 21 and I am getting very tired of it stalling in 80+ degree weather, and taking over a minute to start the car in the cold (under 30 or so degrees). It is a great looking car, but the pros dont outweigh the cons by any means. I have yet to get over 22 mpg (and have only got that once). I average around 18 or 19 mpg. I bought this car because its the only 4 door sports car, but I am very regretful of my decision. It has lost more than half its value in 2 years. I have no control in the winter and dread waking up and seeing it snowing.

  • Mazda-Fun - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have had a great time with owning my RX-8. It is an absolute blast to drive! The only problem I had was when I initially purchased the car, it did not like to be started, moved and then turned off immediately. I have found out that with a plug change to a hotter plug and revving the motor for 7 seconds prior to shutting down the cold motor all problems were eliminated. From this point on, I have been very pleased. My two young boys love the back seats and suicide doors. Ergonomically, the car is very adjustable to fit most anyone. I am 6 tall and weigh 212 lbs. Navigation is excellent and not distracting at night. The Bose stereo system is incredible!

  • Not a 7, but still a 10! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have owned 3 RX-7s (80, 87 and 94) and Im very pleased that Mazda developed the RX-8. Although it lacks the punch and rail-like cornering of the twin turbo, it is much more practical and affordable and gives up nothing in the fun-to-drive category. And the lack of turbocharging should bode well for the longevity of the engine. The car does not have the fit and finish of some of its higher priced brethren, but it doesnt give up much and the performance, features and balance that you get in the RX-8 makes it a value that you simply cannot find elsewhere.

  • This car exceeded all my expectations!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    An awesome car!!!!!!!!! This car is simply not a quantifiable machine on paper. You must see it in person to captures its full beauty.

  • Mini Van...Who Needs One - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Lots of choices out there to haul your family but not many that gives you the fun and accessibility of the RX8. I have tried putting a baby seat in Audi TTs, RSXs, BMW 330 coupes and none seem to work as well and as easy as the RX8. The trunk is a bit small for a stroller but it works. Plus, you can get several golf bags back there. The drive is really comfortable. It takes on bumps really well and can really hug the curves. If you see one used and you are thinking about buying it, check out the MazdaSpeed body kit as a add on. Makes a huge difference in the presence of your car and stands out among other cars. Really sharp. The only thing I would say is get one with low miles.

  • A Blast To Drive! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I fell in love with this car from first site, and finally broke down and purchased a black manual, with grand touring, rotary accents, body appearance, and spoiler. It is so fun to drive, and turns a lot of heads. Comfortable for long drives as well, and really does well on the highway as well as windy mountain roads. Hugs the road like a pancake, and the engine sounds great! Fitting two in the back seat is such a huge plus (although dont make them sit back there for too long).....I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a sporty, fun car to drive that is still practical. GHave fun, and see you on the road!

  • Light and Quick - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    As an Audi owner, I drove the TT Coupe prior to buying my RX-8, and I have to say the RX-8 blows away the TT. Hands down the RX-8 is lighter, more responsive, quicker, and more comfortable. In addition, the back seat is much roomier than the TT Coupe, in fact, adults can actually sit back there comfortably. The rotary engine purrs and demands to be driven between 4-5,000 RPMs. And with a red-line of 9,000, I have yet to use 6th gear. Cruising down the highway at 80 mph is easy on the engine in 5th gear. Since the car was just released, I dont have any maintenance history so I cant speak to that. But for the first 300 miles, this car cooks!

  • Ive never been happier with a purchase - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Great to drive and it gets more looks and compliments than a Porsche. Bad on gas.

  • RX-8 tally - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    It starts red lining at 9000 rpms. Its tourqe isnt as powerful and fast off the line but once it goes into a higher rpm it revs very quickly and possible to keep pace with 250hp. The 2 rotors spinning with no jerking motion gives the car a higher red line, higher rpm and helps the rpms rev faster to feel as a race car. Performace of the car with windy curves and almost pulling a G on the skid pad is great. It has rear wheel drive not good for winter if it snows. The lighter, smaller, and modern technology with the engine gives me faith in Mazda to produce a proficient motor.

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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