Mazda RX-8 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.49/5 Average
879 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 621 through 630 of 879.00
  • Phenomenal Handling - Sport Room for 4 - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have a Velocity Red, Auto w/ Sports pkg., own just over 1 week. During this time I have driven over 650 miles. This included a weekend trip to the beach. The ride is fantastic; acceleration good, comfortable and a responsive ride that is phenomenal. Zoom-Zoom! Head turning to say the least. The interior is comfortable and the cockpit seating is a plus. The kids love the car and there is room for all four of us. Storage space is fine for this type of car. Standard front air bags, side curtain air bags, along w/ side air bags for the front seats. ABS braking and with the sport package added stability control w/ traction control. State Farm considers it a 4 door sedan for insurance purpose.

  • Beep at 9k - 2008 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Ive had my 2004 GT MT, putting 18k miles the 1st year, and about 3k a year since. I love it. Its nimble, quick in the power band, very responsive, hugs corners like a bear, shifts like butter, plenty of space for 4 regular size adults. Acceleration from 40 to 140 is quick in the power band and the shifter is faultless. Have not had 1 mechanical failure and I used to drive it hard. Windows down and sunroof up driving provides little wind disruption inside (although also prevents a good breeze in S Florida Temps). The stereo is excellent with good features and good sound production. The weight distribution and tossability of the car excels compared to any other vehicle costing less than 50k.

  • Test drove it...had to buy it!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have had my RX-8 for a couple of months now and I love it. Yeah it is not the fastest car on the block but what the other cars lack this one surely makes up for it. It is a very well rounded car and for the price it beats anything out there. You can spend tens of thousands more but WHY??? For the money it is the best sports car you can buy. When I test drove the car I could not get out of it. Gotta try it!!

  • rx-8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This is by far the most fun to drive car I have ever had the pleasure of piloting!! Rotary is utterly smooth as butter!! Outstanding gearbox. Typical sports car performance(but you can take 2 friends along). Would by 2 if I could afford it:-)

  • Great RX-8! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I wanted an RX-8 since I first saw it at the auto show. I finally got my RX-8 last December. This car is great and soooo much fun to drive. I get about 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. My only big complaint is with the 18" Bridgestone tires. I only have 11K miles on the car, but they are already worn uneven due to how soft they are. It looks like Ill have to replace them soon. Otherwise, the car is excellent and Id highly recommend it to anyone looking to get a little zoom, zoom, zoom!

  • FUN - FUN ZOOM - ZOOM - 2006 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have owned my RX-8 for exactly one month. I know, not enough time to have a unbiased opinion yet...but I will say that this car is the most fun vehicle I have ever driven. The interior is very sharp and all the controls and design are very well put together.

  • Orlando - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Not the best for gas mileage but overall, a well made, good looking, fun- to-drive car.

  • I love this car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Ilove this car. It is a blast to drive and I can take my kids to school in it. It attracts attention everywhere I go. People who are not "into" cars stare at it and ask what it is and Gearheads want to talk about the rotary engine. I was going to buy a 3 series BMW but EVERYONE has one of those. The RX8 is cheaper and a lot more fun. If you want a car that you look forward to driving everyday and dont want to get lost in the parking lot, this is it.

  • onroad gain - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have driven this car over 9000 miles in four months and the experience ahas been very good I would only fault a little tightness on space and fuel consumption other than that is a great car to drive.

  • RX-8, Most fun car for the money - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have been a fan of the old RX-7s since my youth so as soon as the divorce was final; it was time to trade in the Tundra for a loaded RX-8. I have owned many vehicles and this one by far takes the cake. I have never driven a more fun peppy car in all my days. The way it takes corners and accelerates on to the highways is a thing of beauty. The 9000 RPM redline is a dream and going over 80 miles an hour in 3rd is quite a feat.

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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