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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  Poor persons exotic - 2011 Mazda RX-8
  By DLu - April 12 - 9:40 am

  If you want a car that has universally been loved for its handling prowess, especially for cars under $100k, and you want a unique vehicle (the only rotary engine available in a modern car, "freestyle" doors that offer easier rear stea access while avoiding ridiculously long coupe doors, 9000 rpm redline, non-vanilla looks, etc), then the RX-8 (now only available as used) is an excellent option. I got my R3 new for less than what Insideline paid for their FR-S, so the value factor is excellent too. I drive the R3 on a daily basis, except when there is salt/snow on the road. I swapped out the OEM summer tires, and the handling is still great. Mileage is not a problem for my 22-mi round trip.

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  Rotary Rocket Returns - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By TRRR - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Comfortable in the city and a blast on the country roads...and so forgiving at the racetrack. Keep the RPMs above 4000 and there is no other car in her class that can touch the overall value/capabilities of this car...and if you want, 4 adults can enjoy the night out on the town just fine. While I hate to start sharing the road with other RX-8s, more & more are popping up all over.

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  Rx-8, Automatic - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Crissy - March 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had my RX-8 for four months but I love it. I researched a lot of cars before I bought it and was interested in a few. I ultimately decided that the RX-8 had the best body design and I couldnt be happier with my choice.

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  No resale value - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By bobsbob - March 21 - 10:00 am

  The value of this car has dropped like a rock. Not just the normal depreciation of a new car. Dont buy if you ever think you might have to sell...

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  cool - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By daveyd26 - March 12 - 10:00 am

  phat that is what i think of this cool car and that is all that i can think of right now.

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  My RX-8 rocks - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By tjrx8 - March 7 - 10:00 am

  The title says it all. I only wish the fuel economy was a little better. I love this car and it was worth the 5-6 month wait.

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  Great car, bad build quality. - 2009 Mazda RX-8
  By Sad - February 27 - 10:00 am

  I bought a brand new JDM import. The steering rack rattles incessantly. This has just 10,000 km on it. Sorry Mazda but this is just garbage to put it mildly. I am currently negotiating with the reluctant dealer to have the steering rack switched. Other than that the car is great. Great engine, great handling, great cabin, great looks. Comfortable too!

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  Fun at a price (gas hungry) - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By MedicineMan - February 24 - 4:53 am

  This car is powered by the RENESIS rotary engine. Rotary engines by design use oil, which is not a problem if you dont mind checking the oil every 2-3 gas fill ups. I get 15-17 mpg in town with a smile on my face every time. This is a unique car with unique needs but well worth every quart of oil or minutes warming up the engine to prevent flooding. I have never had a problem with my car and I am at 12,000 miles.

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  350z vs. RX8...RX8 hands down!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By seventhree - February 23 - 2:00 am

  Between the two cars I took into consideration for my next toy, the RX8 was the favorite. The design and performance does not compare to that of the 350z. Despite the 8s lack of hp, the handling is unbelievable. Im a daily commuter and every morning I sit in the drivers seat, and I feel like a winner. If you have to make the choice between a sports car from the $25k-$35k range, get the 8!!!

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  Looks like it is going 100mph at a stop - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By Rex8it - February 22 - 8:30 am

  This is a great car! The power of this car is amazing when the revs are high. Over all i havnt had it into service at all. I change the oil myself and have run octane boost through it once to clean it out and it has been nothing but reliable. The paint does seem to chip easy though which stinks since the look is my favorite part of the car. The gas mileage could be better.