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 721 through 730 of 879.00
  • Not an RX7, probably a good thing! - 2006 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I was feeling sentimental for my twin turbo RX7 when I bought this. There is a familiarity to it, but quite clearly not the same car. Like me I think its a bit better behaved and more pleasant to live with day in and out now. I have had no mechanical complaints. Fuel economy and oil consumption are part of the "experience" of the rotary, but would have liked a larger fuel tank to compensate. Ive also owned a TT and while the RX is not up to that in terms of fit finish and style, its more fun to drive, has room for my kids and is a lot less money!

  • "Fine French Fencing Foil" - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    it is the best car i have ever driven. it respond to the road with such accuracy and precision, "like a fine french fencing foil."

  • BEWARE OF THE GAS PUMP!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The car looks awesome, as we all know!! The car handles great and is very comfortable on a daily commute. This car does NOT get even close to the mpg rating on the sticker, which is 18/25 on the automatic. I have been getting 14 mpg highway with my foot out of it!! They lied about the HP and now this!! My advice by the Nissan Z car and deal with NO rear seat!!

  • Love the car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This is an outstanding sports car. If you know how to handle a rotary engine, it should last you a life time. Read the owners manual carefully and follow its instructions on warm-up and down. It doesnt take that much time for either. My wife and I have taken it on a few road trips and were pleased with the overall comfort. It has an incredible stereo system. The shifting (manual) is very smooth. The seat heaters can burn your fanny off if you are not careful!

  • ultimate sports car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    i love the car. it very fun to drive. the fuel efficiency is bad for a 1.3 but it is a sports car and the horses and being able to turn 9 grand make up for it.constantly checking the oil gets kind of annoying after a while

  • Sexy Black Beauty - 2007 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The car is incredible. Its incredibly smooth, incredibly fast and unbelievably comfortable for a sports coupe. I find reasons to get in the car because I love driving it so much. Though, I do have 07 Mercedes C230 Sports with AMG package as the other car, which is an excellent car in its own right, I love the feeling of driving the RX-8. MB provides luxurious sporty feel, where the RX-8 makes me want to tear up the road. It really is so much fun to drive that I have to contain myself from driving like a teenager, and its really hard. Try the car out. You will want to trade in your car right away!

  • Flashy Fun - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The RX8 is an awesome looking, head turning sports car. It is extremly fun to drive and handles great. The four doors, back seat, and roomy trunk also make it very convenient to take along an extra passenger or two! The manual transmission is a definite must. It shifts very easily and is actually a very quiet ride inside. The exterior styling and Royal Blue paint finish is very eye-catching. The ability to change the dash lights from white to Red is also a plus. Great car!

  • Incredibly fun to drive - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I bought this car used after the lease on my Hyundai Tiburon ran out. I can say with confidence (even though I love Hyundai), this vehicle is a huge step up. A true performance sports car with luxuries to satisfy any driver (Grand Touring Edition at least). DSC gives you confidence to run it hard on turns, and nothing beats the jet like roar of the rotary passing 8000 rpms. Shifts are smooth and accurate and the car is comfortable for any trip. Gas mileage is on par for cars of this class (350z and Mustang GT), so I dont mind that.

  • Excellent Vehicle - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    The Mazda Rx8 is a deceivingly large car. This really is a no compromise sports car. The car is just as tall, long and wide as most other sedans on the road but that doesnt take away from its sportiness. The car is quick, handles well, and actually has a decent ride.

  • WOW - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This thing is amazing. The funnest car Ive ever driven. I love driving anywhere and would take the long route just to drive it a while longer. Only bad thing is gas. Its supposed to be 18MPG, but Ive gaged mine somewhere approximately 12MPG ... crazy, but its worth the ride. Not to mention the attention.

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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