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:
Showing 731 through 740 of 879.00-
A real sportscar with practicality - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Jimk - October 21 - 9:33 pmI love this car. It does everything its supposed to perfectly. A solid reliable sportscar you can race at the track or take for 2 week road trip. It has a nice ride and superior handling. It can straighten out any curve fast. It makes me feel like a better driver than I am. It revs like a sportbike and is as much fun to drive. I highly recommend it.
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Love This Car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By pkw - October 12 - 2:00 amLove this car. Had the RX-7 growing up. Now into the new generation. This car was designed for me. Can afford a third car, wanted a sports car, but have a family. I would never get to use a two seater. The suicide rear doors make this a dream come true. My kidds love ridding to school in this and showing off too their friends. I would recomend it highlly. Few minor details that Iwould change...a bit cheese inside glove boxes (plasticy)
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Outstanding Car! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By jerryf - October 12 - 2:00 amI bought the automatic model somewhat reluctantly, but the car will see a lot of in-town traffic. I am not at all disappointed! The car is a blast to drive, and pulls smoothly to the 7500 rpm redline. Handling is awe inspiring, and grip is tenacious. Im 62", and am very comfortable in the car. The back seat isnt imaginary either, humans can actually use it. Styling is head-turning, Ive never gotten more looks. All in all a great car, with only one downside- MILEAGE! If you were unfamiliar, youd swear there was a hole in the gas tank. Its OK in the end though, because youre sure to get a compliment every time you visit the pump.
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No regrets - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By mikgal0 - September 18 - 5:00 amIm always a little wary of buying the first model year of car but Im over 11,000 miles with not the first problem. Excellent handling and ride with good acceleration thta could use a little more torque in the lower RPMs of first gear. A little thirsty for gas especially if driven fast. I tend to average about 19 MPG. I love the short throw gearbox and tight steering. A really fun car to drive.
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RX7 to a RX8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Cbrit - September 5 - 2:00 amI have a 1988 RX7 SE. It has 175,000 miles and still runs good. I purchased a RX8 11/1/03, have 1000 miles on it, very satisfied! Gas milage is 19 avg. Six speed shifts very good. Bose stereo is good. Seats are very comfortable. Lot of fun to drive.
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Awesome - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By mkeebler - September 5 - 2:00 amJust purchased my new RX-8 6 speed. What an awesome car! Ive owned 3 Miatas in the past 10 years, and this car is like the big brother (sturdy, fast, cool...). With 2 kids and a wife, this thing is even practical! The rotary engine is king! Sounds like a jet engine!
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great car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By rx8lover - August 30 - 2:00 ami think this is a great car but it needs just a little bit more jump in the lower rpm ranges
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rx8 - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By sombra - August 30 - 2:00 amThis is a nice looking sports car that is fun to drive and is very comfortable if you have like two kids seated in the back.
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The Best - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Yolo7878 - August 30 - 2:00 amGot the Mazda RX8 as a surprise Xmas present, and when I first saw it I really wasnt sure as I wanted a luxury car with a sport handling. All I can say is that I love this car, in fact I have the car a little less then 2 months and I have put 2500 miles on it
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Zoom Zoom - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By Brad - August 29 - 3:10 amGreat for daily driver or long distance trips. Excellent seats, plenty of storage space, even the trunk has more room than you think. Went on a week long vacation and had plenty of room for luggage and items purchased using the trunk and rear seats. Looked at the 350Z but found that you get a lot more options with the RX8 for the money. Loaded with safety equipment and drives like a go cart. Not the fastest or most powerful car out there but can you really use all that power and speed in the real world and still obey the laws? This car is not for everyone. Rotary engine takes a little more attention than a piston engine. Heard all of the downsides of the rotary but have not had any problems.
