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 771 through 780 of 879.00
  • The RX8 experience. - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Mazda has done an excellent job as it relates to design an performance. Not withstanding the fact that the RX8 is a "head turner" it is also a charm to operate. The interior is well thought out with a great design. The RX8 is everything and more, a great driving experience!!!

  • GRX8T car - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    Best handling car Ive ever driven. Gets lost of looks on the road. Very comfortable to drive for a sports car.

  • R3 is Brilliant! - 2011 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    If you are a true enthusiast, the RX-8 R3 is for you; I drove the usual suspects- 370Z, G37s, 335i, all are great cars However, the way this car comes together, the hand-in-glove feel you get, the intoxicating sound, and the perfect steering and shifter, and firm yet comfortable suspension tuning make this car truly special. You have to know how to drive to let this cars brilliance shine through- there is nothing like it. Drove it through the Tail of the Dragon (US 129) and the car is made for it; StIs couldnt keep up, it is sheer brilliance when driven hard.

  • Great Car - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This car is so much fun to drive. We did a test drive 6 months before we bought and fell in love with the car. It handles like a dream and is too fast for local streets. The car takes every corner with no problems and puts you back in the seat with each gear. I love it. Gas mileage is what is expected from a sports car. Did I tell you it goes really really fast. WOW!

  • Fun RX-8 with room for my little girl - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I love this car. I wanted a fun car that loves to drive as much as I do and I found it! I have one daughter who has plenty of room in the back with her own storage. She is thrilled about that. It handles beautifully especially once it kicks in. It was a little hard to get used to the feel of the rotary engine. it felt different to me. I love the small rear doors, which lends to easy access without the confines of a four door sedan. The only thing I would change in the center console which extends form the front all the way to the back, making exiting form the back difficult if not impossible if you open the opposite door. Overall- a definite 9.9! :)

  • RX-8 a new breed of greatness - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I have been a sports car lover for some time.I looked at purchasing a 350z, but after I put both these cars to the test the RX-8 blew it out of the water.This car handles like a dream and after 4000 RPMs on the Tachometer feels like you are in a dream as well. The low end torque is nothing to brag about, but you are only in these low RPMs for a very short time. Anything above 4,000 rpms you are flying. There is nothing on the road that I cant compete with (or at least I feel like that) All in all this is a great sports car, that has been doubled as usefull. That in its own right cant be beaten.

  • Run Far Far Away... - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I bought my 2004 Mazda RX8 in 2004 - brand new with 4 miles on it. I treated this car like royalty: and it didnt matter. Engine was replaced at 20k for warranty - THEN the engine failed again just 2k outside of warranty - I paid $7,000 for repairs; The spark plugs cost $100 a piece, Tires are $200. MUST have premium gas (At premium prices) and MPG is horrible. $5 in gas wont get you out of your neighborhood. Now -2012 - I finally got rid of it. PROBLEMS from day one til the last day. Car shuts off at red lights, when its too cold, and when its too hot. MUST warm-up engine for 15 min. before driving anywhere - I can go on for days but my space here is limited. DO NOT BUY a 2004 Mazda RX8

  • The only sports car you need - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This is the only sports car you need,Your kids will be popular at school just because of how cool this car is. the interior design is awsome. it has so much room for a sports car. It has more room then a altima or maxima in the back. the whole car is balanced so theres no way it can flip over.It has a great engine and great wheels, you feel like your in a rocket when you just hit 50. wow. The doors are the most coolest thing on this car. it looks so cool. scince they have these doors its so easy to get into and out of the car.

  • The only sports car you need - 2004 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    This is the only sports car you need,Your kids will be popular at school just because of how cool this car is. the interior design is awsome. it has so much room for a sports car. It has more room then a altima or maxima in the back. the whole car is balanced so theres no way it can flip over.It has a great engine and great wheels, you feel like your in a rocket when you just hit 50. wow. The doors are the most coolest thing on this car. it looks so cool. scince they have these doors its so easy to get into and out of the car.

  • Fun to drive - 2005 Mazda RX-8
    By -

    I absolutely love my RX-8. It is so fun to drive and get those RPMs up. Gas mileage isnt great and it is horrible in the snow, but it is worth it.

Mazda RX-8 Reviews By Year:
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