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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  BO Review - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By BO - January 22 - 2:00 am

  So far I had no problems with the car, it has a great handling and excellent brakes, the fuel comsumption is a bit high.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By agilefalcon - January 21 - 6:13 pm

  First, when you choose this car you should be somebody who is willing to understand the engine and the fact that it is a sports car you are buying. Here is what you need to know: the engine produces a ton of power: power lies between 4,000 and 9,000 RPM; not 1,500 to 4,000 like a Mustang. It has a Renesis Engine (rotary) so it has unique needs. Warm up required, familiarly with the dechoking procedure if you need it and monitoring of the oil level (used to lubricate the rotor vanes). Finally, you must know how to drive and properly use a stick shift. If you can do these things, you will be rewarded with utter joy. I smile everytime I warm mine up. I love it. Its different, Its amazing.

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  Lovin It - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By HOB - January 17 - 10:00 am

  The car looks and performs great. I would highly recommend the 6 speed as the automatic doesnt do the car justice!

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  fun for the money - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By vince - January 10 - 7:20 pm

  A performance vehicle that is also practical is hard to find in todays market. With its good looks, performance and practicality, the RX8 owns this market. Pros: Unique appearance Easy ingress, egress with "freestyle" doors Go Kart like road holding Good ergonomics Good acceleration if revs are kept up Cons: Somewhat harsh ride over rought roads but an acceptable for the handeling (it is a sportscar!) Small gas tank (limited range) OK sized trunk but small opening Pedals are slightly offset to the right. Built quality seems good. Renesis motor seems strong in my car and I have not had the flooding problem experienced by others. Its fun to wave at the other 8s you see

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  No problems, great on twisties - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By allston - December 30 - 11:26 am

  Im now at 30k miles, and the only maintenance work Ive had has been the recommended maintenance work. The fuel mileage seems to have improved a little from when I first purchased it, and the oil consumption is also down even though Ive been driving it harder. The car excels in the turns, and its fantastic at the track.

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  RX-8 is unbelievable ride - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By rboyle6978 - December 23 - 10:00 am

  The car is unbelievable. I dont have a bad thing to say about it. It is so much fun to drive and the performance is stellar.

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  RX-8 - a Family Rocket on Wheels - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By P.C.H. Cruiser - December 18 - 3:50 am

  With the wifes permission I went looking for a Miata to replace our 2003 Sequoia. Saw the RX-8, drove it, got it sideways on a suburban, could not stop laughing, went back and bought the car. The only problem is I cant get my wife out from behind the wheel and now must go back and buy her the Miata!! The fuel economy is awful but everything else is wonderful. For a family of three it makes a great family sedan that can carve corners while it goes to the grocery store. Its shiny black form reminds us of the Batmobile and, between its shape and the angry shriek it makes as it runs up to 9,000 RPMs, it turns heads where ever it goes. BUY IT !!!

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  Cute design and fun to drive - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By no name - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Difficult to see blind spot on drivers side, but awesome car to drive.

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  WE LOVE OUR BABY! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By KDJC81 - December 11 - 2:00 am

  Absolutely love this car. Continue to get compliments from people passing by. Very fun and comfortable to drive.

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  The 8 is enough - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By late8 - November 30 - 9:26 pm

  I just purchased the RX-8 in mid-May and I have already logged over 1000 miles and the handling of this car gets better as each mile clicks away. I didnt buy this car for torque and the gas mileage so far is slightly below average but the trade offs are great. Smooth revving engine, high powerband and very unique lines for the body style. The car handles great on tight corners.