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 851 through 860 of 879.00-
Not a 7, but still a 10! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By madmariner - July 5 - 10:00 amI have owned 3 RX-7s (80, 87 and 94) and Im very pleased that Mazda developed the RX-8. Although it lacks the punch and rail-like cornering of the twin turbo, it is much more practical and affordable and gives up nothing in the fun-to-drive category. And the lack of turbocharging should bode well for the longevity of the engine. The car does not have the fit and finish of some of its higher priced brethren, but it doesnt give up much and the performance, features and balance that you get in the RX-8 makes it a value that you simply cannot find elsewhere.
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This car exceeded all my expectations!!! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Bryan Mathews - July 5 - 10:00 amAn awesome car!!!!!!!!! This car is simply not a quantifiable machine on paper. You must see it in person to captures its full beauty.
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Fun to drive - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By Mike - July 1 - 7:26 pmThe first time I got this on a winding road I couldnt stop grinning. Just amazing handling. The price/fun ratio cant be beat.
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Mini Van...Who Needs One - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By BV04RX8 - June 19 - 8:16 amLots of choices out there to haul your family but not many that gives you the fun and accessibility of the RX8. I have tried putting a baby seat in Audi TTs, RSXs, BMW 330 coupes and none seem to work as well and as easy as the RX8. The trunk is a bit small for a stroller but it works. Plus, you can get several golf bags back there. The drive is really comfortable. It takes on bumps really well and can really hug the curves. If you see one used and you are thinking about buying it, check out the MazdaSpeed body kit as a add on. Makes a huge difference in the presence of your car and stands out among other cars. Really sharp. The only thing I would say is get one with low miles.
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The Best - 2006 Mazda RX-8
By Run - June 14 - 3:00 amDont think that this is a waste of money. This car has done a lot for me. I had a Honda and it broke down. So I decided to buy a Mazda; since the day I bought it my life driving a car has been great compared to drivina a Honda. It might be pricey but I can say it was worth it.
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A Blast To Drive! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Stroup - June 12 - 10:00 amI fell in love with this car from first site, and finally broke down and purchased a black manual, with grand touring, rotary accents, body appearance, and spoiler. It is so fun to drive, and turns a lot of heads. Comfortable for long drives as well, and really does well on the highway as well as windy mountain roads. Hugs the road like a pancake, and the engine sounds great! Fitting two in the back seat is such a huge plus (although dont make them sit back there for too long).....I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a sporty, fun car to drive that is still practical. GHave fun, and see you on the road!
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Zoom-zoom? They aint Kiddin!! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
By Letter-Rip - June 7 - 10:00 amWe (My wife and I) took our time and checked out a number of performance cars. When considering the thrill to price tag ratio, no other car came close. The engine looks no bigger than a beach ball,but with a 9000 rpm redline and snake in a rat-hole handling, its more than enough! My kids have plenty of room in the back and I feel they are well protected with the side curtain air-bags To sum it up, the head turning good looks of the RX-8 got us interested, the pure fun of the ride sealed the deal.
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Light and Quick - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By James, Dallas - May 24 - 10:00 amAs an Audi owner, I drove the TT Coupe prior to buying my RX-8, and I have to say the RX-8 blows away the TT. Hands down the RX-8 is lighter, more responsive, quicker, and more comfortable. In addition, the back seat is much roomier than the TT Coupe, in fact, adults can actually sit back there comfortably. The rotary engine purrs and demands to be driven between 4-5,000 RPMs. And with a red-line of 9,000, I have yet to use 6th gear. Cruising down the highway at 80 mph is easy on the engine in 5th gear. Since the car was just released, I dont have any maintenance history so I cant speak to that. But for the first 300 miles, this car cooks!
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Ive never been happier with a purchase - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By Kamen - May 11 - 2:00 amGreat to drive and it gets more looks and compliments than a Porsche. Bad on gas.
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RX-8 tally - 2004 Mazda RX-8
By James Akatyszewski - May 11 - 2:00 amIt starts red lining at 9000 rpms. Its tourqe isnt as powerful and fast off the line but once it goes into a higher rpm it revs very quickly and possible to keep pace with 250hp. The 2 rotors spinning with no jerking motion gives the car a higher red line, higher rpm and helps the rpms rev faster to feel as a race car. Performace of the car with windy curves and almost pulling a G on the skid pad is great. It has rear wheel drive not good for winter if it snows. The lighter, smaller, and modern technology with the engine gives me faith in Mazda to produce a proficient motor.
