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:

• 

  Coolio - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By Farah - December 29 - 2:00 am

  the automoblie is a very equppid machine tat i would like to buy one day

• 

  Zoom Zoom - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By janway3 - November 28 - 10:00 am

  My wife talked me into test driving it while I was preparing to buy a Mazda 6. Well that was all it took. A lot of car for the price. will make you feel young again at any age. And talk about drawing attention, the stylig is great.

• 

  Fast, Practical, and Dignified - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By daniel - November 26 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned BMWs Audis, VWs and other exiting cars, and this is one of THE BEST. A coupe with all the practicalities of a sedan without the drawbacks. If you have passion for exciting cars, this is the right for You.

• 

  Love it! - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By Branz - November 10 - 9:53 pm

  Ive had this vehicle nine months now and still get compliments like its brand new. I travel for work and have put 21000 miles on it already and only had to take it in once to get the catalytic converter replaced. It handles so great at high speeds. So glad I got this sports car and also happy that I got one thats loaded. Took a sneak peek at the 2009 model and may upgrade in another year - theyre only gettin better!

• 

  This is different. - 2006 Mazda RX-8
  By buteman - October 31 - 1:56 pm

  I honestly could not see myself in one of these cars, but Im really enjoying the experience. Perhaps with just buying this lovely car Im not quite qualified to offer an opinion but here is my initial impressions. I was fortunate to find a low mileage ( 25k,in kilometers ) GT model with the luxury package and automatic ( wife needs auto. ) We took it for a good run on a winding highway,,,,wow, it has more than enough power for me ( Im 64 ) the handling was great, the paddle shifters are great fun, so smooth a ride. The interior is so luxurious and very comfortable, oh sure it sucked some fuel but that is a known fact with this car and thats the price you pay,,no big deal. Nice car !!

• 

  INCREDIBLE machine... RX-8 = FUN! - 2005 Mazda RX-8
  By Russ G - October 29 - 3:00 pm

  Had this a month now... UNBELIEVABLE! Have yet to really run her hard as only 600 miles but have already seen the potential. Dealership could be much improved customer service wise, but got TREMENDOUS discount! Traded an 04 Accord for something sporty yet still practical for kids ... thrilled with the choice! Only 2 drawbacks: came with summer tires (live in snowy WI) and could use bigger gas tank (mileage has averaged 21-22mpg). Researched almost every car ... this was the PERFECT choice!

• 

  rotor - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By TeddyNugz - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding.Smooth ride.Seat of the pants handling.Accelerates as if it had turbos.Im keepin this one in the family.

• 

  Love it! - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By TTShirey - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I got mine about a month ago, and Im absolutely thrilled with it. I get a lot of looks, and its a blast to drive.

• 

  Mazda RX8 after one month - 2004 Mazda RX-8
  By bcerussell - October 16 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is an absolute delight to drive. It is quick and handles with ease. Strangers stop to comment on its good looks and it is quite a head turner. The ride is smoother and more quiet than a new Volvo I recently drove, and seating is quite comfortable for me at 6 feet and 215 pounds.

• 

  Family rotory rocket! - 2007 Mazda RX-8
  By Rex8it - October 11 - 10:23 pm

  Two weeks after I bought the car my wife found out we are having a baby! Im glad I didnt get that Z4! The car has been great over the past 3 months. I have never had it in the shop and it eats corners. My friend races on the track and he was very impressed with the stock handling. Brakes are good and man have I needed them. The steering response and feel is amazing. I love how light and nimble it feels. And what can you say about the engine! It sounds great and has great pep at the high revs. When you are up around 6,500 rpm the thing moves! Not so great at low rpm though. I have to say that the only reason i didnt give it all 10s is because it is not an exotic and I want one!