2005 MAZDA RX-8

Mazda building another awesome machine

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

Before I bought this car I read some reviews from other owners and forums all talking about how bad rotary engines are and my personal experience I just love them they are really fun really smooth and a 9,000 rpm redline with the RX8 suspension chassis and steering response around the corners is not a better car than this is just incredible how great of a job Mazda did with this car definitely a must have best car I ever owned

A car for people who love cars

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: Value Rating:

This isn't my first rotary powered vehicle. I used to own an 86 first generation rx7 with a carbureted 12a 1.1 litter 2 rotor wankel. The car was an absolute blast. Minor maintenence kept the rotary alive well over 300k miles without any (I emphasize on ANY!!) internal engine work. Including the apex seals. I now drive an 05 shinka. Let me tell you. To say that I'm satisfied with the quality and reliability of my vehicle would be a complete understatement. It is simple to work on. Comfortable. My ac works fantastic at 115k miles. The car idles and pulls just fine. Burns oil just like it should. Never once has overheated on me. Never had to top off coolant. To say that the renesis wankel (what the engine is actually referred to) is put down so often only shows that rotary engines aren't exactly for everyone. Yeah my car has a few indicator lights on. I can't turn the dsc off without pulling the fuse, and it really tanks gas. But it's my money. I don't regret purchasing this car. Some advice. If your looking to buy one first off good luck finding a cheap one and second off drive the car for a long time and really get it hot before you purchase it. Kinda goes without saying.

Awesome car for Rotary lovers!

Performance: 0 Comfort: 0 Fuel Economy: 0 Fun To Drive: 0 Interior Design: 0 Exterior Design: 0 Build Quality: 0 Reliability: 0 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5 Safety Rating: 5 Technology Rating: 5 Value Rating: 5

This is a really great car, don't let negative reviews sway you as most of the negative reviews are from people who don't want to put in the extra time and care in maintenance. To truly appreciate this amazing vehicle, you need to have a decent understanding of the Wankel rotary engine. It's a super high revving engine due to its design (Redlines at 9000 RPMs). It's owners must love it enough to regularly check the fluids and conduct basic maintenance. The RX-8 will treat you awesome as long as you treat it awesome. The only thing I would recommend is that a perspective owner has the time and funds for keeping it maintained. If you drive it hard and keep the RPM's high, the engine will last a long, long time without carbon build-up. Just take the time to learn about it. I love driving mine! I bought mine as a project car and I have it almost all brand new now. I put a newly rebuilt engine in so the new engine only has 4,184 miles on it, although the odometer still has 172,824 on it. This car handles amazingly and accelerates like crazy once you pass 5k Rpms. The sound of a rotary engine is unlike anything. Another great thing is that they are highly customizable with wonderful support through online forums, clubs, and rotary fanatics. I'll never get rid of mine, no matter what the cost over my lifetime. I have never driven anything as fun as the RX-8, and I've been around a long time.

Still crazy after all these years

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Can't believe the reviews I read about quality; this sports car has easily been the most reliable car I've ever had. After being left on the side of the road by mustangs and Camaros in the past, as a 6'4" guy I couldn't even fit in the new versions. So I tried this Japanese sports car after my AWD GSX blew, and I fit in it like a glove. You won't find many for sale, but that's how you know its good, and you should grab one before they disappear (like the RX-7). I got a fully loaded sport version in winning blue metallic with the spoiler and trim, and there isn't another one like it within 1000 miles. This is a special car.

Worst mistake of my life

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Do not buy this car. If you are thinking of buying this car go to the Rx8 forums, everything that can go wrong with this car will go wrong. This car has been the financial ruin of me. When I bought it the KBB price was $17k and thats what I paid. 3 years later I tried to trade it in, and was offered $3k. Bear in mind that it is in better condition now than when I bought it. Every year I spend at least $2-3k on repairs. The only luck I have had is the engine seems to be the only one that works, for now. Thats right $2-3k/year with a healthy engine. The car is crap. Other cars are just as fun to drive with much lower cost. Save yourself and run away.

A fun car if you know how to drive it.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I've had my 2005 RX8 Grand Touring for just over a year. The worst i've had to do put it in the shop for was because someone (previous owner) bypassed a fuse and shorted a brake light out. Have already been informed of some problems i currently have and know how to fix them. Even with the known problems the car still runs great, gets decent fuel economy ,16-21 mpg, and is extremely fun to drive. I wouldn't trade it for anything. Do plan on doing an RX7 FD Twin Turbo engine swap to it when i get to around 110k miles and rebuild its stock engine (miata's are fun with rotary engines too.)

P.O.S!!!!!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

I had my car for 4 years and it is the worst car ever! I've had 3 engine replacements and 3 transmission replacements. The car has left me stranded numerous times and the brakes even go out on me. I've also had to replace my coils every 3 months. And once the warranty is up good luck trying to get the thing to run!! It overheats and shuts off when driving long distances. It looks nice but runs like crap I wish I never got this car. And now getting rid of it is even harder due to all the problems it has.

Never Again

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

This has bee one of my worst car buying experiences. Its hot, and fun to drive and all that, but the air conditioner never works. I have taken it to dealers in 3 states and they all say the same thing, "that's just the way it is, get used to it." I will never drive another Mazda because their customer service everywhere is awful!

Read before you buy a 2005 Maxda RX8

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

The rotary engine is horrible, you have to treat it like a diesel in cold weather which we didn't know and got it flooded. It ended up costing us $1500 to finally get it started and to help prevent it from happening again but now I want rid of it. Check engine light is on all the time and no one knows why. It now sounds bad and every one is now telling me after owning it for 6 months with 69,000 that the rotary engine don't live past 60,000. I know I'm going to lose with trading it in put I can't afford to keep it running. Wish I had never seen this beautiful car but the rotary engine is horrible.

2nd To NONE

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My first RX8 was totaled in an accident (hit by red light run side driver door impact). Fire/EMT said side airbag saved serious head injury if not my life. When seeking replacement car I didn't hesitate to get another RX8. I've not been disappointed in the past 6 years and don't want to part with my RX8. Previously had RX7 and had problems with restart on cold engine, but never with my 2005. The only thing I've had to replace is the battery and tires. Love this car! And I have a Viper so I have real comparative performance. Not that the RX8 is anywhere near a Viper, but when I don't drive the Viper I don't at all mind my RX8.

Warranty ran out & 1 thing after another

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Bought the car because of looks and the zoom, zoom, zoom when I accelerated. Then the dealership made a recommended adjustment on one of my visits (due to a grinding/rattle noise on sudden accelerations from day one) and the responsiveness was never the same. Right after the 5 yr warranty ran out, the dealership in St. Pete announced that the vibration I was feeling was the engine mounts being kaput. This was a known problem they got a bulletin on. Never told me. They quoted $700 to fix. We bought Mazda mounts from a dealership on line and Midas installed-total cost $300. Soon thereafter the airbag light went on. It flashes or stays on permanently. So got to take it in again.

Thanks Wankel!

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is my second RX8 - my first fell victim to a drunk driver - Handles EXTREMELY well, except in water. A little iffy on gas mileage, except I noticed in mid to high RPM range, gets way better mileage. Great car to race from a stop despite most RWD performances. Very crowded engine bay so semi difficult to work on, but a simple design and easy to take care of. Overall this car is a very mutual car, what I mean is, if you treat it good, it will treat you just as good or better. Oil changes and refills can get annoying, but definitely worth the trouble I'd say!

Lot of engine for a little car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 4

I've had my RX8 for three years, and I still get comments about it every now and then. It's a unique car, considering the rotary engine. Let me start there: The rotary has a great range, getting up to 8,000 rpm. It really starts to sing once you get above 4k. You can tell Mazda's engineers spent most of their time and money on the engine. Inside, you get most of the typical features for this kind of car. The gauges look really cool, but that's really the only thing inside that was engineered. The backseat is comfortable enough, and surprisingly roomy with the four doors. This car is a blast to drive, but it can be a rough ride, especially with the Bridgestone OEM tires. Somewhat rattly.

Awesome sports car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This car is awesome. The best car that I have ever driven. The sweet spot for this wonderful rotary motor is between 5000-8000 rpm, below that it`s just a civilized sedan. I love this car on the highway, so comfortable and at ease with any speed you drive it. The handling of this car is just fabulous thanks to the 50/50 weight ratio front/rear. Even the looks on this car are too good to be true. I don`t know why everyone says to always check the oil level on this car…I've driven about 2500 miles with it since I got it and still at the same mark on the stick. The front seats are nice and comfortable. The BOSE sound system is nice and has a decent surround effect with it's 9 speakers.

Dream come true!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Just purchased this awesome machine a little over a month ago. This car is real fun to drive and really stands out by it`s looks and rotary motor. Only thing I don`t really like about it is its fuel consumption but other than that it`s a sheer pleasure to drive. I read a lot of people need to add oil, but have done 2500 mi without needing to add a drop. The best place for it is on the highway, mind you curving roads are fine if you don`t mind the bumps. Suspension a little firm on this car. The Bose sound system is just fine and has a great surround effect and the front seats are very comfortable for 2 hour + rides.

so sexy!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I just bought my car with barely 30000 miles and I love it!! I have always owned sports like cars but this one, hands down, takes the cake!! I was sketchy about buying a mazda because the last mazda i owned (a mx3) gave me alot of problems :( true this car may not be good for grocery shopping etc, but if you let her warm up and rev the engine before you kill it (not that hard rt??) she is a sexy lil thing to drive and I love her!!

Need To Know!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Rx-8's are good/great cars but few people know how to take care of them. They are amazing for handling and they are engineering marvels when it comes to the motor. The problem is most people who buy them, do it for the looks not the motor. Rotary is an amazing thing. YOU CANNOT BABY IT! When you buy a car do some research. Understand what your driving and what you need to do. rotary has a different oiling system and it requires the motor to be run at high rpm to keep it well oiled. I own a R1 93 RX-7 and My Rx-8 i know how to take care of them and if u listen to these words you wont have an issue. Check the oil every 750-1000 miles to make sure its full.

Another love-hate relationship

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

While I love the look and feel of my car I have had many difficulties with it. Mazda acknowledges the engine problems that the 2004/2005 RX 8's have and thus have extended the drive train warranty. However, my car has been in the shop more times that I can count. The check engine light is constantly on, even after my engine was replaced! Started with the typical stalling you see in these cars, and went downhill from there. Most recently my oil cooler line completely rusted out, which the mechanic states he has seen in multiple RX 8s. It's a fun car, but as the dealership has told me AFTER pushing me to purchase the car...it should be used as a sports car, not your every day car.

MY RX8 OF 3 YRS

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I have had my 8 for 3 years now got it when I graduated from high school as a first car it ran great never any problems and really fun to drive. 2 years in my cat converter got plugged which gave it no power this was fixed by the dealer no problem free at cost have to change the oil at least every 2-3 months they key is taking care of the car don't be cheap n turn the engine off ull flood it or worse there are no problems if it is taken care of i have also done my car up n boy its been great!2 10" Alpine Subs V12 Alpine Amp Greddy SE exhaust custom led lights K&N Intake

In it for the looks

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I wanted to own a great looking sports car at least once before I was too old and would look silly in one. I had been a committed Accord owner for 20 years (cannot say enough about their great reliability.) But I love the way the RX 8 looks and I get compliments on it. It is fun to drive, but that blast off that I got on acceleration, which really sold me on this car, was lost after taking it to the dealer in response to some recall notice a couple years ago. They adjusted something and it was never the same. Anytime I go to the dealer for odd noises, the only thing they do is say it's my fault because I used regular grade gas. Car was recently idling with loud vibration. Coils! only 28K mi

Worse car I ever owned

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 1

Car looks great, however its 4 years old and I have replaced: engine, transmission, extensive work on front end, towed 3 times for no start, headlight assembly (twice), rear taillight assembly, motor mounts (twice), oil leak around oil pump, and paint peeling. Now its back in the shop for no start, and AC problems, also oil leaking again. Most problems happened before 40,000 miles. Most unreliable car I have ever owned.

Don't bother wasting your money!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 1 Exterior Design: 3 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 1 Reliability Rating: 1

This car is horrible, it has spent more time in the shop than on the road. I have had four recalls, over heating problem, flooding, starter, risk of it catching fire! and have had it towed four times to the dealership. It doesn't like hot weather, or cold weather, it is the most unreliable car ever!! I bought it brand new off the show room floor, and I HATE it! Save yourself a lot of headache and go buy a G37 or G37. This morning, went to start it to go to work, it wont start, so guess what, towed again to the dealership. This car stinks! it only has 50 kilometers on it.

Great car, poor mileage

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is fantastic! The most fun car to drive I've ever driven. It can hit up to 8000 RPM without any trouble, in fact, its healthy for the car to do this, as it cleans out the engine. Incredible handling: you can literally go around a 90 degree turn at 40 mph without any trouble! While the car doesn't have the acceleration of a corvette or a 350z (5.9 from 0-60), its handling is better than a 350z and rivals that of a corvette. Reason is a 50/50 rear-to-front weighting of the car. There is no 500lb engine under the hood, as the rotary engine isn't a typical heavy engine. Thus, there is no front heavy, back sliding that occurs in a typical car in turns.

Crossing my fingers

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

An answer to my mid-life crisis, I was coerced into buying the lil red sedoupe (sedan,coupe) rather than a used luxury sedan. 47, no wife, no kids: it seemed to make sense, I've owned nothing but SUVs/Mini Vans since the disco era. The first thing i noticed was the ride noise from the standard 17'inch tires. Also, the rear light housing was fogged up/filled with inner perspiration. Both items served as bargaining chips & I managed to walk out with it for a mere $11K. With only 37K miles, I was happy. Getting in/out is a challenge with my 275lb frame, but the car's an excellent incentive to lose weight and I've got nothing but compliments from friends/co-workers. 30 days so far, no problems.

BIGGEST MISTAKE

Performance: 1 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I had the car in the shop 8 times during the first year. The car would not start and none of the Mazda mechanics at the dealership could tell me why. I had to contact the Mazda corp. in California. They literally told me that the "RX8 is not to be used to drive short distances under 20 miles consecutively. It is meant for roadtrips and long commutes" I told them that they need to put that on their website and that it was a scam. So if you need to take it get groceries or drive to work under 20 miles one way, you are out of luck. HEED MY WARNING!!!!!! DON'T BUY THIS CAR!!!!!!!

It's a love, hate relationship

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

I purchased my RX8 used almost 2 years ago. My engine started "fluttering" 4 days after I bought the car. I have only had problems since. If your RX-8 is not idling correctly, you need to have the engine replaced. Finally after 2 years of problems, mine are about to be solved. If you are looking to buy this car, please know that it is not a grocery getter. You have to heat the engine completely up before you can turn it off. Do yourself a HUGE favor and do some research. You would be amazed at what needs to be done for the upkeep of this car. I love mine to the point that I cant trade it in. Make sure you are willing to put in the time and effort to keep it up.

Most vain car ever made

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Ok so I bought this car fresh after becoming single and this car was the vainest purchase I have ever made in my life. The car IS sexy, but that is it. It is not cheap, HORRIBLE ON GAS, and EXTREMELY HIGH maintenance!!! You have to check the oil a lot, it has to be run everyday or it won't turn over. Please learn from my mistake and buy a reliable and practical car.

I love my Rx-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car!!! I have wanted one since they came out (when I was 11) because my grandma had a yellow Rx-7 when I was little, and I missed it. It drives great, though loud, I love that. You have to use the best quality EVERYTHING!!! I cant stress that more. I live in the hills and it is fun to drive on the curves. I just bought it a month ago as my first car...LOL :)

Original Owner for 3 years

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased this vehicle new 3 years ago this month. This is the only car I have ever owned where after 3 years of ownership, I still have that new car excitement about it. I doubt I will ever part with this car and hope it will become a classic. I live in an urban environment and get a good mix of metropolitan and highway driving. Driving an RX-8 in the city is a blast. Its nimbleness and cornering ability make it capable of getting places fast. My favorite thing about driving this car is being able to fly around a corner, and if you feel is start to slip, goosing the throttle a little and feel it grip through the turn as if it were on rails.

Very Pleased

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Just bought used 2005 with 26K miles. Had to immediately replace tires with snow tires (no problem ....am driving it in winter in midwest...$1000 for tires but should last 4-6 winter seaons). Alternator went out but warranty still good! (0 cost to me). Fuel economy is about 19 MPH combined Hwy, City. Rear quater view is restricted but acceptable. This car rocks! Fun to drive...you have the option of automatic, or you can still manually shift it (no clutch!) which I like to do about half the time. Roomy and comfortable interior (I'm 6'2" and still plenty of room). Mirror has garage door opener built in. Overall I really like this car...sports car with a backseat!

An Amazing Compromise

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

After 15+ years in front-wheel drive slushbox-equipped cars, I told my wife my next car would be RWD with manual transmission. She said fine, as long as it had four seats so I could continue to take the kids to school. I knew going in that the car was light on torque and thirsty for fuel. I didn't really mind because I was looking for a driver's car, not an econobox or quarter-mile dueler. The car is amazing to drive and I have yet to find its limits. I replaced the tires with BFG gForce KDWs so, with the amazing suspension I suspect the limits are high indeed. Launched properly it can go well enough but it really likes to turn and stop too. Comfort and accommodations are good too.

Great 3rd Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I loved this car for the first six months. The handling is phenomenal. Convinced my wife that it was practical for our family b/c it was a 4 door. However, this car is undriveable in winter, and thus, remains parked for nearly 4 months of the year here in Michigan. If I could, I would keep it as a third car to drive for fun. It just isn't practical for me as a daily driver.

Rotary car doesn't fade

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

There is a tendency to do errands in zig-zag back and forth across town style. It is very difficult to go home after completing the errands. It is difficult to do the actual errand, because you don't want to get out of the car to go in anywhere. I plan out huge, inefficient road trips on computer trip software. I'm fond of poking along routes that skulk through the corridors between the major interstates. 18 hours at a pop sometimes. Always sticking to posted speeds because I'm in "local territory", unshielded by the usual pack of rabbit-chasers and "what I can get away with" cruisers. Bottom line? There's no end in sight with driving this car at this point.

2005 Grand Touring Automatic

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I sort of inherited this car with 2800 miles on it from a former Ford exec and I have the automatic with paddle shifters. The car is a hoot to drive fast and the only trouble I have had was a trim issue in the interior and the spring in the filler door. My car runs great, gets 16-18 mpg in town and 20 mpg on the road, with about 1000 mi per quart of oil. It's tight as a drum but only has 16000 miles since this is my second car and I only drive it from Apr-Nov. My dealer experience was underwhelming on the engine recall - what a bunch of clods - but so far just maintenance and cleaning. I keep waiting for the problems, but I really like the car.

Still a treat to drive after 3 years!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I don't know of a better handling sports car for less than 5 times the price. The ride is firm, but comfortable. I am blown away with how comfortable a long distance cruiser the RX-8 is. I get 20 mpg combined city/hwy with spirited, but legal, driving. The rotary engine responds well to some pampering. I use 4 oz synthetic 2-cycle oil and 4 oz Lucas Upper Cylinder Lube in every 10 gallons of gas. That's probably why my mileage is better than most. Even a mechanic at the dealer commented that it was the smoothest running RX- 8 he had ever heard. The off-the-line grunt is weak, but once you get the revs up to 5000 rpm it is a winner. Drive the rotary right (high rpm) and you will be thrilled!

Great value, great fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car used 15 months ago. For the money, it's hard to imagine a car that offers the combination of spirited driving, mechanical quality, and inspired style. I also see no more than two RX-8s per month driving in the Chicago area. It's sweet to drive a rarely-seen car among all the bland brands. The car has a cool factor that usually comes with cars twice the sticker price. The only negatives? The paint chips easily and the gas mileage stinks. I knew that going in, though.

Exciting Machine

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car as a left over model so it was still brand new but with a nice discount. That and the style were initially my main reasons for purchasing the car. I would say I'm glad the pieces came together the way they did. I have owned 20 cars and 1 motorcycle and I'm only 30, and this vehicle is one of the most fun I have driven. One downfall was it didn't start out as fast as I would have liked but with a few minor upgrades the motor woke up a lot and it is now as fast as a 2008 Mustang GT 5 speed but handles 10 times better. Tests have been done with a stock RX-8 vs a 350z which is a faster car, the RX-8 matched the 350z's track time because the handling was superb to the quicker car.

Can you trash it?

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I drive my 05 GT every day and take it to the strip every weekend. It's a great automobile for the person that likes to go a little faster with a little more style. Amazing grip on the black top. Aggressive look, can't go wrong with a 9,000 rpm redline. When you first start the RX-8 the motor makes the best sound in the world. I thrash my RX-8 every day of the week. The Greddy turbo is a great turbo to add to the RX-8 upwards of 70hp gain. and it makes you forget about the absence of torque. Top end never fails. Had it stock up to 143 mph. No problems with maintenence so far. However be careful where your feet are. a couple wrong moves and the RX-8 will flood in a heart beat. Best car ever.

My RX 8 is still thrilling to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car and it continues to be a kick to drive. Originally there were some problems with the starter and the battery but once these were replaced and the computer adjusted the car is very reliable.

Trouble

Performance: 2 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 2 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

This is a beautiful car and has a very clever design (I think I was won over by the suicide doors). Not exactly comfortable in the back, but it works. However, this car has been in the shop more than my 65 bug was. The first 6 mo of owning this car was so frustrating with frequent recalls and the car would stall easily. Then we had about 12 months of bliss. Now, at the ripe old age of 2.5 yrs, the car has been in the shop 6 times in 5 months. It has left me stranded (and not because the car was not warmed up). The dealers can't find anything "wrong" with it. I plan to get rid of it in the next month or so b/c I just cant have such an unreliable car.

Fun To Drive

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Very fun to drive except for the horrible gas mileage. Everyone says it's a sports car but for a car that cant turn a sub 14 second quarter mile, 14 mpg is pretty sorry. I will concede it does carve corners as well as probably anything else out there for the price.

20000 mile update

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When I bought it, I wrote here that it was an exercise in engineering theory and perfection, but not practical due to low fuel efficiency vs. high fuel costs. Well, 20K miles later, I'm still infatuated with it, wouldn't think of driving anything else, and have gotten used to its MPG after an '05 Mustang driver told me he gets the same 15 mpg I do. I'd MUCH rather have this than a Mustang!! I admit that 15 mph is around town and short highway runs, usually doing 100 mph+ to and from work, so of course it's going to suck the gas. But the handling of this thing !! :) And the sound system can't be beat. And it's still the most gorgeous thing on the road if you ask me.

Best Sports Car for the Buck

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

By far the funnest car to drive short of shelling out 130k for a Porsche 911 GT3. A very beautiful design. I test drove the Nissan 350Z and knew within 1/4 mile which car I liked better...the RX8. Great handling, stability, and braking. I do have after-market BF Goodrich G-Force, which are incredible and probably a much better tire then stock (first upgrade). Very comfortable on highway. The car is deceiving in how fast it really is. You will be going 100mph and not even notice it and very stable and easy to drive at that speed. Bose Stereo is great. Transmission (manual) is smooth as butter and has very short throw. Your power is at 5000RPM and up, so you have to learn how to drive this car

Rotar-heads first rx-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I've owned 4 rx-7s. Only one of which was a lemon because I purchased from a friend and it was not well taken care of. I love the rotary engines and they have all been great. As long as you make sure the oil is filled with quality oil and the coolant is full all of the time you should be fine. The Rx-8 is less of a car in some manners and more in other areas than the rx-7. I love them both but think the rx-7s had more character to them. They were simpler and not so many sensors and design flaws. I hate the gas mileage and some of the rattles inside but the car so far is good. I have had it in the shop to repair many things/rattles and other things and so far they have not complained.

Caveat emptor

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 2

Let the buyer beware, indeed! This is my daily driver, plenty of miles, over 53,000 in 22 months. Comfortable and a pleasure to drive, but fixes are a pain (towing, tires are non-standard, weeks at a dealership, and worse once the warrenty expired). Gas mileage and cup holder complaints are valid. Tail light seals are faulty. Many rattles from underneath - try wire (metal) ties - and inside (super glue?). I traded my Miata for this? Am searching for my next car right now. Very disappointed in the quality and/or reliability of the RX8 after spending the time to locate my dream car.

Buyer beware...

Performance: 4 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 2 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 2

A couple of things interested buyers should know. The bridgestone tires wrapped around the 18 in alloy rims are horrible in snow! Get winter tires or a 2nd car. MPG is another problem. The 05 RX-8 had a couple recalls already. The 2 back seats in the car are for children! Not for adults, unless your under 5'2 you will not be comfortable. At low cruzin' speeds the cabin noise is over whelming. But the fact is the RX-8 is still a pretty fun car to drive. If you dont mind the shortcomings.

Best car I have ever owned

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

With just a recall for replacement of starter, and spark plug wires, car has been excellent and the best compared to late model BMW 3-series, and Lexus IS 300 I have owned.

It's great and almost practical

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Purchased w/10K miles on it. Have had no problems, just regular visits for O/C, etc. Car has been great (now 20K Mi). You need to get over 4K RPMs to appreciate the car, handling is great and it's plain fun to drive. Have used winter Dunlops and aside from high drifts, it drives great on snow. Trunk is deceptively large although back seat is only usable if the front seats are in mid position. Mileage is average and engine burns about 1qt every 1000 miles. For the price it's a great value, particularly with the 4yr 50K warranty. A good sportscar option less pedestrian than eclipse or Z. Have owned Acuras, Jags and MB's, this is fun & saves $!

Love the car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This is an outstanding sports car. If you know how to handle a rotary engine, it should last you a life time. Read the owners manual carefully and follow its instructions on warm-up and down. It doesn't take that much time for either. My wife and I have taken it on a few road trips and were pleased with the overall comfort. It has an incredible stereo system. The shifting (manual) is very smooth. The seat heaters can burn your fanny off if you are not careful!

Still love it, but a big baby!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I bought this car new in '05 and have put 20,000 miles on it so far. I love this car! My only negatives are constantly having to check the oil and if you shut the car off and it didn't warm up, you are in big trouble! I've have to have it towed to the dealership because of this! Always let the car warm up before shutting it off!

Oh Shinka!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

My Shinka is hot! Been on numerous tri-state road trips and the fun quotient cannot be matched. Unique looks of the Shinka garner a lot of admiration even from fellow RX-8 owners. Has passed all recall tests with flying colors. Similar bugs already mentioned but overall an awesome, sexy yet functional car. Only cons - light colored leather and the gas mileage.

RX-8, Most fun car for the money

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been a fan of the old RX-7s since my youth so as soon as the divorce was final; it was time to trade in the Tundra for a loaded RX-8. I have owned many vehicles and this one by far takes the cake. I have never driven a more fun peppy car in all my days. The way it takes corners and accelerates on to the highways is a thing of beauty. The 9000 RPM redline is a dream and going over 80 miles an hour in 3rd is quite a feat.

Head tuner

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

The handling on this car is excellent. The power is great at high rpm. The look of this car is like no other sport cars out there. No a lot of RX-8 owners out there, so you will turn heads as you drive around town.

Stay Away From This Car!!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Beautiful car, inside and out, except under the hood. Mazda really goofed when they decided to bring back the rotary engine. Very big mistake on their part. Loved the car for the first 30,000 miles then the nightmare began. Rough idle and cut off at stops. Had it towed and Mazda claimed everything was fine... what a joke. Mine was in the shop 9 times in the past 6 months for this problem. All Mazda does is add and change out the engine mounts. Good luck to you innocent people who still have yours, traded mine two weeks ago for a 2007 Mitsubishi Spyder. Could not be happier to be rid of my RX-8 headache. Beware!!

Engine is a disaster

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Going to trade my RX-8 tomorrow. Been in for rough idle and cutting off (in traffic) 9 times in 6 months. Mazda has no fix for this unreliable engine. They can only add engine mounts and brackets to the engine... yeah, makes no sense to me either. Beautiful car, horrible engine!!! Stay away from this car until they start putting a reliable engine in them. First 30,000 miles were wonderful, but beware - once you turn 30001 it goes down hill from there. Cold and hot outdoor temperatures play a big part in the rough idle as well. Again beware of this car. Don't lose money on it like I have.

Zoom Zoom Fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've had my RX-8 almost 2 years now. I liked the cornering and the thrust at high revs compared to the competition and I thought the interior was superior as well (besides the location of the cup holder, bad place). My friends do not mind riding in the back and they get a kick of the back doors. The RX-8 really sticks to the road on hair pin corners and switch backs. For about 10 miles my drive to work is full of hair pins and switch backs. This car helps me look forward to getting to work. I love to drive, and this car satisfies me.

More problems than its worth

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I have tried to like this car. Looks great. However have had many problems. Replaced both headlight assembly and taillight assembly for moisture problems. Front end, exhaust, brakes have been worked on. Replaced motor mounts, spark plugs, and now transmission. Still have a tapping noise in the engine when in gear. Lots of road noise. Tired of taking it to the dealership. Had a 1993 Mustang that gave me less trouble.

I love this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Traded in a Miata for this car with no regrets so far. I love the interior and titanium grey color. I love the suicide doors where I can put my bags. The back seats are comfy too.

From Acura to Mazda

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

When I traded in my RSX type-S I thought I would regret it, but I love my RX-8, recalls and all. Yes, it has bad mpg and has to be wound up to move but it is a sports car I that is what one should expect. This is the best ride of any sports car for the money. I only drive back and forth from work with the rare trip out of town, but this car always makes it enjoyable, even though it takes it longer to warm up than drive to work. I would suggest this car to anyone who is looking for more than basic transportation. This is a very enjoyable car that can easily be your only car.

Better than ever

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love the acceleration especially on LA freeways, and it's roomy enough for four, and can load it up with lots of bags, boxes or groceries with the convenient four doors. Its performance, handling and reliability have been excellent. I haven't had to do any maintenance like adding oil or anything else. It's fun and easy to drive.

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great all round car! Recommend for anyone who wants a good car that handles and looks great or as a second vehicle for the family man/woman. Very fun to drive. Only wish it had better gas mileage ( I get 17 city and 20.5 hwy) and even though it is quick, just a bit more torque would be needed if you like to have low 0-60 times.

Performance and Design beats MPG

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Love the looks and performance of this automobile. Interior accommodations are very nice and high quality. I have been looking at these autos for the last three years and finally took the plunge and found a low mileage 05. Prices appear to be falling and the car doesn't appear to have the residual that I thought it would, Seems folks might have been scared off by the less than ideal mpg and high octane requirements. All in all this is an excellent vehicle that performs beautifully, looks outstanding, handles like a slot car and has good Japanese quality.

zoom zoom fun

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

I really love to drive this car and drive it fast. It will hit turns harder than a sport bike and ask for more. I don't like the gas mileage which is 18mpg if I run the heck out of it and 21 if I don't. This could be the perfect sports car if it had a healthy torque boost on the low end. Other than that it is really a blast to drive.

RX-8 Rocks

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The RX-8 is a great car on the curves and is really fun to drive, the main complaint is the amount of torque (too little) and the gas mileage is terrible (I get 16.5 mpg), but besides those 2 issues I wouldn't change it.

Mazda in Waco, TX

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I just bought my dream car. Never thought I'd own a sports car and now I do. The RX-8 is sporty yet is also has a backseat, four doors, and a trunk to hold groceries. I love it!

RX-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

I love my RX-8. I think it has a great sleek design that really turns heads and the back doors were a great idea for those who want a sports car, but still have the comfort of a four door sedan. The car handles great & really grips the road, however it is very important to warm the vehicle up before driving in the cold weather otherwise you could possibly flood the engine. Also, you really need to keep an eye on the oil level because with the rotary it burns very hot. Other than that, the car is a ton of fun and really a head turner!

Head Turner

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I have never had a vehicle which gets so much attention. It dares to be different. It strikes up conversations with people who normally care less about cars. The engine runs incredibly smooth, I would rather listen to it than the radio! Incredibly quick and nimble, a great year round driver (even in Wisconsin winters). Plenty of room for back seat passengers, the trunk carries much more than you would expect.

Don't she purr?

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have had 2 Mustang GTs, a Corvette, a RX-7 and presently have a Chrysler Crossfire (new) and a Mercedes C230 and this is my favorite so far. The comfortable ride doesn't beat you up, responsive engine, smooth shifting transmission, the Bose stereo and I could go on. But Al Pacino summed it up best in Scent of a Woman when he said " Don't she purr, though" while driving the Ferrari.

Nice Car Fun to Drive

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I have had mine for over a year, still love it. Of course it's bad in the snow but it's rear wheel drive so I expected that.

Mazda no go!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

Since I have had this car for the last four months the dealer has had it one month out of the first 3 months. There is very little acceleration and it has been taken to the dealer. After Mazda had it for a week they called and said take it home, go through two full tanks of premium gas (that's all I use anyway ) and then if it still has no acceleration we will look further into it (in other words they do not quickly stand behind their car).

Zoom Zoom

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great 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.

hard on old bodies

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

It is a little too low to the ground for this old body. I would not buy it again only for this reason. Otherwise it is a great car. Beautiful to look at and every one comments on it.

New Toy

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned 2 previous rotary engine cars in the past, plus 2 Mustang GTs and 1 Corvette. This car has been great so far. Very fun to drive. Shifts easier than the 2004 Chrysler Crossfire we own. Very rare on the road (unlike Mustangs). Ample power and torque spread across a wide powerband. Gas mileage is mediocre.

Great car with issues, bad company.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

The car is very fun to drive, its handling dynamics are excellent. Interior is well done with everything nicely laid out. Good storage for a small car. Back seat room is good, adults seat comfortably. Truck space is good for a sports car but small opening. Over all this is a very livable sports car. Now the bad, gas mileage is the worst I have ever experienced in any car. I get 11mpg city while driving normally. I have had the car to Mazda who tells me that it is normal mileage and they will do nothing about it. Mazda’s service is very poor and the company does not likes to support this car. Mazda has given others a hard time on warranty work or refused to acknowledge problems.

Head Turner

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great looking car in Velocity Red Mica. Good lines, and the suicide doors prompt plenty of interest. Adults fit in the back comfortably if the front-seaters scoot up a bit. Plenty of head room. The rotary lacks impressive stoplight torque, but the ponies wind up quickly. It's a great passer - drop to 3rd, floor it, and you're blowing their doors off just before you slip back out of the oncoming traffic. The gas mileage is poor for a smaller car - I'm getting about 21 mpg when driving smoothly on the back roads at about 65 mph. I shudder to think how bad it would be if I frequently drove aggressively. Premium vs regular makes no difference.

DO NOT BUY!

Performance: 1 Comfort: 1 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 1 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 1 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

i bought the car 10 months ago. It has been in the shop for over 60 days total so far. It gets horrible gas mileage; I have never got better than 15 miles to the gallon. It burns through oil like crazy. mMy car has had 3 engines in 10 months! Mazda has replaced and paid for everything because there is a bigger problem with their engines that they don't want to get out, I'm smelling major RECALL! Not reliable at all, uncomfortable seats, very slow off the line. Do not buy this car, because if you have the same problems and try to pursue the lemon law like i am, Mazda will just ignore you and not return your phone calls, so do not buy this car!

Not made for long distance driving.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

It is a nice looking car. Not as comfortable as I would like but hey, it's a sport car not a family sedan. The bucket seats are not comfortable for long distance trips. It's kind of slow off the line but once it hits about 3500 rpm, this thing can go. Like many other people, I would like a bit more torque in this puppy. It is nice on the freeway, only if you're not living in LA. I am just wondering what is the top speed on an automatic? If you are looking for a fun car to drive and want to be different then everyone else, this may be the car for you.

RX8 6-speed can't handle the power

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

We have had an 05 RX8 with the 6-speed for 18 months. The rotary engine is much improved over the old one. My wife loves to drive it and we both like the styling. I enjoy hearing a motor rev about 7,000 rpms. We have had to replace the transmission, starter, and spark plugs. Too high maintenance for me.

awesome

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

This car is amazing. Fun to drive as long as you got the gas money.

The joy of balance

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

The true personality of this car can only be revealed when in manumatic mode on a twisting road using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Let the free wheeling engine wind up to 9000 RPM before changing gears and you begin to appreciate the true advantages of a rotary engine. Bought this car with 5000 miles on it - nicely loaded and comfortable to ride in. The 50/50 weight balance is a pure joy, no sudden spin outs - very predictable handling with solid braking and good feedback through the steering wheel. A very nicely put together package or design, utility, performance and fun.

Dangerous to test drive.

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my 2005 RX-8 about a week ago, switching from my Audi A4. I never intended to buy the car, but my girlfriend was buying a Mazda 3, and I figured I'd give the 8 a spin while I was at the dealership. Hands-down, it's the most fun car I've ever driven. It's light and agile, rockets you faster to 60 than an s2000, and has incredibly good looks. The rotary engine has a beautiful powerband (and sound), and the 9,000 rpm redline is unbelievable! The four-door functionality is definitely a deal-clincher, as it makes this beast actually practical. My only gripe is the mpg which seems like it should be higher for the size of the engine. But if mpg is what I wanted, I'd have bought a Civic.

Experiment in Beauty

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

As much as I love my 6-speed Shinka, I'd have to admit it's more an academic exercise in engineering and beauty, a "proof-of-concept" of the rotary engine, than a practical 21st century car. In this age of drying-up oil supplies and soaring fuel-cost, the gas-mileage on this work of art will "kill" you. I'm getting 14MPG no matter how careful I am, while my old, heavy, automatic '95 Nissan Pathfinder regularly gets 17MPG, go figure! Just driving normally ends up with 14mpg. I've only seen one owner-review that says he accomplishes the advertised 24/18, and I'd REALLY like to know how!

Great Car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

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!

Love My Rx8

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I have owned this car now for over six months. I have had only a couple of issues with it such as the center console, replaced once, seems very fragile. Also had a clip replace on the front spoiler. The car drives great very responsive with excellent steering. Not a powerhouse but by no means a weakling.

pretty darn good

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Great nicely fast and handles like a dream. A little idle shake but anything over 1000rpm it's silky smooth.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I absolutely love my RX-8. It is so fun to drive and get those RPMs up. Gas mileage isn't great and it is horrible in the snow, but it is worth it.

Fun Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I traded in a Maxima SE for this car because I wanted something fun to drive. The RX8 delivers in the fun department. Enough can't be said about the 50/50 weight distribution and the rotary power curve. It is not the most practical car, however, having low gas mileage and limited cargo space. As with any car in this category, consider that you may need a second car/truck to accompany this very fun vehicle.

2005 RX-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Did not think the tiny rotary engine would be so quick. On the test drive I noticed right away the car loves the road, sticks like glue at high speed.

Fun to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

The first time I got this on a winding road I couldn't stop grinning. Just amazing handling. The price/fun ratio can't be beat.

INCREDIBLE machine... RX-8 = FUN!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

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!

Perfect GT with sports car moves

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

All controls buttery smooth and all surfaces look and feel expensive. Still finding thoughtful touches after months of ownership. And the ride and handling ... smooth engine with flat torque curve betray pretty good acceleration. Sound is exquisite. When you decide to brake entering a turn, it is always too early. Ride is supple over bumps, but somehow sporty handling. No other car I have driven has a front end that feels so light when changing directions. Turn-in is immediate. Best of all, handling at limits very forgiving and comfortable (as can be possible). Easy to rotate at limit with throttle and brakes. 21 MPG same as previous 5-speed WRX, not as bad as others said in my experience?

High tech traditional sports car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A sports car. Rear wheel drive, light snick-snick gear box and a hunger for the twisties. And you get to check the oil, and warm it up before buzzing the engine, just like an old Triumph. Yet if you know how to look after a rotary, unlike an old Triumph this car is tediously reliable, at least it has been for me. The car has a slightly overdone exterior, but draw your own conclusions on the looks. Yet from a practical perspective the interior is like the Tardis (check with a British friend for the definition of Tardis) and very well finished. I wasn't going to buy a car like this, but one test drive had me hooked. I haven't looked back - buy this car!

Fun sports car for fairly mild $$

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

What a fun car to drive. Even makes going to the supermarket enjoyable. Very reliable, definitely sporty (but not brutally so) -- as a matter of fact, other people that have driven it or have ridden with me have all commented on its smoothness. It also has a surprising practical side -- you can carry quite a bit of stuff in it when necessary. I'm very happy with it.

Love it!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have owned this vehicle for the past few months and i love it! i have had two Madzas before this and this is the first rotary i have owned. I have read reviews of problems with this car and i can say that i have nothing happen to it, i drove to Florida and back from New Jersey. Oil consumption is NORMAL in a rotary because it used it in the combustion chamber, so it is burned off with the fuel! IT IS NORMAL TO ADD A QUART OF OIL EVERY 1500 MILES! GET USED TO IT!

Zooma Zoom Zoom

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my car in July and what a car! I feel great every time I get into my 8. It handles like no other car I've ever owned.The suicide seats are fabulous... I actually enjoy taking on the curves these days. I go out of my way to find "some curves" and just feel my 8 straighten them out. The only other side of the coin is gas mileage. But I can deal with it. Look out world, it"s me and my zooma zoom zoom.

Just a few things shy from perfection

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 3

Great car. Not impressed with the recall and the flooding problems. Needs a better place for the dipstick, you have to stick your hand down in the engine to get to it. I thought the interior would be more impressive ... my Dodge Neon was about the same when it came to the fanciness. A lot of people lean on that center console to get out because the car is so low, and because it slides open and it's on tracks, it often pops off of track. Maybe get a lift open one instead? The speedometer is a little difficult to read, maybe make it bigger. Gas mileage isn't impressive ... otherwise this car has been very good to me, *knock on wood.*

Mazda Speed Custom

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Other than premium fuel/20MPG average, this is a tight, agile, eye catching rocket that seats two like a glove. Lower torque on the low end is offset by electric motor-like acceleration at high rpms. No problems so far. I have the Mazda speed customization, plus stiffer suspension, custom exhaust and 19" 245/35/19 93Y tires.

Awesome Car!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Extremely fun to drive! Handling is impressive and corners like a race car while still maintaining a comfortable ride. Loves the higher RPMs and really kicks in at about 4,000 RPMs. I used to drive a 1988 RX7 which was a blast, but this car is a giant leap forward. My kids love it and can ride in the back seat.

Rattle Trap

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Have driven car approx. 2000 miles, vehicle has more squeaks and rattles than my son's '03 Hyundai, very poor quality. I have purchased 3 Mazdas since 12/04 and this one is terrible. Considered trading it back in after a month but would lose $10k after putting $15k down. Will not deal with Mazda or dealer who I have purchased my last 3 cars again. Have always had great luck with Mazda but not this time.

I love my 8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have been looking at the Mazda for the last couple of years. Along with the WRX STi, S2000, 350Z, and Audi TT. I couldn't fit into the TT, so I ended up with the Mazda because of the performance along with the fact that I can live with the car everyday (ruled out 350Z and S2000). I love the way it looks and drives. It is a car that I look forward to getting into and driving to work every day. The rotary is so much fun that I find myself reving it high just to hear it. I do wish it had a bit more low end power though. As far as people complaining about the snow, it is a powerful rear-wheel drive car! What do you expect?

NOT good

Performance: 1 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 3 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 1 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I owned this car for 26 days when, like many of the reviews I am now reading say, it stopped cold. Not only was I uninformed about the fact that this can happen secondary to "flooding", I was not told of a safety recall at the time of purchase. 6 days later I am still waiting to get my car back from the shop. My last car I had for 12 years without a problem, this one for less than one month and it breaks down and leaves me stranded. VERY frustrating. It also does not drive very fast (the automatic). At times when I'm merging on the freeway, I feel like I'm driving a big boat. I much prefer the Toyota Corolla I now have as a rental car!

Great Bang for the Buck

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 4

Went to buy an '05 Miata (great deals - $5K to $6K off of MSRP) for me and my wife as an extra car. Wife was dead set against any of the two seaters without side airbags (which left out the Miata and S2000 - my other choice). I hadn't even thought of the RX8, but she like the look so we test drove it. Loved the ride & the practicality of the back seat. Also really liked the Black Cherry/Tan leather combo of the Shinka (in SoCal, tan interior makes more sense). Dealer had one with no add ons (exactly what I wanted) and sold it for under invoice. Great bang for the buck. A buddy bought a Porsche 911 S. Yes its cooler, faster & more exciting -- but it's close to $100K and back seats are useless.

great car - IF IT STARTS!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 1

Warning: if you are thinking of buying this car be warned: it will not restart if it is turned off cold. This is a widespread problem, and Mazda is fully aware but refuses to do anything about it (it is a problem with the rotary in that to start the engine needs a burst of gas, and until it's burned off, e.g.: warmed up, the car WILL NOT RESTART and must be towed). Otherwise: a great car. Fast. Great handling. Wonderful design. But very bad gas mileage! But I could live with that, IF I COULD BE ASSURED THE CAR WOULD START. It's already left me stranded once, and Mazda will only pay to fix it once, and then you're on your own. Shame on Mazda

A $30,000 Porsche

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fantastic car. The people who say that the ergonomics are iffy, don't know what the word ergonomics means. Best controls I've ever had on any car I've ever driven.

ROADSTER WITH A BACKSEAT

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought this car yesterday after shopping numerous other coupes/sport coupes and sedans. I compared it to Mustang, Mazda6, Nissan Altima and Maxima, Infinity G-35, and a couple others. I bought the black touring with rear spoiler and all season mats. Sticker $30,600. I paid $26,000 with my trade. A 1994 ford Taurus, probably worth $500. Great deal! What a cool look, car drives like a sports car, has a backseat big enough for my 4 & 11 year old, and rear doors that are easy enough for a small adult/child. The interior is not so luxurious like a loaded Maxima or G35. Not even the GT w/added leather looked that great. I didn't think the leather was worth $1500. Overall a really cool car.

Nice car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

More than adequate acceleration with great handling characteristics. Like the style and design in silver -- looks like the sports machine it is. Have had no mechanical problems to date although just got a recall notice about possible engine cooling problem. Did run the car hard during our peak hot week -- temps mid-90's for 600 miles with little stopping along the way and everything worked fine; comfortable ride with no excessive heating indications. Lots of inquiries about "what's that?" with lots of positive comments about the car's design. Gasoline consumption depends on how you drive it. Did check on one throughway trip at average speed of 70 and got almost 24mpg. Less when playing in city.

Zoom-Zoom

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've been very satisfied with my RX-8, even after the first few weeks of road fever were gone. It's still hard not to drive it as a go-kart, for it is so stable and fun to drive that you will find yourself revving it up just to hear the jet-engine noise. The 6 speed transmission is great, and you will learn soon to skip gears when driving with the traffic flow and keeping the revs under 3500. A common issue pointed in the reviews is the low gas mileage. To me it is fine. This car performs as a 6 cylinder, and uses about the same amount of gas. During normal driving I get 20+ mpg in mixed use, and 24 on the highway. Can you how me a 6 cylinder sport car that can do better?

Awesome 4 Seat Sports Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive with phenomenal handling, good acceleration, comfortable ride along with head turning exterior appeal makes this car a true winner. Interior cockpit seating for 4. Stability control with traction control. Standard front air bags along with side air bags and side curtain air bags front and rear. Rotary engine sound. Car insurance same as a 4-door sedan. Zoom- Zoom! The interior is comfortable and the cockpit seating is a plus. The kids love the car and there is room for all four of us. The trunk storage space is limited, but fine for this type of car. Gas mileage is good for a sports car. I'm getting at 20+ mpg city/highway driving, 24 mpg highway running at 70 mph.

Regrets -- I have a few.

Performance: 3 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 2 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 1

I have a 2004 RX-8 & it's the worst car I've ever had. I had an RX-7 for years & loved it; sadly the RX-8 does not come close for several reasons. The car has broken down (and been towed) 5 times in the last few months - the car floods itself! This past week the car began to shake violently - the end result being it needed new left and right motor mounts installed. The heat did not work this winter and 3 months later I'm still waiting for a back-ordered part! The only saving grace not having heat was that I couldn't use the car in the first place because the slightest dusting of snow on the ground renders the car inoperable. Long story short, it's fun to drive but TOTALLY unreliable.

Duane's RX8

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Fun to drive, the car handles the road nicely. My last car was a 5 series BMW and I thought it handled extremely well, but Mazda did not let me down one bit. It holds the road tight, but is still quite comfortable. Had a few parts fall off of it in the first couple days, so I am not highly impressed with the quality, but the issues were minor. I drove a couple business clients back to their hotel and one was a very large man (I put him in the passenger front, and the other average sized gentleman rode comfortably in the back seat behind me. The back seat really is usable by adults and certainly by children. I wish the 20 mpg in mostly highway driving was better.

Love it, love it, love it!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Everything I would have expected out of a true sports car design...you know, old school (Sunbeam Tiger, Spitfire, Austin Healy to name a few). Agility, handling, feel of the road, top notch. Better than expected cabin noise, and I appreciate the automatic volume level adjustment in the stock stereo system. 18" wheels and limited-slip differential in the standard manual package is a bonus!

ultimate sports car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

i love the car. it very fun to drive. the fuel efficiency is bad for a 1.3 but it is a sports car and the horses and being able to turn 9 grand make up for it.constantly checking the oil gets kind of annoying after a while

Mazda rx-8

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

Performance--lacks low end torque, (Mazda claims 0-60 in 5.9 seconds which is B.S.) 0- to 60 in mid to high 6's. Car still is qicker than most, and it is a blast to drive. Handling is amazing , braking is exceptional. I love the instrument panel. Get used to the high revving engine - and you will enjoy.

RX-8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

A beautifully executed design. It looks like no other car on the road. Its handling and engine note border on the exotic at the price of a well equiped Camry. Very competent as a daily driver with the comfortable cabin and nifty rear "suicide" doors. Cross shopped several cars (G35, 350Z, Magnum R/T). Interior build quality head and shoulders above 350Z and Magnum, better than G35. Not quite Audi, but very good. Love the invisible features like aluminum body panels (they sing when you rinse it off), 50/50 weight distribution, etc. Great price too.

Fun car, but scared of snow flakes

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

Great ride. A little slow off the line but rips above 5000 RPM's. Handling is amazing. The brakes are less than high-performance--very squeeky. (I've gone through 2 sets of rotors with only 26k). As far as snow goes, this thing starts slipping and sliding about 2 secs after the first flake hits the ground---garage it.

I love this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is exceptionally engineered, from the engine, to the handling performance, all all the way down to the little japanese gadget goodies you find after you drive it off the lot. I have all sport packages including GT, and when I get a new air filter and high flow intake filter case, I should get the gas mileage I need to make this a bit more economical. Without shifting past the engine cutoff (AT at 7500), 1st gear hits about 60mph, 2nd hits 88mph, and 3rd is around 108mp. Not bad for an AT.

Get some ROOM-ROOM with your ZOOM-ZOOM!!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Researched and test drove several cars before deciding on the 8. GTO, Mustang, A3, G35's, 3 series, S2000, TSX, Tc, etc. None had a better combination of performance, handling, value, room, and looks than the 8. Good power, excellent handling, exceptional 6 sp trans., great brakes, wonderful steering, all make for a perfect 10 in "fun to drive". Gas mileage is below average..but, you knew that. :) Exterior styling is sharp and full of "character" and car is exclusive (not easy in SoCal). Interior is comfortable and well thought out with very good materials. Roomy back seat with good access. Trunk space is generous for a sports car, but the opening is a bit small. Overall, this 8 is The One.

Best Car Yet?!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Mazda Rx-8, a simple way of saying "everything I've wanted and more". Before the Rx-8 I drove a Mercedes S500, Honda S200, Lumina SS, Mustang, and the Bmw 330ci. None of these cars but the Rx-8 gave me complete satisfaction when it came to driving, comfort, and (my favourite) style. When on the road you may not be the biggest car, the most powerful, or even the most "bling" or done up, yet once you've driven by these other cars have felt a sense of defeat, a sense of "must bow to the prophecy of the Rotary Engine" (LOL) . Basically I love it, you'll love it.

Help the owners of these cars

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 2 Interior Design: 2 Exterior Design: 2 Build Quality: 1 Reliability: 1 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 2 Reliability Rating: 1

I had the 2004 rx8 car broke down every month. Had to have a new motor at 12000 miles, got started vibrating shaking so bad and then it would knock off. I hated to drive the car i was so afraid it would leave me stranded somewhere. Then it got to the point it would flooded itself i was so discussed with this car. Had to get an attorney. Mazda finally bought the car back it was a lemon. Cute car but worse car i ever had.

Best of the bunch

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Considered RX8, 350Z, and Infiniti G35 coupe. Overall value with regards to performance with price led to RX8 purchase. The true joy in driving this car is not captured if you are after straightline speed. This car is flawless in handling and shifting. Exterior design sets it apart from any other vehicle on the road. It receives doubletakes from all age groups. Knowing I was in the market for a performance vehicle, not a compact fuel economy car, I have no problems with the gas mileage (compare apples to apples and you should agree). You MUST take advantage of Redlining RPM's the rotary engine allows to have ultimate fun and feel the Mazda zoom zoom!

practical sports car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned M3,Z3,MR2,WRX,911,RX7 and several British sports cars. The Rx8 betters them all in some ways and betters some of them in every way. Who needs more power? Perfect compromise between ride and handling and it looks fantastic. I test drove all of the current sports car competition and there really was none - unless you must have a top that drops.

Great littlesports car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This is a great car:looks good, drives and handles very well. Takes me back to the days of the Britsh Sports cars like Tr-3, MG, etc. Mileage is disappointing but who buys a sports car for the mileage! Comfortable on long trips. For crowded Southern California Freeways and other stop-and-go driving the automatic transmission is a blessing.

2005 Mazda RX8 Shinka

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I bought my '05 Mazda RX8 Shinka April 11, 2005 after selling my 2001 SVT Mustang Cobra in March. The Shinka does not have enough torque like the Cobra did but holds the road substantially better than the Cobra. Its an all around fun car & I would recommend it to all age groups.

RX 8

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Enjoy the car as I am also the owner of the 1st RX 7 number l503 and noted several upgraded features in the new model ex power steering, power windows and seat etc. concern about the poor gas mileage and the lack of a real spare tire.

Phenomenal Handling - Sport Room for 4

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I have a Velocity Red, Auto w/ Sports pkg., own just over 1 week. During this time I have driven over 650 miles. This included a weekend trip to the beach. The ride is fantastic; acceleration good, comfortable and a responsive ride that is phenomenal. Zoom-Zoom! Head turning to say the least. The interior is comfortable and the cockpit seating is a plus. The kids love the car and there is room for all four of us. Storage space is fine for this type of car. Standard front air bags, side curtain air bags, along w/ side air bags for the front seats. ABS braking and with the sport package added stability control w/ traction control. State Farm considers it a 4 door sedan for insurance purpose.

mazda rx-8,

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

great to look at, drives very well, major problem is very poor gas milage, less than 12 mph in city, 18 highway (at best)

silver bullet

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I love this car. Its rough with the gas but hey I dont care. Its soooo fun. It drives so smooth and looks sexy. A head turner. I dont mind paying a note for this. I have the automatic not as potent as the 6 six speed but im not complaining

interesting

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 1 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 3

This must have been one of the first rx-8 produced! I've had electrical problems, sunroof problems and hard starting concerns. All of course fixed, but the car has been tied up in the shop for at least 10 days!

Best of all worlds

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is a pleasure to drive: very responsive and agile, but also comfortable. Fit and finish are excellent, especially for a $30,000 car. The backseat easily accomodates medium-size adults or a car seat or booster seat. My kids (2 1/2 and 5) love riding in it. I also drove the Volvo V40 and was disappointed by the quality of the interior finish as well as the power. I also considered the Audi A4 and the BMW 3-series, but they get really expensive when you load them up with options. With the RX-8 you can get all the options and a thrilling ride at a reasonable price, and also stand out in the crowd.

Turning Heads

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Amazing. Took a while, but I finally tracked down a Titanium Grey with Red/Black interior. As far as I know, this was the only one for sale in Texas at the time. Means I get a unique vehicle. Have had many comment on how sharp it looks. Living in the Hill Country (Windy roads up and down hills is the norm), I truly believe this car was built just for my area. You have read it all, performance, comfort, everything. I can't think of a single thing I don't like. Well, here is my biggest complaint. Would be nice if the 6 disk CD changer played random accross all disks, not just 1. So there you have it. :-).

Great RX-8!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I wanted an RX-8 since I first saw it at the auto show. I finally got my RX-8 last December. This car is great and soooo much fun to drive. I get about 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. My only big complaint is with the 18" Bridgestone tires. I only have 11K miles on the car, but they are already worn uneven due to how soft they are. It looks like I'll have to replace them soon. Otherwise, the car is excellent and I'd highly recommend it to anyone looking to get a little zoom, zoom, zoom!

love this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 2 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

this is a great handling car, fun to drive, gas mileage isn't all that good, but you do have fun driving the RX8

Flashy Fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

The RX8 is an awesome looking, head turning sports car. It is extremly fun to drive and handles great. The four doors, back seat, and roomy trunk also make it very convenient to take along an extra passenger or two! The manual transmission is a definite must. It shifts very easily and is actually a very quiet ride inside. The exterior styling and Royal Blue paint finish is very eye-catching. The ability to change the dash lights from white to Red is also a plus. Great car!

Best RX Yet

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I've owned two earlier editions of the RX7. The RX8 has to win the title of the "Most Fun to Drive." There is no car I've driven at less than twice the price that's so agile. It's like a four wheeled motorcycle. Somehow Mazda developed a suspension that is comfortable for cruising yet delivers real "seat of the pants" handling and road feel. It's like nothing else on the road. Only negatives: surprisingly poor gas mileage and trunk which is really an auxilliary glove compartment. (Throw your luggage in the back seat.)

Best in class

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

After researching G35 coupe, and 350Z, I chose the RX8. Functional for my family of 4, but sporty. By far the best value for the money in the group. I rated the gas mileage an 8 because compared to other cars with similar performance it still gets good gas mileage. It is unfair to give it poor marks by comparing it to a compact car's gas mileage. This car is fun to drive but you really need to get the upper end of the rpm's to attain a level of satisfaction. If 0 to 60 is what you are looking for, then this is not the car for you. It is a true great sports car when taking into account the incredible and I mean incredible handling and feel. The manual trans. is a pleasure to drive.

RX8 Rocks