as I drove up to the dealership, bam, there it was, a shiny new Winning Blue RX-8 sitting right in front of the building. It has just been prepped and the owner was signing the papers inside.
You have heard all the talk about the car look better in person than in pictures, well, they are 200% correct. I think it's how the light flows and reflects off of the car's body that sets it off. Still pictures can't capture the fluid movements of the reflections as you walk around the car.
all 5 cars that have arrived at Brown's are pre-orders, and their 2nd batch won't arrive until mid-August.
but yeah, bottom line is, unless some other car company comes out with another rotary-powered car, I should own one of these babies soon...
I think I speak on behalf of all of us 'lude owners here in saying that we look forward to your comparative review against the RX-8! The new Mazda is the closest thing to the Prelude that I have seen...
I did get to drive one yesterday. There was actually a small line of people waiting, at 2:00 on a Wednesday. My local dealer (2 stores) has 2 in that they are reserving for test drives (one at each location), both 6 speed GTs.
Got to drive a black one. Not my favorite color, but looked nice. Certainly is a sharp looking car, and it actually looks smaller when you are next to it.
As to the important part, there was lots of zoom. With about 500 lbs. of passengers, and the AC on, it took off like a shot. The reported lack of torque was a non issue, as it revs so quick. Sweet sound also, and you really have to look at the tach to see how fast it is turning. Really pulls hard in 3rd gear at about 4K. Superb steering, and the brakes felt good. Shifter was very snick-snick (almost Miata like, with a little more heft).
Plenty of room up front, and I often have problems with headroom (I seem to have a long torso relative to my 6" height). Not here. I also fit OK in the back, even sitting behind myself. If you can pull the seat up a bit, plenty of leg and knee room. A little bit of contortion required to get into the back, but much easier than any 2 door. And much comfier once you are in, but the view is a little constricted.
Overall, this is a sports car if you never look behind you. And if they take 8 inchs, 300 lbs, and the back seat out, it will be one hell of an RX-7.
There actually were a few drawbacks, enough to probably make me hold off (the practical considerations).
With 2 kids that I transport daily, I'm a little concerned with the hatch doors getting abused, and having them be able to get in/out easliy. I would also cry when they drag the orange clay from the baseball/softball fields into the car.
The trunk is pretty small, probably too small for traveling with a family of 4 (especially the way my wife packs).
No spare tire, and given the conditions of the roads around here (NJ), and the skinny side wall on the 45 series tires, a can of fix a flat and an air pump aren't too encouraging.
There is an optional spare tire, but it hangs from the top of the trunk shelf. I didn't see it, but it must render the trunk almost useless.
Back to NJ, the insurance quote might make me pass out, but hey, it's only money.
Bottom line, a perfect car for a person that loves sports car driving, and either has enough money for an expensive toy, or that mostly is driving solo or 1 passenger, but still wants the ability to carry 2 extras.
Overall, I think Mazda has a winner. I may end up with a G35 6-speed or a TSX instead (unless I just keep my paid off Maxima SE), but this would be a hell of a mid-life crisis car when the kids grow up.
Well, having cracked forty, I don't think I still qualify as young, and having been married fro quite a while, the only way to qualify as single will cost too much to afford the car.
So, left with the old MLC option.
seriously though, this would be a great choice for a DINK that want's something upscale from an RSX class car, without getting a "family" car.
Local dealer had 3. Black ,red and silver. The red is very sharp when the sun hits it. Two tone seats are nice too. I did start it, but didn't drive it. Very smooth sounds.
I've been on my local dealer's waiting list for about 7 months. Well, I got the call yesterday that they had one for me to look at. Unfortunately it was red and I wanted titanium. I was surprised when they said I could test drive the red one, anyway.
Having driven the 8's chief competition, the 350Z, the RX8 is the real deal. Usually, these cars have little in the way of torque, but because the car is so light, this doesn't hinder the car at all. As a matter of fact, this car is very easy to drive in stop and go traffic.
I was pleasantly surprised who well the car rode considering the last rotary I drove beat you to death over even slight rode imprefections.
Even though it does have a back seat, I cerainly wouldn't want to sit back there, even if I was a child's size.
I hadn't heard the rotary engine sound in a long time....music to my ears.
Personally, I would prefer the RX8 over the 350Z based on the layout of the interior alone.
Unfortunately, they won't have a titanium one coming in until late next month. Some people have bought them without driving it or seeing it in-person. As I told the Mazda sales manager, I wouldn't do that. He said he understood, but wouldn't disuade anyone who wanted to plunk down a $1,000 non-refunadable security deposit. That's the only way to be certain to get the car you wanted. That means that if the color isn't exactly what you thought it would be or for some reason you didn't like the car or that there was a mistake made on the car's manifest regarding equipment levels, you still either have to buy the car or forfit your $1,000.
Based on that fact alone, I doubt I'll have an RX8 in my driveway anytime in the near future.
All that said, the new RX8 is stunning and would be a better buy than either an S2000 or a 350Z.
Seen one in Jersey(black one) on Route 22 in NJ the other day. It looked pretty slick. The thing is its rear wheel drive. If it was AWD count me in for a purchase in a couple years. Can't deal with RWD in Jersey. That looked like my dream car though. I guess I'll be keeping my Acura CL for a long time.
Does the stock or Bose system play MP3 CDs or is there an AUX input so you can use a portable MP3 player without resorting to an FM modulator or going through a cassette adapter?
There are two RX-8's sitting at Classic Mazda on SR 436. One black, sold. Another red, available. Both seems fully kitted out W/ Navi. They are asking for 38K (5K MARKET ADJUSTMENT). But the sales dude said he will take MSRP, 33K.
Sweet ride, and the interior quality looks good from what I could see, didn't get to sit in.
Local dealer sold the titanium right after I test drove it. I wanted to get an idea what tehy were selling for. So, I stopped at the dealership again, yesterday. Sales Manager said he had 50 on order for the rest of the year. He sad he doubted he'd get all 50, but wasn't marking them up. "Just" charging MSRP.
I think I'm talking myself into this car, as they let me drive the demonstrator again, yesterday. This time they let me drive it for about a 1/2 hour through some back roads and on the interstate. This car is really sweet. High quality throughout and tight as a drum.
I would think that winter driving wouldn't be an issue given it has some sort of all speed traction control and anti-lock.
it looks like Mazda did its homework for this car to be successful for them. I have had rear wheel drive once and I just can't deal with it. Another thing is 33k-38K? I thought this car was priced at 26K not in the 30's at all. Price aside its one of the best looking cars I have ever seen. I am a big fan of the mid to late 80's RX-7 and as I matter of fact I saw 2 mid to late 80's RX-7 in a span of 1 minute today in Northern Jersey.
I've actually seen two RX8s with their MSRP attached. One was ~$28K. The other, with every available option except automatic transmission was ~$32K.
I think it depends on what you want. They come very well equipped even with no options and well under $30K....about the same price as a totally loaded Accord.
There is one at my local mazda dealer in Freehold. A titanium one with navigation and sport package. $30K ($27,200 base, plus $2K nav, and $1100 sport). So my wife let me stop in. They said it was available. First off, this is a beautiful car. Only thing I didn't notice in the pics and now saw in person and wasn't too thrilled with was the black mesh in the vents behind the front wheels. I guess I thought it was just a slit the faced rearward. I'm not really fond of the mesh just because it got me thinking of what kind of junk will get caught in there and that it really didn't look all that good. But, overall, like I said, its a beautiful car.
The salesman was talking to another looker, so I just kinda snuk up and got in the driver's seat. I JUST fit in the car. I mean, I put that seat all the way back and tilted it to where I could actually see out the windshield and that left the steering wheel just in arms reach. So I thought this MIGHT be ok. Then I closed the door. Yikes! I was kind of expecting more breathing room and better visibility out of a 4-seater. I know its a sporting car, but even my Alfa Spider with the top up offers me a better view. And what were they thinking with the armrest on the door? The armrest is down at thigh height and the window sill is way up at shoulder height.
So I didn't stick around to see about a test drive. I'm sure I would have loved the road manners based on what others have described, but my lack of comfort rules it out for me since it would be my daily commuter. I'm disappointed. I've always wanted an RX and thought this would be my chance.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I spent close to an hour studying the car insinde & out while waiting for my salesperson to finish a delivery. Paint, fit and finish are flawless. It neither looks nor feels like a $26K car. I had some concern about what had looked to be a high beltline, but outward visibility was as good as my Prelude, except to the rear which is somewhat compromised by the short backlight. The exterior mirror placement is perfect.
The rear seat works and is actually comfy, but the headrests could be taller.
Ergonomically, I could find no faults. The seats are comfy, controls are well-placed and provide good tactile feedback. The full-length center console is attractive and very effective. The only quibbles I could find with the interior are the peculiar mesh sun visors and the transmission hump that protrudes slightly into the front-seat passenger's footwell -- my wife had to sit with her left leg slightly askew or with her knee bent, finding neither position ideally comfortable.
The trunk is small, but offers nothing other than useful space once you clear the high liftover. There is a noise/temperature insulation blanket on the underside of the trunklid.
Upon startup, the RENESIS has a great warble, which caused my wife & I to smile. I initially wished for a seat-height adjustment, but once underway found the pedal-wheel-seat relationship to be perfect.
Clutch takeup seemed to be a bit abrupt, with a friction point very low in the pedal stroke. Being a hot day, I really wanted to see how the engine handled three people on board with the A/C blasting while puttering around on surface streets. Throttle respone remained very linear, and the engine refused to lug, even when I floored the gas at 35mph in 4th gear. This is a very flexible powerplant, not unlike a DC motor -- the more you put in, the more you get out.
Once on the highway, I cracked the whip. I was surprised to discover that I couldn't catch the engine off-stride with wild throttle modulations -- underway, the car feels like it has a large flywheel, but the rate at which it revs says otherwise. The only place I could detect any vibration at 8000rpm+ was through the shifter, but it wasn't unwelcome.
I attacked a familiar cloverleaf at the intersection of two interstates. I was able to carry 10-15mph higher cornering speeds than I can with my Prelude. The RX-8 drifts beautifully, and you feel as though you can turn the car within its own length. Want to change your line in mid-corner? The RX-8 will do it. The DSC did cut some power when I became over-enthusiastic after passing one apex, but it did not unsettle the car in any way.
I decided to switch the DSC off and do all four on/off ramps again. Perfect four-wheel drifts are only a roll of the throttle and a slow unwinding of the wheel away. The steering and handling are perfect. There is a hint of body roll upon corner entry, but the shocks stiffen immediately and let you carve away. The steering is best described as telepathic. The salesman remarked about this being the most fun he's ever had on a test drive.
The brakes are very quick and progressive.
I did notice a tendency to run into the backside of 1st gear when performing a fast 1-2 shift, possibly as a result of the afforementioned clutch takeup, or as an emissions control measure. By the end of the drive I was already used to it, but when performing a shift high in the rev band, it did feel like the engine was holding on to revs a bit.
While the motor is a marvel, it does not impart the same go-for-broke feeling of a DOHC VTEC mill. The response is so spookily linear and smooth that I found myself missing a frenzied rush to redline. The RENESIS builds revs at a quick but but steady pace, unlike a DOHC VTEC which pulls harder as it revs higher and offers an obvious "zing" at the redline. The RENESIS has plenty of power and revs, but didn't give me the top-end rush I was expecting -- it's almost too refined and quiet.
Overall, the RX-8 is an A+, but I won't be replacing my Prelude with one, and here's why: -- If my Prelude is a "10", then the RX-8 is a "12", but unless your commute consistes entirely of decreasing-radius curves, you might not mind the fact that the Prelude offers 90% of what the RX-8 does. In other words, the RX-8 doesn't offer ME enough of a difference over my Prelude to make it worth the investment. -- Geography. In an area where we consider 150" of snow in a winter to be getting off lightly, RWD is a difficult sell for me. I look at the WRX wagon and see comparable performance, but the added benefits of AWD and utility. I am well aware of the dynamic limitations of AWD, but the safety net that it provides on slick roads is an acceptable tradeoff for me.
For those who can live with RWD year round, I can't imagine needing or finding a better balance of comfort, performance and practicality than the RX-8. Bravo, Mazda! You've really pulled it off.
As it revs, the engine goes "huuuummmmmmmmmMMMMMMM!" It doesn't get very loud, just a bit more insistant.
As previously mentioned, I was expecting more ferocity at the top end. Given the good torque spread and lack of aural payoff, there isn't much reason to rev it beyond 5,000rpm.
Tough to put into words what the engine sounds like, but I'll give it a whirl.
Up until this point, I considered BMW straight 6s, Porsche rear mounted 6s and Ford/Chevy small block V8s to be the standard bearers for sweet sounding engines.
I'll go out on a limb and say that the RENESIS is now the best sounding engine I've heard. It's turbine like through the rev range until you hit about 7K RPMs where it turns into a very precise mechanical "whirrrlllll"....not buzzy, nor busy, but it sounds like a very precision type winding "HUMMMMMMMM" (as himiler points out). I got the impression of a piece of very tight build techniques/engineering because it revs so high and with no audible strain that I noticed.
I'm sure I'll be able to "dial in" the engine sound to shift before redline once I drive it every day, but the 3 test drives I did had me hitting the rev limiter since there is no strain, at all as you wind it out. The torque delivery is so linear and power delivery so smooth, you really have to use the tach to see where you are in the rev range. It feels like it can rev forever.
I've heard many mentions about how the RX8 will do in the snow.
I had that same question myself. I learned to drive bir RWD V8 cars with pitiful tires by today's standards. So, I don't think the RX8 will be much of a challenge. We don't get much snow most winters in the Ohio Valley anyway (but when it does snow, it snows a bunch).
Having driven RWD cars with trac control in more recent winters, I'm amazed at how well they do in snow....many times better than FWD cars.
No matter, if it does become an issue I'll be ordering some BLIZZAKS from the TIRE RACK.
Should we be expecting your dealership's license plate frame/sticker in CR? Would be good business for those that read it and recognize your dealership $$$
I was looking at the 6s for some time now, but refrained from pulling the trigger until I saw the RX-8. I saw the RX-8. My God, what a sight. And in all colors: red, yellow, blue, silver, black. No titanium or green. They (Oak Tree Mazda in San Jose) had a yellow, a blue, and a black siting in the showroom. I was talking pricing with the sales guy. Mentioned I objected to the Dealer Markup ($5000). He immediately dropped it to $1500, but later, his manager seemed to be willing to take it off completely, so it's MSRP! They said all the cars are available to drive off today! No need to reserve, and oh, no $1000 non-deductible like someone else mentioned earlier here. Bottom line: Lightning Yellow 6speed, Grand Touring Package, $31,100. I figured that out-the-door would be $34,200. With 10% down, and financing the rest at 4% for 5 years (credit union), I am looking at a total cost of $37,440.
Now, I can get a comparable 6s (leather, comfort, AT, Bose, Moonroof, ULEV, Appearance) at $26,055 MSRP for approx. $24,000 (little over invoice). Less the $1,250 loyalty rebate and with the 0% financing, my cost would be $27,800. or a difference of $10 grand!
What do you think? Is the 8 worth $10 grand over the 6? Let me know!
While the 6 is a fine practical car in its own right (I'd prefer it over a Camry or an Accord), the RX8 is a sports car that happens to have a bit of practicality thrown in with a comfy back seat and rear doors. Best thing to do is to drive both and tell us whether you think it's worth another $10K. My bet is you will.
That first run through the gears and the sound of the engine urging you towards the redline is intoxicating.
I've heard that after driving, RX8 has to be left idling for up to 15 minutes before shutting it off. Not doing so for three or four times will cause engine not to start anymore and it will require service. Supposedly there is a warning in user's manual. Can anyone confirm that?
No prolonged periods of full throttle acceleration, no hard braking, no fast starts, stay away from the redline warning tone for the first 500 miles or so.
The car I tested already had 391 miles on it, and the salesman didn't tell me not to beat-spin it.
in the dealer manual, basically they said for short drives (like moving car across the lot, or drive your car out to driveway for a wash), once you stopped, let the engine idle for a few minutes (5 I think) before turning the engine off.
I think it's preventive measure to ensure the metal plates inside the rotor housing and the rotors warm up and expand fully before shutting down, so the seals don't get stressed out.
Bought my Red 6 speed/Red & Black Leather/GT package last night. The car's still at the dealership, but I do have the manuals with me.
Regular maintenance (Schedule I) calls for oil changes at 6 months or 7,500 miles. Clean Air Filter and inspect brakes at 12 months/15K miles. 30K miles service suggests inspecting the drive belt, fuel lines, hoses, and connections, cooling system, etc. Air Conditioning filter replaced every 25K miles or 24 months.
Schedule II (short distance trips, heavy wear, dusty or salty roads, etc.) suggests 4 months or 5K mile oil changes, and the rest of the schedule appears close to the above.
I have the red & black leather, as well. Looks really sharp.
The owner's manual says 5W 20 with quality designation SL or ILSAC. Doesn't speak to synthetic in my quick scan.
Also, something I hadn't noticed until reading the manual, is that this car doesn't have a spare tire, but comes with an "emergency flat tire repair kit". A temp spare is available as a dealer installed accessory, but that takes up a good bit of trunk space. Probably a good idea to keep their roadside assistance number handy.
I can't even remember the last time I had a flat tire....maybe 25 years ago? I figure the "fix-a-flat" gunk would get me to the nearest tire place if I ever had another one. Besides, since they are providing emergency roadside assistance during warranty, I'll just call the to "flat bed" the car to a tire place if it ever happens.
I guess I'll forget about synth oil then. My dealer offers "no-charge" oil changes for as long as I own the car, so I'll make sure to have them follow manufacturer's designation.
....but I'm here to announce the new Mazda RX-8 Owners club now available on Edmunds.com Owners Club board. Please stop by and introduce yourself in Meet the Members and let me know how I can help build your club.
I have linked this discussion into that folder, but it will always reside here in CC&SC.
Mazda Sportscar Club of Washington (www.mscw.com) is holding its monthly club meeting TODAY at Fuddrucker's behind Rosenthal Nissan Mazda at Tysons Corner. There will DEFINITELY be a couple new RX-8s with their new owners there, along with the usual blend of Miatas and RX-7s.
If you haven't gotten a chance to see one, or you would like to meet the RX-8 owners, stop by!
People will be gathering at the parking lot around 6:30, and the meeting will be inside Fuddruckers at 7:30
Comments
as I drove up to the dealership, bam, there it was, a shiny new Winning Blue RX-8 sitting right in front of the building. It has just been prepped and the owner was signing the papers inside.
You have heard all the talk about the car look better in person than in pictures, well, they are 200% correct. I think it's how the light flows and reflects off of the car's body that sets it off. Still pictures can't capture the fluid movements of the reflections as you walk around the car.
all 5 cars that have arrived at Brown's are pre-orders, and their 2nd batch won't arrive until mid-August.
but yeah, bottom line is, unless some other car company comes out with another rotary-powered car, I should own one of these babies soon...
I'm surprised they let you test drive one - apprently most are alreay sold and new owners don't want anyone else to test druive their baby...
How's the engine sound? Is the steering weighted? What about zoom-zoom (acceleration) and "mooz-mooz" (eh.. braking I mean)?
Dinu
they are all pre-orders, and all were off-limits for test drives :-(
I did get to hear the car idle as the owner of the said blue RX-8 comes out to test the car.
sounds like a rotary! :-D
too bad he didn't rev it :-D
Got to drive a black one. Not my favorite color, but looked nice. Certainly is a sharp looking car, and it actually looks smaller when you are next to it.
As to the important part, there was lots of zoom. With about 500 lbs. of passengers, and the AC on, it took off like a shot. The reported lack of torque was a non issue, as it revs so quick. Sweet sound also, and you really have to look at the tach to see how fast it is turning. Really pulls hard in 3rd gear at about 4K. Superb steering, and the brakes felt good. Shifter was very snick-snick (almost Miata like, with a little more heft).
Plenty of room up front, and I often have problems with headroom (I seem to have a long torso relative to my 6" height). Not here. I also fit OK in the back, even sitting behind myself. If you can pull the seat up a bit, plenty of leg and knee room. A little bit of contortion required to get into the back, but much easier than any 2 door. And much comfier once you are in, but the view is a little constricted.
Overall, this is a sports car if you never look behind you. And if they take 8 inchs, 300 lbs, and the back seat out, it will be one hell of an RX-7.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
With 2 kids that I transport daily, I'm a little concerned with the hatch doors getting abused, and having them be able to get in/out easliy. I would also cry when they drag the orange clay from the baseball/softball fields into the car.
The trunk is pretty small, probably too small for traveling with a family of 4 (especially the way my wife packs).
No spare tire, and given the conditions of the roads around here (NJ), and the skinny side wall on the 45 series tires, a can of fix a flat and an air pump aren't too encouraging.
There is an optional spare tire, but it hangs from the top of the trunk shelf. I didn't see it, but it must render the trunk almost useless.
Back to NJ, the insurance quote might make me pass out, but hey, it's only money.
Bottom line, a perfect car for a person that loves sports car driving, and either has enough money for an expensive toy, or that mostly is driving solo or 1 passenger, but still wants the ability to carry 2 extras.
Overall, I think Mazda has a winner. I may end up with a G35 6-speed or a TSX instead (unless I just keep my paid off Maxima SE), but this would be a hell of a mid-life crisis car when the kids grow up.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
It is true, nothing revs like a rotory. It made my BILs S2000 seem thrashy.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
So, left with the old MLC option.
seriously though, this would be a great choice for a DINK that want's something upscale from an RSX class car, without getting a "family" car.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Having driven the 8's chief competition, the 350Z, the RX8 is the real deal. Usually, these cars have little in the way of torque, but because the car is so light, this doesn't hinder the car at all. As a matter of fact, this car is very easy to drive in stop and go traffic.
I was pleasantly surprised who well the car rode considering the last rotary I drove beat you to death over even slight rode imprefections.
Even though it does have a back seat, I cerainly wouldn't want to sit back there, even if I was a child's size.
I hadn't heard the rotary engine sound in a long time....music to my ears.
Personally, I would prefer the RX8 over the 350Z based on the layout of the interior alone.
Unfortunately, they won't have a titanium one coming in until late next month. Some people have bought them without driving it or seeing it in-person. As I told the Mazda sales manager, I wouldn't do that. He said he understood, but wouldn't disuade anyone who wanted to plunk down a $1,000 non-refunadable security deposit. That's the only way to be certain to get the car you wanted. That means that if the color isn't exactly what you thought it would be or for some reason you didn't like the car or that there was a mistake made on the car's manifest regarding equipment levels, you still either have to buy the car or forfit your $1,000.
Based on that fact alone, I doubt I'll have an RX8 in my driveway anytime in the near future.
All that said, the new RX8 is stunning and would be a better buy than either an S2000 or a 350Z.
Sweet ride, and the interior quality looks good from what I could see, didn't get to sit in.
TJ
I think I'm talking myself into this car, as they let me drive the demonstrator again, yesterday. This time they let me drive it for about a 1/2 hour through some back roads and on the interstate. This car is really sweet. High quality throughout and tight as a drum.
I would think that winter driving wouldn't be an issue given it has some sort of all speed traction control and anti-lock.
I think it depends on what you want. They come very well equipped even with no options and well under $30K....about the same price as a totally loaded Accord.
The salesman was talking to another looker, so I just kinda snuk up and got in the driver's seat. I JUST fit in the car. I mean, I put that seat all the way back and tilted it to where I could actually see out the windshield and that left the steering wheel just in arms reach. So I thought this MIGHT be ok. Then I closed the door. Yikes! I was kind of expecting more breathing room and better visibility out of a 4-seater. I know its a sporting car, but even my Alfa Spider with the top up offers me a better view. And what were they thinking with the armrest on the door? The armrest is down at thigh height and the window sill is way up at shoulder height.
So I didn't stick around to see about a test drive. I'm sure I would have loved the road manners based on what others have described, but my lack of comfort rules it out for me since it would be my daily commuter. I'm disappointed. I've always wanted an RX and thought this would be my chance.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I spent close to an hour studying the car insinde & out while waiting for my salesperson to finish a delivery. Paint, fit and finish are flawless. It neither looks nor feels like a $26K car. I had some concern about what had looked to be a high beltline, but outward visibility was as good as my Prelude, except to the rear which is somewhat compromised by the short backlight. The exterior mirror placement is perfect.
The rear seat works and is actually comfy, but the headrests could be taller.
Ergonomically, I could find no faults. The seats are comfy, controls are well-placed and provide good tactile feedback. The full-length center console is attractive and very effective. The only quibbles I could find with the interior are the peculiar mesh sun visors and the transmission hump that protrudes slightly into the front-seat passenger's footwell -- my wife had to sit with her left leg slightly askew or with her knee bent, finding neither position ideally comfortable.
The trunk is small, but offers nothing other than useful space once you clear the high liftover. There is a noise/temperature insulation blanket on the underside of the trunklid.
Upon startup, the RENESIS has a great warble, which caused my wife & I to smile. I initially wished for a seat-height adjustment, but once underway found the pedal-wheel-seat relationship to be perfect.
Clutch takeup seemed to be a bit abrupt, with a friction point very low in the pedal stroke. Being a hot day, I really wanted to see how the engine handled three people on board with the A/C blasting while puttering around on surface streets. Throttle respone remained very linear, and the engine refused to lug, even when I floored the gas at 35mph in 4th gear. This is a very flexible powerplant, not unlike a DC motor -- the more you put in, the more you get out.
Once on the highway, I cracked the whip. I was surprised to discover that I couldn't catch the engine off-stride with wild throttle modulations -- underway, the car feels like it has a large flywheel, but the rate at which it revs says otherwise. The only place I could detect any vibration at 8000rpm+ was through the shifter, but it wasn't unwelcome.
I attacked a familiar cloverleaf at the intersection of two interstates. I was able to carry 10-15mph higher cornering speeds than I can with my Prelude. The RX-8 drifts beautifully, and you feel as though you can turn the car within its own length. Want to change your line in mid-corner? The RX-8 will do it. The DSC did cut some power when I became over-enthusiastic after passing one apex, but it did not unsettle the car in any way.
I decided to switch the DSC off and do all four on/off ramps again. Perfect four-wheel drifts are only a roll of the throttle and a slow unwinding of the wheel away. The steering and handling are perfect. There is a hint of body roll upon corner entry, but the shocks stiffen immediately and let you carve away. The steering is best described as telepathic. The salesman remarked about this being the most fun he's ever had on a test drive.
The brakes are very quick and progressive.
I did notice a tendency to run into the backside of 1st gear when performing a fast 1-2 shift, possibly as a result of the afforementioned clutch takeup, or as an emissions control measure. By the end of the drive I was already used to it, but when performing a shift high in the rev band, it did feel like the engine was holding on to revs a bit.
While the motor is a marvel, it does not impart the same go-for-broke feeling of a DOHC VTEC mill. The response is so spookily linear and smooth that I found myself missing a frenzied rush to redline. The RENESIS builds revs at a quick but but steady pace, unlike a DOHC VTEC which pulls harder as it revs higher and offers an obvious "zing" at the redline. The RENESIS has plenty of power and revs, but didn't give me the top-end rush I was expecting -- it's almost too refined and quiet.
Overall, the RX-8 is an A+, but I won't be replacing my Prelude with one, and here's why:
-- If my Prelude is a "10", then the RX-8 is a "12", but unless your commute consistes entirely of decreasing-radius curves, you might not mind the fact that the Prelude offers 90% of what the RX-8 does. In other words, the RX-8 doesn't offer ME enough of a difference over my Prelude to make it worth the investment.
-- Geography. In an area where we consider 150" of snow in a winter to be getting off lightly, RWD is a difficult sell for me. I look at the WRX wagon and see comparable performance, but the added benefits of AWD and utility. I am well aware of the dynamic limitations of AWD, but the safety net that it provides on slick roads is an acceptable tradeoff for me.
For those who can live with RWD year round, I can't imagine needing or finding a better balance of comfort, performance and practicality than the RX-8. Bravo, Mazda! You've really pulled it off.
must be music to the ears :-)
a) is sick of FWD sporty coupes,
b) needs some 'decent' rear seat room, and...
c) lives in an area where 3 snow flakes = the apocolypse.....
I think you can guess what I'll be buying next....unfortunately, it's my wifes 'turn' to replace a vehicle (mine is 2 years newer).
She wants a minivan.....8^(
As it revs, the engine goes "huuuummmmmmmmmMMMMMMM!" It doesn't get very loud, just a bit more insistant.
As previously mentioned, I was expecting more ferocity at the top end. Given the good torque spread and lack of aural payoff, there isn't much reason to rev it beyond 5,000rpm.
And the RX-8's back seat area is more than "decent"--it's useful and surprisingly pleasant.
To anyone considering the RX-8 at MSRP: it's well worth it.
Up until this point, I considered BMW straight 6s, Porsche rear mounted 6s and Ford/Chevy small block V8s to be the standard bearers for sweet sounding engines.
I'll go out on a limb and say that the RENESIS is now the best sounding engine I've heard. It's turbine like through the rev range until you hit about 7K RPMs where it turns into a very precise mechanical "whirrrlllll"....not buzzy, nor busy, but it sounds like a very precision type winding "HUMMMMMMMM" (as himiler points out). I got the impression of a piece of very tight build techniques/engineering because it revs so high and with no audible strain that I noticed.
I'm sure I'll be able to "dial in" the engine sound to shift before redline once I drive it every day, but the 3 test drives I did had me hitting the rev limiter since there is no strain, at all as you wind it out. The torque delivery is so linear and power delivery so smooth, you really have to use the tach to see where you are in the rev range. It feels like it can rev forever.
I had that same question myself. I learned to drive bir RWD V8 cars with pitiful tires by today's standards. So, I don't think the RX8 will be much of a challenge. We don't get much snow most winters in the Ohio Valley anyway (but when it does snow, it snows a bunch).
Having driven RWD cars with trac control in more recent winters, I'm amazed at how well they do in snow....many times better than FWD cars.
No matter, if it does become an issue I'll be ordering some BLIZZAKS from the TIRE RACK.
it's as if it's asking to be revved, HARD :-D
they told us it will be featured on the cover of the issue 2-4 months down the road.
they placed their order/deposit 6 months ago...
Dinu
We all got a good laugh when I suggested that he put paint sealant on their car... haha
I saw the RX-8. My God, what a sight. And in all colors: red, yellow, blue, silver, black. No titanium or green. They (Oak Tree Mazda in San Jose) had a yellow, a blue, and a black siting in the showroom.
I was talking pricing with the sales guy. Mentioned I objected to the Dealer Markup ($5000). He immediately dropped it to $1500, but later, his manager seemed to be willing to take it off completely, so it's MSRP! They said all the cars are available to drive off today! No need to reserve, and oh, no $1000 non-deductible like someone else mentioned earlier here.
Bottom line: Lightning Yellow 6speed, Grand Touring Package, $31,100. I figured that out-the-door would be $34,200. With 10% down, and financing the rest at 4% for 5 years (credit union), I am looking at a total cost of $37,440.
Now, I can get a comparable 6s (leather, comfort, AT, Bose, Moonroof, ULEV, Appearance) at $26,055 MSRP for approx. $24,000 (little over invoice). Less the $1,250 loyalty rebate and with the 0% financing, my cost would be $27,800. or a difference of $10 grand!
What do you think? Is the 8 worth $10 grand over the 6? Let me know!
Dinu
If the additional $10K isn't an *issue*, then it really boils down to which ever car makes the most sense for your lifestyle and driving habits.
I love the 6s, but don't want a FWD sedan, so for me the choice would be simple.
but who wants to be practical anyway? ;-)
These are two different cars.
While the 6 is a fine practical car in its own right (I'd prefer it over a Camry or an Accord), the RX8 is a sports car that happens to have a bit of practicality thrown in with a comfy back seat and rear doors. Best thing to do is to drive both and tell us whether you think it's worth another $10K. My bet is you will.
That first run through the gears and the sound of the engine urging you towards the redline is intoxicating.
MB
I've heard of letting a turbo car idle for a minute or so after running hard, but not a rotary.
The car I tested already had 391 miles on it, and the salesman didn't tell me not to beat-spin it.
http://www.mazdacar.ru/rx-8/1/RX8_05.JPG
http://www.mazdacar.ru/rx-8/1/RX8_03.JPG
Dinu
I think it's preventive measure to ensure the metal plates inside the rotor housing and the rotors warm up and expand fully before shutting down, so the seals don't get stressed out.
I should have looked at the manual when I ordered mine.
Regular maintenance (Schedule I) calls for oil changes at 6 months or 7,500 miles. Clean Air Filter and inspect brakes at 12 months/15K miles. 30K miles service suggests inspecting the drive belt, fuel lines, hoses, and connections, cooling system, etc. Air Conditioning filter replaced every 25K miles or 24 months.
Schedule II (short distance trips, heavy wear, dusty or salty roads, etc.) suggests 4 months or 5K mile oil changes, and the rest of the schedule appears close to the above.
If you have any more questions, just ask.
Mine is the same as yours except I'm getting the red/black leather.
Is there any indication as to a need to use synthetic oil? What grade of oil do they call for (5W30, 10W30, etc.)?
I'll probably do the 3K or 3 month oil changes.
The owner's manual says 5W 20 with quality designation SL or ILSAC. Doesn't speak to synthetic in my quick scan.
Also, something I hadn't noticed until reading the manual, is that this car doesn't have a spare tire, but comes with an "emergency flat tire repair kit". A temp spare is available as a dealer installed accessory, but that takes up a good bit of trunk space. Probably a good idea to keep their roadside assistance number handy.
I guess I'll forget about synth oil then. My dealer offers "no-charge" oil changes for as long as I own the car, so I'll make sure to have them follow manufacturer's designation.
I have linked this discussion into that folder, but it will always reside here in CC&SC.
Looking forward to meeting everyone!
KarenS
Senior Host
Owners Clubs
My Pics: http://web.tampabay.rr.com/mbarto/images/My_RX-8/
If you haven't gotten a chance to see one, or you would like to meet the RX-8 owners, stop by!
People will be gathering at the parking lot around 6:30, and the meeting will be inside Fuddruckers at 7:30
hope to see you there!