Even though my posts are not necessarily positive. It just that over-estimating the market will doom the RX-7 since that's what they say they are using to judge the potential. I've previously owned of 2 RX-7's and I'd love to see it at these prices. I love the RX-8 but it kinda loses me with those back doors.
dtran2149 - Thanks for posting that ebay site but this color is more of sharp teal color. On any other car, I might not care for it, but it is just outstanding on the M3. This color is on the current series of M3 so it might be that Laguna Blue. Even if money wasn't an issue with me (as in I could afford anything I wanted), that would be in my garage. I seldom gaze at another person's car while on the road, but when I first saw that blue M3, I couldn't help but smile.
Habitat1 - That blue M3 coupe would get me to pay the $25K more. Something about it! How much would a 1 to 2 year old M3 coupe be? What's the reliabilty like?
Gee35coupe - Habitat1 had a point about actually going to the dealership to find out for sure. I see several Corvettes sitting in lots all the time, but it doesn't mean they aren't selling. There are too many possible scenarios to be able to state accurately whether or not the car is selling right now. Also, there is no reason to think the car won't be successful this winter. The people who buy SUVs were never thinking about a sports coupe in the first place. Even though the RX-8 is rear wheel, unless your region always gets a ton of snow, you could drive this car the whole winter. It's not a convertible. Plus, that 12K number is Mazda's number of sold to the dealerships. That isn't too high of a number in my opinion.
I think you're probably looking at the high 30's for a 2001 M3 coupe. Not sure on reliability yet.
Back on the RX-8, what do people think of the cloth seats? They seem to be of a pretty good quality. While I like the leather two-tone seats, the leather feels slightly rubbery-ish. Did anyone get that impression as well? How do you think both types of seats will wear over time?
The RX-8 seems to be selling quite well in my area (WA state), already I have seen a couple of them on the road. Little dealer inventory too, my local dealer only had 2 in stock.
the RX-8 sales at our store have been a little bit "different" than we expected....this isnt bad, just not typical. Once we got some unsold inventory it let us offer test drives....this translated into lot's of factory orders, not sales of instock units. Most were buying as a second vehicle and there wasnt any urgency to take one in a second choice color or options.... The RX-8 buyer we have seen wants the car built for them, they way they want. So yes, I have some unsold inventory on the ground but all of my october, november and part of december allocation is sold out.
Is it me, or does the Mazda USA website dealer inventory function not useful at all? It appears to either have outdated and limited information on the cars. For instance, it doesn't tell me if a car that is supposed to be at a dealer is pre-sold or not. What's the point of using the function beyond identifying the close dealers!?
dtran...I agree, the inventory that's shown at any particular dealer when you check from the Mazda web site is all wrong. I've probably gone to 5 or 6 different dealers where it shows they have 4,5,6 units in stock via the web site. you arrive at the dealer only to find that information is wrong.
from what I understand, the web site shows not only cars that are already sold, but cars that haven't even been delivered to the dealer yet.
is not the only one that suffers from this. The Nissan web-site does the same thing, it too lists all that is coming to the dealer, whether it is available for purchase or not (pre-ordered).
I wonder if this is the same with other car manufacturer's web-sites as well.
The web sites are probably all like this to some extent because you need to have a central tracking mechanism to record shipments and sale deliveries that is updated daily by all the dealers for their inventory. The thinking is that the web site is more there as a teaser/appetizer for most people anyways, and the "IRR" for developing that IT or logistic capability would not result in sales increases. Dealers probably don't have any incentive to make those types of improvements as well because they could be hurt as often as they benefit from showing their current/latest inventory. The system thrives on the lack of transparency in way, ya know?
Marking "pre-orders" though should be somewhat more straight-forward as Mazda central would know that when sending the inventory info out the first time. Exceptions such as cancelled pre-orders would be issues, but that's probably not a significant number.
Getting to the next level web-wise in terms of actually purchasing a vehicle on-line would probably encourage car manufacturers to make their sites provide a more robust and dynamic customer experience.
graphicguy is correct. You will not only see what the current inventory is (unsold, if there is any), but also the "presold" allocated units. My car was listed on the website for almost 2 months before it arrived and I took delivery.
Look at my profile and send me an e-mail. I'll respond to you by attaching some pictures of the Nordic Green. I don't have that color, but I do have some pictures I can share with you. It will show the different hues of the Nordic green depending on the sunlight, light source, etc.
Thought I would put in a review as I touched 3000 miles yesterday. The honeymoon is over and I am not seeking to justify my purchase anymore. I ahve this car for the long haul now, for better or for worse. So here are my thoughts.
Handling and acceleration Driving in and around Boston is how you realize how much handling and acceleration are linked. 0-60 times and top speeds are irrelevant if you are not confident you can handle your car as it attains speed at incredibly fast rates. The RX8 is just wonderful at marrying the two. The power (all 238 horses) is all there - but what makes it so exhilarating to drive is that the car never, ever gives you the feeling that it is running away from you. The RX8 however, demands driver involvement. You have to have the revs high to have fun - implies more shifting than higher-torque cars like the 350z. Once you learn how to keep the car on the boil, however, it can beat or keep up with ANY car below 40,000. One note: the rotary is very easy to rev. I never realized you could get to 3000 rpm with such a small tap with your foot. This was initially a problem as I got the car moving from standstill. You get quickly used to it.
Everyday convenience: I use the car for regular commute to office. Except on days that traffic is killing, the car is a joy. On bad traffic days, the manual-shift means more work for your left foot and right hand. But thats true of any car with a stick shift. I have found the car's trunk can almost always handle our weekly grocery shopping. The narrow opening is deceptive, a lot can go in there. The best thing: if I am in the mood for some fast driving, but want to have my wife and son along, its not a problem. The back seat is very accomodating, though a little claustrophobic. All-in-all a very easy performance car to live with. By the way, this does not mean "sell your family sedan". This is only a family-friendly performance vehicle, NOT a family vehicle. If you have family, this has to be your second car.
Interior comfort: Nice interior materials and great seats. The seating is snug, so if you are big, you may find the space restrictive. But it does contribute to a cockpit-like feeling that helps when you are driving fast. The car has a stiff suspension so you will be jolted on rough roads. But it is not punishing. I have not used the navigation system except to pinpoint my own location, so cannot comment on it. The music system is good, I have the Bose. My one big complaint: the lack of a standard 6 cd changer
Fuel economy: Not great but not bad. With a VERY heavy foot, lots of idling between home and work, practically no highway travel and a few 3000 rpm launches, 17.5 miles per gallon. You could call that low, but I wasn't expecting much more. By the way, I have extracted 19 miles per gallon from the car in the city with some careful driving, so I know Mazda is not lying. (But you have to upshift fairly quickly - not much fun there!)
Glitches: At 2500 miles, the engine oil warning light came on. Turned out the oil was as a quart low. I had been warned that rotaries consume more engine oil, but was still surprised. No malfunctioning anywhere though. I have also noticed a small paint chip under the trunk lid. Can't think of anything else.
Other stuff: Keep in mind that this car requires snow tires in the winter. The stock tires are 'summer' tires. Tire rack is already selling 18" V-rated snow tires from Blizzak specifically for the RX8 ($250 a piece I think). I think there are also some less expensive tires, probably from Dunlop.
Comparison with other cars: That is something this board has enough of!!!!
Hope prospective buyers and current users will find the review informative.
Only qualifier I'd add is "perhaps" it will need snow tire. Winter snow testing was done in Japan (courtesy of the neat RX8 book that was sent to all of us who pre-ordered) using the current tires. While the reports of those tests aren't extensive, the RX8 does indeed, go in the snow with the 18" Pontenzas.
I'm waiting until the first snow flies on whether to invest the money for snows.
Great Review...thanks for sharing. I have one question though. Why did you get the navigation option if you haven't used it (except to pinpoint where you are - which I hope you knew already)?
I am seriously considering returning my RX8, and am down to the short strokes. Test drove a G35 and Z350 and am still on the fence. Kind of nice driving into the Infinity and Nissan dealerships in a brand spankin new RX8. They know the exact position that I am in when I drive in, and they are hungry for the business. Bottom line, I can save $2000-$3000 (CAN), with a full refund from Mazda. From the get go, I wanted an RX8, and didn't do my shopping of other makes and models.
I bought a fully loaded RX8 about 6 weeks ago, Titanium grey, GT (leather), a ton of extras, moon roof, 6 cd player, aluminum pedals and foot rest, front air dam, side deflectors, exhaust finish, front and back mud guarrds, rotary crest front & rear, scuff plates, and cargo tray. 46k (CAN)= 33,600 (US)
It was an extra $4k of stuff that I didn't want, and was told I was given the song and dance about waiting until spring 04, but really fell in love with the look of the car.
I already have 2000km on it. Below are my findings:
Positives:
a. Handles like a bullet on rails. b. Once you are over 5500RPM acceleration is amazing, but 3500-4500RPM not nearly as quick and feels slow to accelerate. (solution: drop a gear) c. Stops extremely fast (almost too fast, if you have to stop quickly, make sure you are looking in rear view mirror too!) c. Lots of room for golf clubs, plus extra stuff.
Not so happy stuff.
a. Seem to run hot, and is warm inside the car. Good for cooler temps, but in the summer, if you don't like to use a/c, it makes for an uncomfortable cruising, esp because getting wind flow into the car is difficult because of the aerodynamic design.
b. Seems to go through gas fast, but I do drive it faster than you normallly would. (not a big deal to me)
c. blind spot behind driver. (not a big deal)
d. oil light just came on this weekend, and I need to get it checked. (if you are intersted, I will post the diagnosis from Mazda.)
e. did not like getting pressured with the song and dance about waiting until spring to get the model at the price that i wanted. Still have a bitter taste in my mouth, and this may be the opportunity to rinse it out...
Finally, sorry for the long winded message, but we are only being offered 3 years of maintenance not 4. Anyone got any insight on this one?
Thought I would throw this out there, as the Sept. 31 deadline for returning the car is quickly approaching....
rx8 canuck-which extras/add-on's did you feel were useful vs. not needed/used/desirable after you bought the car? Stated another way, if you bought the RX-8 again today, how would you configure it?
Also, have you definitely ruled out buying another RX-8 at maybe a better discount in a few months vs. the 350Z/G35?
I read your negatives, does not seem too bad... what made you want to change to a Z/G35?
If I were you I would go to a couple of Z forums across the net, they have their issues as well too just so you know.
I have been waiting for my 350Z to arrive, but all this waiting has caused me to go to various Z forums to look for stuff to read ... however I have read some disheartening issues that I am hoping is just a 2003 thing and that Nissan has fixed for 2004. I hope.
As the old saying goes... its not always greener on the other side.
I prob have the most miles on my rx8 of anyone in the forum. I agree with mostly everything sroc2004 had to say about the cars review. My oil light has also come on numerous times so I am guessing this is a defect that all of the Rx8's are having, especially since my oil level was not that low. I am ignoring it for the time being when it flickers but I would like to slove this problem soon. Any advice please let me know.
Smart comment there carliker. Fact is, I fully intend to play around with it, but have not gotten around to it yet. I have an old habit of mapping out my route before I leave the house. Old fashioned I know - never had a car with a nav system before. But I do leave the nav system on, it helps me figure out if I am on the right road, if I took the right turn, if my turn is approaching etc.. But I have not programmed it yet to take me to a destination.
My oil light was also flickering on and off. When the engine is cold, turn it on and wait for the rpms to go down to 1000 or just below. Turn off the engine and check the oil level. I have found checking it under any other condition is misleading - almost always shows a higher level than actually is. If you want to show it to a dealer, I would probably go sooner than later.
thanks for the tip on the snow performance tests in Japan. I will wait too for the first snow before ordering the snow tires. Mind you, the manual is upfront about those tires being summer tires.
sroc2004, if you're planning to drive your RX-8 through the winter, I'd strongly recommend winter tires. Driving on summer performance tires during a Noreaster would be less than fun...
I've had my car since Aug. 4th and have 4200 miles on mine. About the oil light problem, take your car to the dealer. There is a known fix. A new oil pan and updated software.
As a rule. It's what lubes the APEX seals. In my time with mine I found the harder I drove it the more oil it burned. You HAVE to keep an eye on the oil level. There's nothing wrong with your cars. I'm sure in the owners manual it says to check your oil frequently.
It's also thirsty. You gotta realize it's essentially a high winding 6 cylinder engine. And drinks gas accordingly.
If your oil light is coming on, some of the early RX8s (which mine is, but no oil light problem) need to have a baffle put into the oil pan....that solves the oil light problem.
Regarding oil useage....the RENESIS is such a new design that the oil useage issue was one of the top priorities when the RX8 was being developed. There really isn't any correlation between the old rotaries and the RENESIS.
Very fascinating, the "RX8 book" that was sent to those that pre-ordered, has quite a bit of information regarding the oil useage issue in older rotaries. Without going into detail, the RX8 won't use any more oil than a normal piston engine.
Was that the same guy who had a 350Z then traded it for a G35 then trade that for an M3 then traded that for an RX8?
Can you imagine what the depreciation hits he took?
I would imagine that each time he traded he would have taken a "hit" of at least $3K each time. That's almost $10K spent just to take what amounts to "extensive test drives".
Some more so than others, including reciprocating ones (what do you think lubricates the piston rings?). An engine is still considered within spec if it burns up to 1qt every 1,000 miles. At least this is the line I'm given about reciprocating piston engines. Seems to be the same threshold for rotary engines from Mazda too. Rotary engines also require lubrication of the face seals.
That's a lot of oil, IMO. My cars ('89 323LX and '99 ProtegeLX) don't burn a noticeable amount of oil between oil changes. My wife's '91 Saturn SL2 started burning oil (almost 1qt every 1,000 miles) sometime after 9 years of service. Her current '03 P5 doesn't burn a noticeable amount. Of course, this is only my personal experience with my own cars. My dad's Olds Firenza and Ford Taurus both noticeably burned oil (of course, the Firenza kept blowing valve cover gaskets, so some of the burning was of oil seeping onto the exterior of the engine).
Each engine will have variation. Some won't burn much, some will burn a lot. Depends on what the tolerances are in the parts in your engine. The more cycles per mile (revs), the more oil is consumed. That's why everyone should check their oil level at least every few fill-ups. My wife rarely checked hers, but at least told me when her engine (in her Saturn) was making raspy noises. She would usually be down about a quart at this point. Eek.
- these options make the RX8 look hot! I have looked at the standard look of the RX8 without these accessories, and it looks very meek.
Either way
Maybe buy:
6 cd player
- good for long road trips.
Wouldn't by :
rotary crest front, cargo tray, scuff plates, aluminum pedals and foot rest, front & rear and back mud guards
- not very noticeable to me.
I am definitely thinking return the RX8, shop through the winter, and rebuy ( hope I don't sound too negative, but with car buying, the actual buying experience is such an important part of customer satisfaction with the product. I had a great experience when I bought a new mx-6 back in 96) or change in spring of 2004.
I'm like a kid in the candy store right now... so much eye candy everywhere, 350Z, G35.
This is a great site, with candid real world feedback!
I think I figured out what makes the interior seem so cramped to me. The center tunnel is very wide and pushes the seats closer to the side glass. The front seat width is very similar to my Miata and the RX8 has to be wider than that car. Anyone else noticed the massive width of that tunnel? I have read this tunnel is the super strong backbone of the RX8 and helps make the structure extra rigid, but I wish they had reduced the amount of valuable space it takes up. One very minor gripe with the 4 bucket seat arrangement is you can't lay down in the back on a long trip. The darn console really restricts any kind of moving around, which would make the back seat more claustrophobic and uncomfortable than it has to be. Taking these things into account, it will be hard to justify buying this car, but I can't get over the gorgeous looks. It's just so exciting to look at!!
carliker: Yeah I guess he could have done that instead of buying two cars, the M3 is one sweet machine! Most likely the other car is for his wife though, which makes sense. Imagine both of them trying to go to work with only one vehicle!
graphicguy: No its a different guy, a new poster to that forum. He has a Blue 350Z and an S2k, and then replaced the S2k with a red RX-8. Lucky him eh?
not to be nasty, but if you are concerned about sleeping time on a long trip, there are many minivans out there with great 3rd row seats where you can sleep. Most of them cost less than the rx-8...(-;
Not quite as exciting to look at, though I do think my MPV is quite a nice ride.
Jaquino - If that's the case, he should have bought the M3 and made his wife take the bus! You think that statement will get me in trouble here? BTW, what do you think the demographics are between men/female who visit this chat forum?
I can see getting up in the morning heading for work...."gee honey, which car should I drive today?" Maybe he should get a car just to drive when it rains so he can leave the sports cars in the garage.
Let's see....what would be a good rainy day car? I say he should also get a Hummer for inclement weather......
carliker: OOOOOOOOO, that remark is gonna get you thrown out of the house on a rainy day haha! I assume by that comment that you are probably still single, like me LOL. Remember this when you do get married: Her car is hers, Your car is hers, and your better half (wife) always gets the better car! Stray from this, and you could find yourself in a WORLD OF HURT!
graphicguy: Hmmmm that question poses a bit of a conundrum. You should probably rephrase that question to say something like this: "Honey, sweetheart, sweety-pie (you get the picture), which car do YOU want to drive today? If she says RX-8, take the Z without question or hesitation, or vice-versa!
Laying down in the back seat was just an example of added comfort on longer trips (I never fly, too expensive; no kids so no need for a minivan). Obviously, if I'm going solo it won't matter. My main point was that the center console makes it impossible to move around any. You basically are stuck facing forward staring at the back of the front seat which can make that person feel claustrophobic and more prone to car sickness. I'm one who sometimes gets car sick and since I'm the one that gets relegated to the back seat if carrying friends (due to my 16 yr old height, LOL), I have to put up with it. My Tiburon's back seat is claustrophobic some due to the small side windows and the low ceiling, but I can at least move into the center of the seat and look out through the front window or sprawl out and change positions. The center console severely limits the RX8's appeal for long distance cruising or carrying more than 2 people. So than the question becomes, why not just get rid of the seat entirely and make it a roomy hatchback design like the original RX7?
Again, this was just a minor observation but I think it makes sense. That console also means you can't fold down the seat for long bulky items. I think now I'm beginning to understand why so many people are disturbed this wasn't a 2 seater since as a 4 seater it ends up being too compromised. Decrease the width of the center tunnel, completely get rid of the tunnel in the back, and allow the back seat to fold and the RX8 begins to make a lot more sense as a "4 seat sports car".
"Decrease the width of the center tunnel, completely get rid of the tunnel in the back, and allow the back seat to fold and the RX8 begins to make a lot more sense as a "4 seat sports car".
You also would lose all the rigidity Mazda required to enable the suspension to work correctly in order for them to call it a "4 seat sports car". Mazda placed the emphasis on 'sport' for the RX-8. If a more useful, comfortable back seat is a priority, try the 6.
The console (through the entire passenger compartment) covers the main strucutural backbone of the car; required by the very large body openings due to the extra doors. Decreasing the width or height of the center tunnel would decrease the structural integrity of the car. The back seat does not fold down due to the cross braced bulkhead between the passenger compartment and the trunk; again, for structural reasons. Compromised? Not hardly. Mazda attempted to build a true 4-seat 'sports car' with as few 'compromises' as reasonable.
Though the driver can be comfortable in the RX-8 during long drives, it wasn't made to take people in the back seat cross country. The back seats just serve the purpose of having people back there for cruising around town or shorter trips. If you knew you were going to go longer distances, get a sedan. The G35 Coupe or other sports coupe with backseats won't offer anymore comfort. The RX-8 has an opening between the seats that you can open that allows "long bulky items" to enter from the trunk. I've just never heard of this complaint before.
My Top Three Favorite Off-Centered Complaints about the RX-8.
1. The Carpet (not being of sound quality...like the "White House" carpeting of the G35 Coupe).
2. Backseat Console (not allowing passengers to take naps during long drives).
3. Cheap Sounding Doors (I just want more BANG for the buck).
Comments
Habitat1 - That blue M3 coupe would get me to pay the $25K more. Something about it! How much would a 1 to 2 year old M3 coupe be? What's the reliabilty like?
Gee35coupe - Habitat1 had a point about actually going to the dealership to find out for sure. I see several Corvettes sitting in lots all the time, but it doesn't mean they aren't selling. There are too many possible scenarios to be able to state accurately whether or not the car is selling right now. Also, there is no reason to think the car won't be successful this winter. The people who buy SUVs were never thinking about a sports coupe in the first place. Even though the RX-8 is rear wheel, unless your region always gets a ton of snow, you could drive this car the whole winter. It's not a convertible. Plus, that 12K number is Mazda's number of sold to the dealerships. That isn't too high of a number in my opinion.
Here is that Laguna Seca car right here in the Big D!
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item- - - =2434078540&category=6131
I think you're probably looking at the high 30's for a 2001 M3 coupe. Not sure on reliability yet.
Back on the RX-8, what do people think of the cloth seats? They seem to be of a pretty good quality. While I like the leather two-tone seats, the leather feels slightly rubbery-ish. Did anyone get that impression as well? How do you think both types of seats will wear over time?
DT
Once we got some unsold inventory it let us offer test drives....this translated into lot's of factory orders, not sales of instock units. Most were buying as a second vehicle and there wasnt any urgency to take one in a second choice color or options.... The RX-8 buyer we have seen wants the car built for them, they way they want. So yes, I have some unsold inventory on the ground but all of my october, november and part of december allocation is sold out.
so far, we are happy with the RX-8...
how about just Mazda Owners Chat, simple and to the point :-)
What's the rundown on colors people want? Can you rank them?
How about options? What are most people getting?
1/2: Velocity Red and/or Titanium Gray
3/4: Brilliant Black and/or Sunlight Silver
5: Winning Blue
6/7: (tie) Nordic Green and/or Lightning Yellow
In terms of popularity of packages, I would guess the following:
1: GT package
2: Sport package
3/4: GT + Nav package and/or Touring package
In terms of popularity of interior combos, I would guess the following:
1: All black leather
2: Red/black leather
3: Black cloth
4: Chaparral/black leather
So the most common is likely Velocity Red or Titanium Gray with red/black or all black and combined with the GT package.
Rarest is likely Nordic Green w/ Chaparral or Lightning Yellow with black either with the touring package.
from what I understand, the web site shows not only cars that are already sold, but cars that haven't even been delivered to the dealer yet.
I wonder if this is the same with other car manufacturer's web-sites as well.
Marking "pre-orders" though should be somewhat more straight-forward as Mazda central would know that when sending the inventory info out the first time. Exceptions such as cancelled pre-orders would be issues, but that's probably not a significant number.
Getting to the next level web-wise in terms of actually purchasing a vehicle on-line would probably encourage car manufacturers to make their sites provide a more robust and dynamic customer experience.
..Mark
My RX-8 http://web.tampabay.rr.com/mbarto/images/My_RX-8
Look at my profile and send me an e-mail. I'll respond to you by attaching some pictures of the Nordic Green. I don't have that color, but I do have some pictures I can share with you. It will show the different hues of the Nordic green depending on the sunlight, light source, etc.
..Mark
My RX-8 http://web.tampabay.rr.com/mbarto/images/My_RX-8
Handling and acceleration
Driving in and around Boston is how you realize how much handling and acceleration are linked. 0-60 times and top speeds are irrelevant if you are not confident you can handle your car as it attains speed at incredibly fast rates. The RX8 is just wonderful at marrying the two. The power (all 238 horses) is all there - but what makes it so exhilarating to drive is that the car never, ever gives you the feeling that it is running away from you. The RX8 however, demands driver involvement. You have to have the revs high to have fun - implies more shifting than higher-torque cars like the 350z. Once you learn how to keep the car on the boil, however, it can beat or keep up with ANY car below 40,000. One note: the rotary is very easy to rev. I never realized you could get to 3000 rpm with such a small tap with your foot. This was initially a problem as I got the car moving from standstill. You get quickly used to it.
Everyday convenience:
I use the car for regular commute to office. Except on days that traffic is killing, the car is a joy. On bad traffic days, the manual-shift means more work for your left foot and right hand. But thats true of any car with a stick shift. I have found the car's trunk can almost always handle our weekly grocery shopping. The narrow opening is deceptive, a lot can go in there. The best thing: if I am in the mood for some fast driving, but want to have my wife and son along, its not a problem. The back seat is very accomodating, though a little claustrophobic. All-in-all a very easy performance car to live with. By the way, this does not mean "sell your family sedan". This is only a family-friendly performance vehicle, NOT a family vehicle. If you have family, this has to be your second car.
Interior comfort:
Nice interior materials and great seats. The seating is snug, so if you are big, you may find the space restrictive. But it does contribute to a cockpit-like feeling that helps when you are driving fast. The car has a stiff suspension so you will be jolted on rough roads. But it is not punishing. I have not used the navigation system except to pinpoint my own location, so cannot comment on it. The music system is good, I have the Bose. My one big complaint: the lack of a standard 6 cd changer
Fuel economy:
Not great but not bad. With a VERY heavy foot, lots of idling between home and work, practically no highway travel and a few 3000 rpm launches, 17.5 miles per gallon. You could call that low, but I wasn't expecting much more. By the way, I have extracted 19 miles per gallon from the car in the city with some careful driving, so I know Mazda is not lying. (But you have to upshift fairly quickly - not much fun there!)
Glitches:
At 2500 miles, the engine oil warning light came on. Turned out the oil was as a quart low. I had been warned that rotaries consume more engine oil, but was still surprised. No malfunctioning anywhere though. I have also noticed a small paint chip under the trunk lid. Can't think of anything else.
Other stuff:
Keep in mind that this car requires snow tires in the winter. The stock tires are 'summer' tires. Tire rack is already selling 18" V-rated snow tires from Blizzak specifically for the RX8 ($250 a piece I think). I think there are also some less expensive tires, probably from Dunlop.
Comparison with other cars:
That is something this board has enough of!!!!
Hope prospective buyers and current users will find the review informative.
Can't disagree.
Only qualifier I'd add is "perhaps" it will need snow tire. Winter snow testing was done in Japan (courtesy of the neat RX8 book that was sent to all of us who pre-ordered) using the current tires. While the reports of those tests aren't extensive, the RX8 does indeed, go in the snow with the 18" Pontenzas.
I'm waiting until the first snow flies on whether to invest the money for snows.
I bought a fully loaded RX8 about 6 weeks ago, Titanium grey, GT (leather), a ton of extras, moon roof, 6 cd player, aluminum pedals and foot rest, front air dam, side deflectors, exhaust finish, front and back mud guarrds, rotary crest front & rear, scuff plates, and cargo tray. 46k (CAN)= 33,600 (US)
It was an extra $4k of stuff that I didn't want, and was told I was given the song and dance about waiting until spring 04, but really fell in love with the look of the car.
I already have 2000km on it. Below are my findings:
Positives:
a. Handles like a bullet on rails.
b. Once you are over 5500RPM acceleration is amazing, but 3500-4500RPM not nearly as quick and feels slow to accelerate. (solution: drop a gear)
c. Stops extremely fast (almost too fast, if you have to stop quickly, make sure you are looking in rear view mirror too!)
c. Lots of room for golf clubs, plus extra stuff.
Not so happy stuff.
a. Seem to run hot, and is warm inside the car. Good for cooler temps, but in the summer, if you don't like to use a/c, it makes for an uncomfortable cruising, esp because getting wind flow into the car is difficult because of the aerodynamic design.
b. Seems to go through gas fast, but I do drive it faster than you normallly would. (not a big deal to me)
c. blind spot behind driver. (not a big deal)
d. oil light just came on this weekend, and I need to get it checked. (if you are intersted, I will post the diagnosis from Mazda.)
e. did not like getting pressured with the song and dance about waiting until spring to get the model at the price that i wanted. Still have a bitter taste in my mouth, and this may be the opportunity to rinse it out...
Finally, sorry for the long winded message, but we are only being offered 3 years of maintenance not 4. Anyone got any insight on this one?
Thought I would throw this out there, as the Sept. 31 deadline for returning the car is quickly approaching....
jc
Also, have you definitely ruled out buying another RX-8 at maybe a better discount in a few months vs. the 350Z/G35?
If I were you I would go to a couple of Z forums across the net, they have their issues as well too just so you know.
I have been waiting for my 350Z to arrive, but all this waiting has caused me to go to various Z forums to look for stuff to read ... however I have read some disheartening issues that I am hoping is just a 2003 thing and that Nissan has fixed for 2004. I hope.
As the old saying goes... its not always greener on the other side.
Seriously, I wished I had the money to get the RX-8 as a second vehicle ...
... must ... resist ... going ... into ... debt ...
A guy over there owns both a 350Z and an RX-8... and loves both cars too. Some people are very fortunate...
As for people like me who can only afford one car, I guess we can drean on
It's also thirsty. You gotta realize it's essentially a high winding 6 cylinder engine. And drinks gas accordingly.
Regarding oil useage....the RENESIS is such a new design that the oil useage issue was one of the top priorities when the RX8 was being developed. There really isn't any correlation between the old rotaries and the RENESIS.
Very fascinating, the "RX8 book" that was sent to those that pre-ordered, has quite a bit of information regarding the oil useage issue in older rotaries. Without going into detail, the RX8 won't use any more oil than a normal piston engine.
Can you imagine what the depreciation hits he took?
I would imagine that each time he traded he would have taken a "hit" of at least $3K each time. That's almost $10K spent just to take what amounts to "extensive test drives".
That's a lot of oil, IMO. My cars ('89 323LX and '99 ProtegeLX) don't burn a noticeable amount of oil between oil changes. My wife's '91 Saturn SL2 started burning oil (almost 1qt every 1,000 miles) sometime after 9 years of service. Her current '03 P5 doesn't burn a noticeable amount. Of course, this is only my personal experience with my own cars. My dad's Olds Firenza and Ford Taurus both noticeably burned oil (of course, the Firenza kept blowing valve cover gaskets, so some of the burning was of oil seeping onto the exterior of the engine).
Each engine will have variation. Some won't burn much, some will burn a lot. Depends on what the tolerances are in the parts in your engine. The more cycles per mile (revs), the more oil is consumed. That's why everyone should check their oil level at least every few fill-ups. My wife rarely checked hers, but at least told me when her engine (in her Saturn) was making raspy noises. She would usually be down about a quart at this point. Eek.
I should have clarified....the RX8, like all cars, will burn oil.
Point I was trying to make was the previous gens of the rotary were known to burn more oil than their piston counterparts.
The RENESIS won't burn more or less oil than a regular reciprocating piston engine.
That said, I'm creeping up on 2K miles on mine and I haven't burned any.
I'll see what its like when I go for my (free) first oil change at 5K miles.
As a habit, I check my oil every 3rd fill-up.
Below is my feedback on the options:
Would buy:
front air dam, exhaust finish, side deflectors.
- these options make the RX8 look hot! I have looked at the standard look of the RX8 without these accessories, and it looks very meek.
Either way
Maybe buy:
6 cd player
- good for long road trips.
Wouldn't by :
rotary crest front, cargo tray, scuff plates, aluminum pedals and foot rest, front & rear and back mud guards
- not very noticeable to me.
I am definitely thinking return the RX8, shop through the winter, and rebuy ( hope I don't sound too negative, but with car buying, the actual buying experience is such an important part of customer satisfaction with the product. I had a great experience when I bought a new mx-6 back in 96) or change in spring of 2004.
I'm like a kid in the candy store right now... so much eye candy everywhere, 350Z, G35.
This is a great site, with candid real world feedback!
jc
graphicguy: No its a different guy, a new poster to that forum. He has a Blue 350Z and an S2k, and then replaced the S2k with a red RX-8. Lucky him eh?
Not quite as exciting to look at, though I do think my MPV is quite a nice ride.
I can see getting up in the morning heading for work...."gee honey, which car should I drive today?" Maybe he should get a car just to drive when it rains so he can leave the sports cars in the garage.
Let's see....what would be a good rainy day car? I say he should also get a Hummer for inclement weather......
graphicguy: Hmmmm that question poses a bit of a conundrum. You should probably rephrase that question to say something like this: "Honey, sweetheart, sweety-pie (you get the picture), which car do YOU want to drive today? If she says RX-8, take the Z without question or hesitation, or vice-versa!
Again, this was just a minor observation but I think it makes sense. That console also means you can't fold down the seat for long bulky items. I think now I'm beginning to understand why so many people are disturbed this wasn't a 2 seater since as a 4 seater it ends up being too compromised. Decrease the width of the center tunnel, completely get rid of the tunnel in the back, and allow the back seat to fold and the RX8 begins to make a lot more sense as a "4 seat sports car".
You also would lose all the rigidity Mazda required to enable the suspension to work correctly in order for them to call it a "4 seat sports car". Mazda placed the emphasis on 'sport' for the RX-8. If a more useful, comfortable back seat is a priority, try the 6.
The console (through the entire passenger compartment) covers the main strucutural backbone of the car; required by the very large body openings due to the extra doors. Decreasing the width or height of the center tunnel would decrease the structural integrity of the car. The back seat does not fold down due to the cross braced bulkhead between the passenger compartment and the trunk; again, for structural reasons. Compromised? Not hardly. Mazda attempted to build a true 4-seat 'sports car' with as few 'compromises' as reasonable.
My Top Three Favorite Off-Centered Complaints about the RX-8.
1. The Carpet (not being of sound quality...like the "White House" carpeting of the G35 Coupe).
2. Backseat Console (not allowing passengers to take naps during long drives).
3. Cheap Sounding Doors (I just want more BANG for the buck).
1. The Carpet (not being of sound quality...like the "White House" carpeting of the G35 Coupe).
2. Backseat Console (not allowing passengers to take naps during long drives).
3. Cheap Sounding Doors (I just want more BANG for the buck). "
NOW THAT IS FUNNY!!!!!!
If it's really that important to take a nap in the RX8, why not just recline the front seat?
Problem solved.