Mazda RX-8 – is not just a car, but as if the result of a party of engineers, at which they decided that boring motors on pistons do not roll anymore, and came up with a rotary engine. But not everything is so simple: in one corner of the hall there were fans of the legendary RX-7, in the other – those who wanted the car not only to fly, but also not to be afraid to buy it for moms with children. And in the middle was the chief designer, who decided that the “pocket-doors” were a hit, because the rear doors of the RX-8 open against traffic, as if the car decided to greet you sideways.
History and development
The RX-8 appeared in 2003 as a successor to the iconic Mazda RX-7, but without the turbo and with a more “civilian” bias. It was expected that it would tear everyone on the tracks, but Mazda made a move and released the car with a 1.3-liter rotary engine (13B-MSP), producing 192 hp or 231 hp, depending on the version. Yes, a rotary engine with a displacement of only 1.3 liters! It’s as if someone decided to revise all the laws of physics and said: “Why not?”
But as the great Internet guru said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” In the case of the RX-8 – it’s the reverent care of the engine. Rotary engines – are like Cat’s among motors: incredibly cute and special, but they require constant attention and love to keep them from becoming a mountain of scrap metal.
The car was produced until 2012, and while its sales didn’t break records, it won the hearts of those looking for something different. Mazda even made some improvements in 2008 to make it a little more reliable, but the rotary problems never went away.
Interesting Facts:
- Rotary Engine. The RX-8 is equipped with a rotary engine, which by its very nature is quite different from a conventional piston engine. This means that every time you open the hood, your fellow car enthusiasts look at you like you own some rare dinosaur.
- “Freak engine” and fuel. The rotary eats gasoline and oil like crazy. As they say in the Internet:“If the RX-8 does not consume oil, it means that it has already finished it”.
- 4 doors, but it’s a coupe. Mazda wanted to make a sports car, but also with room for rear passengers. The result? Rear doors that open in the opposite direction, as if the car had decided to go rogue, like a pickup cabriolet at a party.
- Sound. This engine sounds like a mix of drones and Jedi swords, which is beyond thrilling, especially at high rpm. It’s the kind of sound you hear and your soul starts to ask, “Is that an airplane taking off?”.
Average impressions of the owners
RX-8 owners – are like fans of a Netflix series: they either adore it or hate it. The average reviews can be summarized as follows:
- Driving pleasure. Many say the RX-8 handles like a sports car. It has excellent weight distribution and is easy to corner – perfect for those who like to wag their tails on twisty roads.
- “Rotor love is a tricky thing.” The main pain of owners is the reliability of the engine. If it’s not taken care of, it’s “fucked”. Constant maintenance, quality oil, and yes, some say the RX-8 is a car that teaches drivers to be more responsible. Don’t want any problems? Take care of the rotary like a pet.
- Consumption. Fuel, oil – it all “flies” faster than memes about Cat’s. But owners say, “If you bought an RX-8 and you’re complaining about consumption, dude, you’re missing the point.” It’s like going to a Michelin-starred restaurant and complaining that the plate is small.
- Comfort and unusualness. The interior of the RX-8 is very pleasant, although many people complain that the seating position is too low. But once you get in, this car falls in love with you. Also, a four-seat sports car with such a cool design? That’s rare!
Types of RX-8 tuning
RX-8 tuning – is an entire culture that includes both visual and technical tweaks. Here are the most popular trends:
- Rotary Engine Modifications. RX-8 enthusiasts often replace stock parts with upgraded parts to increase reliability and power. Turbocharger kits are popular, which can raise power to 350-400 hp. But that’s certainly the way to go for those who aren’t afraid to look under the hood more often than in the rearview mirror.
- Exhaust systems. The rotary engine is a sound fanatic’s paradise. Installing custom exhaust systems allows you to squeeze not only horses out of this engine, but also a “Friday Night Club” soundtrack.
- Air suspension and suspension lowering. The RX-8 looks great on the road, especially if you give it a little “lower”. Many fans put air or sport suspension for even more driving pleasure and to make the car just “lay” on the pavement.
- Cosmetic Tuning. From vinyls to wide body dodgers, RX-8 owners like to stand out. Its futuristic design seems to scream: “Hey, I want more attention!”.
- Forged Rims. The RX-8 is often adorned with beautiful lightweight rims to improve handling and visual style. Stylish and lightweight rims – are like new sneakers for your car.
- Interior changes. Interior modifications range from sport seats to an upgraded multimedia system. And if someone decides to replace the leather interior with racing seats – that’s a whole other level of racer.
Bottom line
The Mazda RX-8 – is a car that will either make you fall in love with its rotary engines or disappoint you with its cranky nature. But whatever the case, it remains one of the most unique cars of its time, and its owners are fans of not just cars, but a whole philosophy.