The former was attached to a six-speed manual gearbox, while the latter got a five-speed with different ratios. Underpinnings were closely related to the third-generation Mazda MX-5 - indeed, engineers used MX-5 prototypes to develop the drivetrain. Suspension is double-wishbone up front and multi-link at the rear, and Mazda managed to keep weight relatively low, with a kg figure - the more conventional and less powerful contemporary 1. Power therefore remained the same, but OZ-racing wheels, Bilstein dampers with Eibach springs, and a fruitier exhaust all made for a more serious sports car.
The RX-8 lasted until in the UK, when it was withdrawn from sale based on emissions standards. The wallow has been replaced by a much flatter cornering attitude, the ride is firmer but not crashy or uncomfortable and the whole thing feels very well sorted.
The stiffer front end has made the first dart into a corner more direct and also given a little more weight and feel to the steering, which inspires more confidence on both road and track. Skip to Content Skip to Footer. Find a car review Make Make. Model Model. Reviews Home Mazda RX In , the RX-8 received some structural improvements, as well as a reconfigured suspension geometry, which resulted in even more confident handling while reducing interior noise and vibration.
With these newer models especially, the RX-8 is actually a lot more civil than you'd expect. It rides reasonably well and provided you have the engine in one of its relaxed upper gears both engine and road noise are quite muted. It's also not twitchy in the way that you might think a light, low, rather short sports car to be. Most notably, Mazda bolstered the rotary engine with some significant seal and gasket improvements that should extend engine life and reduce oil consumption—always a rotary weakness.
Also for , Mazda rolled out a top-of-the-line R3 package, which includes a sport-tuned suspension, Bilstein shocks, and high-performance tires on inch smoky forged-alloy wheels, plus foam-filled front-suspension crossmembers. Wheels were also upsized. Most RX-8 models include electronic stability control, but even for some recent model years, it was not included on the base Sport.
Grand Touring models fit those who want all the interior comforts, such as automatic climate control, upgraded audio, Bluetooth, and keyless start, plus HID headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. One of the most significant drawbacks of the RX-8 is its thirst for premium. Its EPA city rating is just 16 mpg, but if you drive the RX-8 in a spirited way you're likely to see significantly lower. Research By Category Body Style. Start a Loan Request Form Today! Used Cars. By Make. If you experience this issue on a test drive, be sure to have the vehicle inspected to confirm this is the reason why.
While the car is in the air, the mechanic can also check for fluid leaks, excessive rust or dents and gouges that may have been caused by careless driving over speed bumps or other obstacles. Have the mechanic scan the engine computer for stored codes, too, as these could indicate potential problems.
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