Mazda RX-8 SE3P

2004-2012

Mazda RX-8

EnthusiastGood

1.3L Renesis 13B-MSP Rotary212-232 hp3,053-3,131 lbsRWD6-speed manual, 4/6-speed auto

HPDE Overview

The RX-8 is an exceptional chassis held back by its engine's reputation. The Renesis rotary produces 232 hp and revs to 9,000 RPM in the 6-speed manual version. The car weighs just over 3,000 lbs with a front-midship engine placement that provides 52/48 weight distribution. The multi-link suspension at all four corners gives the RX-8 a balance and agility that belies its size. On track, the RX-8 is a delight. It changes direction with the fluidity of a car 500 lbs lighter. The steering is quick, precise, and communicative. The brakes are well-sized for the weight. The car corners flat with minimal body roll, and the rear end is beautifully adjustable with throttle and trail-braking. Many experienced track drivers consider the RX-8 the best-handling car under $15,000. The Renesis engine is the elephant in the room. It is less torquey than the FC/FD turbo rotaries, it consumes oil by design, and it is plagued by compression loss issues that can make a 100,000-mile RX-8 nearly worthless. However, a well-maintained, low-compression-loss example is a track weapon.

Strengths

One of the best chassis in the under-$15,000 price range — balanced, agile, communicativeFront-midship engine layout gives near-perfect weight distribution (52/48)Multi-link suspension at all four corners provides exceptional geometry9,000 RPM redline is viscerally thrilling and uniqueExcellent brakes for the weight — handles track sessions with good padsQuad-door design makes it surprisingly practical for hauling track gear

Weaknesses

Renesis engine loses compression over time — buy with a compression testLow torque means you must keep the engine above 6,000 RPM to be effectiveFuel consumption is very high for a naturally aspirated car (12-16 MPG on track)Oil consumption by design requires constant monitoring on trackEngine rebuilds are expensive and expertise is limited

Why People Love It

The RX-8 has one of the best chassis ever fitted to an affordable car. The balance, the agility, the communicativeness — it rivals cars costing three times as much. On a tight, technical track, a well-driven RX-8 will hang with far more powerful cars because it carries so much corner speed. The 9,000 RPM redline is intoxicating. And because of the engine reputation, you can buy them for shockingly little money.

Why People Hate It

The engine might blow up. That is the fundamental truth of RX-8 ownership. Compression loss is not a question of if but when, and a rebuild costs $3,000-5,000. The fuel consumption is absurd for a 232 hp car. Hot starting problems are maddening. And the car's reputation means resale value is nearly zero, which is great for buyers but terrible for sellers.

Best For

Chassis enthusiasts, rotary lovers, bargain hunters who want an exceptional handling car for minimal money, and drivers who are mechanically inclined.

Not Ideal For

Anyone who wants engine reliability without constant monitoring, people who dislike high fuel costs, or drivers who cannot source rotary engine expertise in their area.