Mazda RX-8 Coupe (2003-)

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  • Economy

    Value

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Good on the surface, but build quality lets it down. Still 21k+ is cheap but it shows on the interior build.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Low mpg, especially if you want to enjoy driving car and using its revs. Not for cruising. Not sure about long term ownership.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Fantastic drive when pushed. Firm footing.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Great performance. High revs, great road holding, great fun. Fantastic drive. Real pleasure.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    I also have 2 x MX5 and a 3 series BMW. I can not fault Mazda except for the interior build quality of the RX8. Rattles, new seats, annoying and irritating vibrations in dash.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Always lots of comments. Great eye catcher. Titanium grey seriously cool looking car, but its not a Porsche.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very good, especially as a 2+2. But for me, rattles were annoying and in my eyes made it less comfortable. Nice driving position. Easy access for rear occupants. Good boot space.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Still have it. Remote alarm and immobiliser.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Loads of little problems with car, but never with Mazda service. I also have 2xMX5 and a E46 3 Series BMW. Would rate Mazda service over BMW anytime. Especially Pilling Mazda in Milton Keynes. Great service & parts guys, pity about the sales person.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Drinks a lot of oil, but who cares when you've got 8k+ revs ready to go.

    Other

    Loads of little niggles, rattles etc. Several recalls. Failed to start several time, but recall sorted it out. Seat replacement, but didn't solve creaking.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes