Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2010) (231ps) 4d (2007/07) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
The image of the car is probably a little flashy and stylish. This is at odds with me...! People who know me know that I have it for a love of driving, rather than a fashion accessory.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They like it. I have lent it to family members on a number of occasions and they sing it's praises in terms of the driving experience. They aren't so keen on the fuel and oil consumption...
Would you buy this car again and why?
Probably not, but only because I've experienced it now and would like to try something different. I would recommend it in the right circumstances, though.
What are you likely to buy next?
Something bigger, perhaps an estate.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£8,500
When did you buy the car?
November 2010
Did you get a good deal and why?
It was ok. My car had very low mileage and so commanded a premium over similar-aged models. I was part-exhanging a car which I think I probably accepted an offer which was too low. But that's part-exchanging, isn't it?!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
What was the dealer like?
Very professional. Clearly had a passion for cars and driving.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It is a lovely car to drive. It is not particularly easy to drive smoothly, but with practice and some focus it is perfectly possible to make seamless progress. The engine may lack a bit of torque, but the linear smoothness of its power delivery more than makes up for this. The handling balance is probably the car's strongest asset - it is a joy to pour through a series of challenging bends.
What's it like to park?
Visibility at the rear is a little limited, but it's fine.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Nothing too significant. The odd warning light comes on from time to time, but it's invariably a sensor malfunctioning, rather than something catastrophic...
What's most practical about your car?
Whilst people might think they are a gimmick, the suicide doors are in truth extremely useful. They give a huge opening in to the car which makes transporting large objects in the cabin a doodle.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The Bose stereo system is very good, although it does have a job to compete with quite loud road noise at 50mph+.
