Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2010) (231ps) 4d (2005/05) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Someone who is willing to take a punt on a left field choice. Not many about and not too much of a 'boy racer'.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Kids love it, their friends love it. My wife thinks I am mad and is scared of it, but friends think it is great fun.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - no better value or fun car for the money.

What are you likely to buy next?

Will keep for another year, then likely go for another big V8 coupe - probably a Mercedes CL500.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Looked around and got a feel for the market. Didn't need to spend anything like my budget to get a great selection of cars. Wanted a 2005, as the tax climbs to crazy levels from 2006 model onwards. Car had perfect history, all the receipts and needed nothing doing to it. Easily the best available at that time to my specification and well worth the asking price which is what I paid following a short test drive.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

My kids had outgrown the back seats in my old XK8, so was looking for a spacious coupe, with at least two seats in the back. Looking around, within my budget of £7k, I had come down to a BMW 3 series Coupe, or the Mazda. The BMW was nice, but very normal to drive and common. The Mazda was like no other car I'd driven before, including on several track days. Great fun and cheap as chips.

What was the dealer like?

N/A

What's it like to drive?

Stunning on B roads, comfortable in 6th on the motorway. Took a while to get used to and a world away from driving a burbling V8. I feel as if each drive is an experience and have genuinely take the long route home from the shops on occasion just to prolong the enjoyment.

What's it like to park?

Good visibility and great turning circle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing has gone wrong in 1 year of ownership and 6k miles. Needs an oil top up every 2k miles as expected and have learnt to drive it properly over the year. It is perfect toddling around town, or charging around the B roads near my house. Much more fun than my XK8 and just as fast, although I am more an XK8 type driver at heart.

What's most practical about your car?

The back seats access via the suicide doors is fantastic. The kids love it and people are surprised at how roomy it is.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Love the stereo - great clarity of sound and handy in dash CD changer.