Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2010) (231ps) 4d (2006/56) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like quality, well built cars and also sporty cars.

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

They all love the look, sound and handing. Don't like the poor mpg and high tax.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, I like the look, design and handling. Unique engine.

What are you likely to buy next?

A japanese sports car again or possibly an rx8 r3 facelift version.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,500

When did you buy the car?

February 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

I did my research before purchasing and compared prices both on auction sites. The dealer had this car for a while and was keen to get it off the forecourt. I made a sensible cash offer based on my research and got £500 off the screen price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I lways wanted since they were launched in 2003. Have owned a couple of mazda rx7's previous.

What was the dealer like?

Fair, no hassle approach and honest. Supplied missing part as promissed after purchase.

What's it like to drive?

Despite report the engine uses loads of oil, I haven't found that. It does use oil as all rotary engine cars are designed to but it's not excessive. Check the oil every second fill at the pumps. I find it needs a top up (about 1/2 litre) every 4th fill. Superb engine sound, great handling, very comfy seats, instruments laid out well, long journeys a doddle, plenty of power for a non turbo engine. Xeon headlights make driving a night much better. Traction control very handy for wet weather.

What's it like to park?

Rear view is not too good and make reversing into spaces a bit awkward. Front vision is fine and easy to judge distance.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Mazda parts are expensive and low mpg. But you don't buy sports cars for fuel economy. Parts are much cheaper from auction sites and specialist parts stores. Coil packs are a known fault. Any RX8 over 44k its worth making sure they have been changed. A new set is around £100 but a fairly straight forward DIY job to do. Early cars had problems with starter motors.

What's most practical about your car?

Again, the rear opening "suicide" doors make rear access a doddle. Remote boot and fuel release.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The rear opening doors makes access to the rear seats much easier. Children or small adults can fit in the back no problem. Superb bose sound system with 6 cd multichanger and steering controls.