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• One engine, two power outputs
• High-revving 1.3-litre rotary
• Poor fuel economy and emissions – but worth it

Mazda RX-8 power and performance

The Mazda RX-8 only offers one engine, but it comes in two outputs of 192bhp or 231bhp. Confusingly the less powerful engine has more pulling power, yet comes with a five-speed gearbox rather than the six-speed in the higher output version. The 2008 facelift, R3, includes many improvements for reliability and ease of use and if you’re serious about RX-8 ownership is worth seeking out.

Choose the basic, five-speed 192 and you’ll get from 0-62mph in 7.2 seconds, with a top speed of 139mph. The six-port, six-speed 231 can reach 62mph 6.4 seconds and 146mph; the later R3 moved the numbers to 6.3 seconds and 147mph.

The Renesis rotary engine has a characterful buzzy note, revving all the way up to 9,000rpm. It has six gears for a reason; you need to drop down to get peak torque, and change up for economy. The 192 is rather more forgiving and produces peak torque at lower revs. Neither car is particularly economical and average drivers will struggle to get close to 30mpg, particularly when enjoying the motorbike-like noise and sensation of speed and agility.

Renesis engines – what you need to know before buying a used RX-8

1. Oil coolers. There are two oil coolers below the headlights, and these were considered so vulnerable many owners add aftermarket grills. It’s a good sign if they have. The oil cooler pipes can rust, Mazda replaced them on affected cars but that’s over a decade ago. If you see braided lines and upgrades, that suggests the owner’s been paying attention.

2. Look in the service history for compression tests. Correctly done, the test will reveal the health of the engine’s seals and chambers. If you see numbers over 6.9 consistently (there are six figures, three for each rotor) then the engine is probably okay, if it’s below 6.5 then it’s going to need a rebuild soon. Lots of factors can affect this so if the car is running well and has clean exhaust, get your own compression test done and make sure they normalise the figures before making a judgement.

3. Engine wear. Rebuilt engines are around £3,000; if you find a rust-free, well-maintained car in great condition and perfect for you, don’t be afraid of having the work done.

4. Hot and cold starting. Common Renesis running or starting problems can be due to failing coils, incorrect spark plugs, blocked or incorrect catalytic convertor (original cats have high resale value and can often be sold for more than the cost of a quality, legal sports cat which also helps the engine’s reliability), and failure of the vacuum solenoids. Coils and plugs can seem expensive but it’s worth getting the right ones.

5. Don’t move it a short distance. If you must, hold it around 3,500-4,000rpm for a few seconds while you switch it off to minimise fouling or flooding. The RX-8 likes to be warmed up gently (around 10 minutes) before being revved fully, but once warmed up thrives on being taken to the redline occasionally.

What’s a Mazda RX-8 like to drive?

• Lithe, responsive and agile chassis
• Excellent feedback when new
• Could challenge a 2003 BMW M3 on track

Many comparisons were made between the Mazda and its rival the Nissan 350Z as both cars were launched around the same time. While the Mazda can’t compete with the Nissan for outright power, it is superbly balanced and responsive making it less intimidating to drive quickly on twisting roads. Body roll is minimal through bends while ride comfort is very good too – although rough surfaces will soon unsettle it.

Thanks to the responsive steering the RX-8 feels agile through corners and is surefooted too, even in the wet. The Prodrive developed PZ model is more driver-focused than the standard car, with lowered and stiffer suspension, a specially tuned exhaust and a rear spoiler. The facelifted R3 model (launched in August 2008) has a stiffer bodyshell and new sports suspension, along with revised steering which gives a better feel.

It’s even more sporty than the old model, although the ride is a little firm over rough roads, some of that can be attributed to the 19-inch wheels.

As a used car the RX-8 wears its miles well, and will continue to deliver that responsive, accomplished cornering ability as long as it has good tyres, well-maintained brakes and undamaged alignment. It feels low and quick, but not harsh, and is very easy to place on the road.