Considering this is what i want as my first car. I need to be really sure if this a good idea. i have heard alot of bad things about the rotary engine and the car breaking down if its the 2004 edition and so on. I just need some help guys

thank you

know how to drive a manual?

I wouldn't recommend an rx8 or any rx for a first car lol's

haha yes i know that . i mean things like reliablity and fuel economy and stuff like that. i wanna hear from you guys how many mpg you get because thats a big concern also considering i am just a senior in highschool and dont have too much money to blow on gas.

alright, thankyou. Now why dont you recommend it?

I really want you to have this car as your first... as i did for me. I really really wanted it for my first car... to show up at high school all cool and shit. To show off to all my friends...

But im glad i didnt. Now understand this, im not saying your a bad driver... but most (most) people always thrash their first car in an accident. Whether it be with another driver or an immovable object. Ive only been driving for 5 years and im still clean (0 accidents, 1 speeding ticket, and no STD's). But if i ever totaled my nice new RX8, i would be heart broken. I learned in my first car, how to avoid accidents and how to read people on the road.

Most people i went to school with, mommy and daddy bought them their cars. They were BMW's, Mercedes, Acura's, Infinity's, all the expensive shit. NOT ONE OF THEM kept it for long. They all totaled it somehow whether it was their fault or not.

Grab a late 90's car or early 2k's. Grab like an old integra or eclipse. Hell, even grab a Hyundai Tiburon lol. (always wanted one). Get them in stick and learn from there. Get used to it. Get used to driving around IDIOTS ON THE ROAD!


I can't make your decision for you... but im telling you, you will appreciate your second nice new sports car more after your first beater. I drove my 1996 Mazda 626 for 4.5 years (i miss it) until the tranny went. I would have driven it more lol...

GL on your choice.

that is a great advice and i have considered that but i am 17 and been driving for 2 years. Whether it was my parents car or sisters, i drove it whenever i could. i have my license now and i think i am ready for a car. If you can tell me anything else about the car i would appreciate it. Things like which model to get and you know all that stuff!

I second this motion. I've read the FAQ's and everything which ends at around the 2006ish area so it would be awesome to get some input here :) I'm looking at the 2010 and 2009 RX-8's right now, new one.

i drive an 04...nvr seemed to bother me ....bought her when she was 4 years old..now she's 6 :)

Any inputs,advice or suggestions?

Oh...i just thought of something ...DONT get it if its your first car ..

why? Reasons :
1) you will soon post on "how to beat 350z" , "how to beat mustangs" .....which will nvr happened
2) if ur still in skool (considering it is your first car) , gas is not something you can afford for a long term
3) if its your first car , maintainance would be hard if u have no prior knowledge of how to look after a car because rx8 IS a tough car to look after...

Crazy speaks the truth... Ive wrecked three times already... into a pole, i ran something over, and into a Cone. Bought when I was 18 now am 23.

Well it's either rx8 or wrx Sri. Would the Sri be easier to maintain

crazy is right on the money, go get yourself a piece of shit, my 1st car was a mazda 626 as well. you get all you need for a beater car as well as some zoom zoom.

it does not make a bit of difference as to how long you've been driving when it comes to maintaince. your not used to owning a car so your not used to maintaining one. rx 8 is a little bit on the needy side as for maintaince, really a rotary engine us cuz my 7 is a tempermental whore so to speak.

once you have owned a car for awhile go ahead and either run it into the ground then purchase an 8 or buy one and use your 1st as a daily drive

I might be a little bit of a hypocrite about the daily drive cuz I dd my 8 but that's because I can afford the gas and regular maintaince needed on the car

besides you won't really appreciate the rotary until you've drove one of those "six cylinder things"

my 2 cents

i've driven for a while now, i can do my own maintenance (oil change, tire alignment, air filter change, etc) on my corolla 2009 and im a pretty quick learner.

i plan to get the car in about a year or so, so i want to know everything there is to know before i get it.

im not planning to race it or "how do i beat this car" and stuff like that, the gas is no problem for me but is it really that bad as far as mileage goes?

If your talking about the Subaru Sti, then yea it kinda gets better gas mileage our 8's, but if your 17 your insurance will be through the roof on the subaru, most likely more or equal to your car payments. And if your worried about gas, I would pass on the 8 as well.

There are plenty of other sporty cars out there that are easier to maintain and wont cost you an arm or a leg to insure. Acura RSX-S, Lexus IS300, G35 or a 240sx...anyways my .02cents Good Luck

my 7 is horrible bout 150 200 miles per tank depending on my has pedal pressure ; )

my 8 gets about 250 per tank, I drive around downtown savannah a lot and some highway driving.

as for a 04 I have only had my since july of 09 and I really only know about my 7, the motor being different

but my buddy has had his for 2 years or so and has had no problems
that's what pushed me to get one, I also have a backup plan savings account with about 1500 in it just in case

well, if you get one, better hope you parents will help you or that you'll be making alot of money cause rx8's are high maintainence, cost more to bring to a shop, crazy on insurance for young people(i'm 19, got it when i turned ~19), i fill up on gas every week almost(~$80), and you'll really have to take care of these cars and warm them up before driving. jus get a beater like the rest of us, i drove a 626 since i was 15 and still drive it today, XD awsome cars great on gas lol's. why dont you just get a miata or something?

Unless you are making an incredible amount of money for your age, forget about either of the cars you want...

The cars mileage is bad, very bad... I don't care what anyone else says about it, as for the subaru, just a little better. My first car was a 94' probe GT, i was 16, making 400 dollars a week, I could afford that piece of crap. The insurance was $400 a month, gas was .75 a litre. Ok, i got side tracked. Anyways, I have no idea how insurance is in the states as I live in Canada, but if it's like here, it will be bad. If your driving around alot, as I did when i was your age, cruising around, trying to be cool, you will blow though hundreds of dollars on gas a month alone with this car. There is a wealth of information on this forum, search and read, this is not a regular car. You have to take care of it, something many 16, 17 year olds do not understand. I don't wanna sound like a jerk, but i had a dream of owning a sweet car when i was 17, but when i did the research, it was just impossible. Mabye your in a much better financial position than I was, if so...i probably still wouldn't suggest getting the 8 as your first.

^trying to be cool :lol: ... that was me @ 18 (now 23)...my nephew has an 09 & he is what you described exactly. Although he can afford it & he was on the forums 1 year before he bought his. :bigok:

I think its a great car for your first one IF

You take an auto class.
you find someone old school.
You find and associate with members of the club.
You take car of your car.
You take a HDPE course.

If you want to turn the key and go...

This car is not for you.

Oh...i just thought of something ...DONT get it if its your first car ..

why? Reasons :
1) you will soon post on "how to beat 350z" , "how to beat mustangs" .....which will nvr happened
2) if ur still in skool (considering it is your first car) , gas is not something you can afford for a long term
3) if its your first car , maintainance would be hard if u have no prior knowledge of how to look after a car because rx8 IS a tough car to look after...

oh my god oh my god you are absolute right
i'm also 17 and all i was thinking of is how to beat 350 and the mustangs :)
nice

but i have to ask why cant you beat the 350 or the 2009 mustange
i mean the car can handle up to 1000 hp (that if u put 4 rotarys and a turbo and you will have to replace the engine after 5 days)

oh my god oh my god you are absolute right
i'm also 17 and all i was thinking of is how to beat 350 and the mustangs :)
nice

but i have to ask why cant you beat the 350 or the 2009 mustange
i mean the car can handle up to 1000 hp (that if u put 4 rotarys and a turbo and you will have to replace the engine after 5 days)
we never said the car can handle up to 1000hp without some significant modifications.
a stock eight cant beat a stock 350z in a straight line because the low torque.

oh my god oh my god you are absolute right
i'm also 17 and all i was thinking of is how to beat 350 and the mustangs :)
nice

but i have to ask why cant you beat the 350 or the 2009 mustange
i mean the car can handle up to 1000 hp (that if u put 4 rotarys and a turbo and you will have to replace the engine after 5 days)

You might have a few misconceptions about rotaries. Or engines, in general.

If you read this forum, you would think the 2004 manual RX-8 is a lemon. I have 82000 miles on my car and it has run fine without the crap advice one reads here. Premix stuff (never done this), redline once a day (never ever red lined it or even come close to 7000 rpom), change wires every 3-6 months (never did this), blown engines (mine is original) and on and on. I just took the car, followed the manual, did the oil changes and that is it. The only negative is the low mileage at between 13 and 19.

If you read this forum, you would think the 2004 manual RX-8 is a lemon. I have 82000 miles on my car and it has run fine without the crap advice one reads here. Premix stuff (never done this), redline once a day (never ever red lined it or even come close to 7000 rpom), change wires every 3-6 months (never did this), blown engines (mine is original) and on and on. I just took the car, followed the manual, did the oil changes and that is it. The only negative is the low mileage at between 13 and 19.

One post and he makes more sense than anyone here. Why is the 8 not a good first car? It has less power than many Accords and Camrys. Easier to drive than most cars on the road. Learn to take car of your car. Learn to check your oil. For Gods sake you people make this car out to be some wierd exotic or something. It has a rotary engine, that is the only differance from any other car. Its a $8,000 to $12,000 car ('04-'05) come on, you don't have to be some sort of expert to drive this thing! It's not an irreplaceable cassic! It's just a freakin' car. Every time someone asks it it's a good first car you all go nuts telling them no no you are not ready for an 8. Stop already!
Kid, if you want the RX8 go buy it already.
Rant over

agree wit 911sc .... if u want it , get it & deal with it...
when problems comes up, fix it....like an adult...
if u dont like it....dont get it....

04 LEMON (lightning yellow) ..K&N intake..oil change every 3K ..TIENS basic..20% tinted windows ...vertex front....73000 MILES...AND STILL RUNNING STRONG ~ !!

I wouldn't buy an 8 as a first car. Several people have stated insurance, gas, and other little things our 8's need to continue driving. Others have had the car for years with no problems, I have a buddy who bought a 2004 RX8 new and only adds oil when the light comes on and has never had any issues. Granted this is a forum and a lot of the bad things get posted due to modern technology, aka my car is broke and I don't know what to do so I Google it and find this site. There are some really smart people on here that will help you when you get the car and some people will offer their opinion and be wrong. Cruise the site read a lot of threads, the people who are smart on what these cars need to go fast or run without issues have really high post counts and are respected by a lot of people on here for the information and discussions they have.

Now to tell you why I would not get this car now I will list a few reasons some are repeats others haven't been pointed out yet.

1. Your 17 unless your family is a bunch of rotor / gear heads this car can drive you mad when it doesn't work right.
2. Insurance is a small fortune for you no matter what you drive but this is worse.
3. Gas is not cheap remember this car only likes the really good stuff not 87.
4. If and when you need to change the spark plugs, tires ( tires are big epically if your anywhere there is snow these cars are not good in bad weather if your not set up right or not experienced to how they handle on bad roads.) or any other part they are a lot more expensive than most cars.
5. This is a question but. Are you willing to look at the info on things such as premixing, or a certain member here I read even changes his oil twice every change to flush the entire system. All to possible avoid the pitfalls some of these cars have.

Get a cheap car to get through HS and then in a few years, after you have destroyed that car get an 8 if you still want one. That is the best advice I can give but the choice is always your own.

Not like the kid is going to listen to any of us, at that age I was an impulse buyer if i had the money to get one then i would of had one.

So really the only thing I am warning about is the motor itself, the car is by no mean the best drive out there, and I don't revere the car as some exotic.

But trust me when I say this, when the rotary has a mechanical problem its either impossible to fix without pulling some hair out, or a deep wallet.

My 7 has for sure taken a couple of years off of my life

^^^#1- True for any car, if you are not going to repair it yourself.
#2- Is it not classified as a 4 door sedan by Ins. co.?
#3- Yes poor gas milage, but people are using 87, 89, etc. not recomended but it is being done.
#4-How is it that when its convienient the car is great in the snow with snow tires and handles like a dream. Da twisties man! Plugs? See #1
#5-Pre-mix? Word is still out on that one. How many of you really do it. Change oil twice every oil change? Why? Who does it? Do you?
Damn it Alex, you got in my way.

If you can afford it, get it. Insurance will be pricey, gas will be pricey, repairs can be pricey, so on and so forth. It's a great car, handles very well, and is easy to drive. Plan ahead and all will be fine. You do have to think about college though. Where are you going to put it, are you going to have it with you, and how will you pay for it while in school?

As stated before, take some driving classes. Even though the car is easy to drive, inexperience can lead to a world of hurt. Even driving in the rain can yield unexpected results if you're not familiar with rwd.

Drive within your limits no matter what you get. I totaled my first car because i didn't. Boosted and rwd wasn't the problem, it was my inexperience behind the wheel.

Between the MPG and insurance its too expensive.

Be practicle. You need to go to college and have fun not spend money on a car.

Just like many other people here have said, a RX-8 (or any RWD sportscar) is not a safe choice for a first car for a teenager. Example of what can happen
(http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7226039) The article is incorrect, the people killed were not men, but two 16 year old boys. The car was a Honda S2000 (similar in power to a RX-8).

OK, Razz has over 12,000 posts. He's been here almost as long as I have, but he owns one. I'm wrong. Don't buy it kid, you'll shoot your eye out.

Damn it Alex, you got in my way.

Oh shit.. my bad

:banghead:

^^^#1- True for any car, if you are not going to repair it yourself.
#2- Is it not classified as a 4 door sedan by Ins. co.?
#3- Yes poor gas milage, but people are using 87, 89, etc. not recomended but it is being done.
#4-How is it that when its convienient the car is great in the snow with snow tires and handles like a dream. Da twisties man! Plugs? See #1
#5-Pre-mix? Word is still out on that one. How many of you really do it. Change oil twice every oil change? Why? Who does it? Do you?
Damn it Alex, you got in my way.

#1 True but there is a lot of people that fix piston engines and few that understand rotor.
#2 It is by most Ins. co. and so is a BMW 335i but not all 4door sedans have the same Insurance prices.
#3 I would be interested to know the numbers on not using premium gas and what other problems have occurred to those engines.
#4 Its not a convenience thing as much as an experience thing, if you grew up in Buffalo New York or some other snow land its not as big deal probably.
#5 Like I said are you willing to do the research and make a decision one way or the other. It might help or it might not but some of the things make more sense than others or don't cost to much to protect your investment.

Buy the car if you want, it is fun when everything is good. I just remember how I was at that age and most of my friends as well. I had an 87 RX7 around that time and I had more days where I was trying to fix it from flooding issues to keeping tires on it than I did driving it. Granted that car became a favorite of mine down the road when I had the knowledge and time to keep it running right. At 17 I had sports, girls, hanging out and a job that seemed to get in the way. Even the new RX8 there are problems sometimes. Can you live with having your car in the shop for an extended time, do you have a second car to get to school work etc. Yes Mazda will give you a rental car to drive if your car is under warranty but (I could be wrong on this and it may be different.) you have to be 21 at most rental places to drive their cars.

Just like many other people here have said, a RX-8 (or any RWD sportscar) is not a safe choice for a first car for a teenager. Example of what can happen
(http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7226039) The article is incorrect, the people killed were not men, but two 16 year old boys. The car was a Honda S2000 (similar in power to a RX-8).

One more thing and then I won't say anything more. This whole forum is all about RWD>FWD, well, not all of it but you know what I mean, and now this? RWD is not safe? Ever turn your wheels at a stop in a FWD car and then floor it? Yeah boat loads of fun. And that video? That can happen with any car. If you're stupid and careless.

Anybody else notice we haven't heard from the OP? I think we scared him away. All the better, he would have hurt himself if he bought the 8.

well, i guess i just give up. cause if/when it is crashed or tashed, it just means another parts car for anything i would need in the future, so go on an get 'er man ;D

One more thing and then I won't say anything more. This whole forum is all about RWD>FWD, well, not all of it but you know what I mean, and now this? RWD is not safe? Ever turn your wheels at a stop in a FWD car and then floor it? Yeah boat loads of fun. And that video? That can happen with any car. If you're stupid and careless.

I agree that RWD > FWD, but having ones first car being a RWD sportscar is an accident waiting to happen (not trying to be mean, just looking out for his and others safety). My first car was RWD (a 1984 volvo 240 manual - a very slow 4 door sedan), and I have own more RWD cars in my life than FWD. FWD is typically easier to control in snow or ice than RWD, and therefore safer in those conditions.

A large part of avoiding accidents like above is driving skill and not being stupid and/or careless. Most teenagers don't have enough wheel time to have the skill and are careless behind the wheel (why do you think insurance costs so much more for young drivers). I am over 30 years old, have had many RWD sports cars, and completed racing experience classes such as Justin Bell GT, and I still know I have much to learn.

I agree that RWD > FWD, but having ones first car being a RWD sportscar is an accident waiting to happen (not trying to be mean, just looking out for his and others safety). My first car was RWD (a 1984 volvo 240 manual - a very slow 4 door sedan), and I have own more RWD cars in my life than FWD. FWD is typically easier to control in snow or ice than RWD, and therefore safer in those conditions.

A large part of avoiding accidents like above is driving skill and not being stupid and/or careless. Most teenagers don't have enough wheel time to have the skill and are careless behind the wheel (why do you think insurance costs so much more for young drivers). I am over 30 years old, have had many RWD sports cars, and completed racing experience classes such as Justin Bell GT, and I still know I have much to learn.

I can't help but disagree with this statement, based on my experience.

I don't buy the idea that age has any bearing on what kind of car a person can own. If a person is mature enough to learn how to drive, does not drive recklessly, can actually afford the car (which usually requires ALOT of hard work if it's going to be a first car), and realizes that SPORTS CARS need to be respected, then they are mature enough to own an RX8 as a car.

RX8 was (and is) the first car I ever bought myself, I learned how to drive stick on my Dad's BMW M Roadster, and I have never gotten a speeding ticket, nor have I ever gotten in an accident (I realize this one is dependent on other drivers as well).

I realize that I am extremely fortunate to own this car at my age, and I treat it with care and respect. I just wanted to make the point that while MOST 18 year olds are not mature enough to own a car like this, some of us are.

Well it's either rx8 or wrx Sri. Would the Sri be easier to maintain

If you get a WRX STI as your first car, you will die in it.

The 8 is relatively tame for a sports car and very easy to control, so it's not too bad for an inexperienced driver, IF you don't drive stupid, and at your age that's a big IF. Sports cars in general are not the best option for a first car.

I know how important it is to have a cool car at your age. But be realistic. The WRX will get away from you and the 8 would be too expensive to drive due to gas, insurance, and repair costs. I assume that you would be looking at 8s that are older/higher mileage and don't have anything but the engine warranty, which could leave you hitching rides if something goes wrong. They aren't cheap to fix.

Wait until you are out in the world paying your own bills and making good money before getting a sports car.

I hate to say this but..get a Civic Si. Much cheaper to own, still gives you bragging rights around high school, and not such a heartbreaking loss when you total it.

I don't buy the idea that age has any bearing on what kind of car a person can own. If a person is mature enough to learn how to drive, does not drive recklessly, can actually afford the car...

You're contradicting yourself, the vast majority of teenagers don't meet any of those conditions.

Even if you are an exception, you are an exception because most teenagers aren't like that. I've been a teenager, I know how tempting it is to get a cool, fast car, and I also know how bad of an idea it usually is. I had friends in high school who were maimed, disfigured, and killed by stupid driving.

RX-8 was my first car that I personally purchased. I did fine with it, did the regular maintenance etc etc.

EDIT if you are concerned about safety and suck at driving - get DSC and keep it on. It may just save your life one day.

Bought it for my first car, i didnt even know stick. Learned in a couple days, very smooth and easy to drive, just keep up with the maintenance and the gas wont be cheap.

Strong with the WIN - this thread is

dude if you aren't stupid buy the rx8. I got my 09 gt when I graduated highschool and I haven't done anything stupid to wreck it. That is because I got a lot of my driving practice done with my old car that I had for 2 years.

But if you think you are mature enough to know how to handle a sports car and when and when not to go fast on it then go for it. I love it and I test drove every single other sports car out there but the rx8 is the one that stood out the most.

if you still are not sure, go test drive one. You will be happy

btw mine gets 16/23 mpg

Just by the WRX SRI comment you need to do more research. Nuff said.

For other readers considering an rx8 and have done their homework. I will say that I started with a 98 Mazda 626 and it is a fantastic car to start with. You can beat the piss out of them and they don't really care (minus the transmission). You can put the spark plugs anywhere you want. Oil doesn't get eaten. Gas doesn't cost anything compared.
Add tint, 18's, drop it, loose the emblems and you have the hit of highschool. Need more edge add bass and an intake. Car gets loud and sounds nifty as all get out (still slow as piss though sorry)
Need more convincing?
Your backpack is a door open away instead of two doors and crawling into the backseat and back out.
Maybe pictures will help.
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1795/2361/4486180084_medium.jpg
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1795/2361/4486180080_medium.jpg

Seriously though start with a different car. I was just advertising the mazda family.

If you just want to be the big man on campus for cheap get a used Solstice GXP or Saturn Sky Turbo and de-badge it. You can find an 06 or 07 used one for 14-17k.

Saturn sky's are nice, you would have to deal with 2 seats though, and, in high school like i am, i know only having 2 seats would blow.

Lets get one thing out of the way. I am not one of those kids. My 3.0 gpa and working at a restaurant speaks for itself. I am not reckless or stupid like the other teens who get the car for speed and drifting. I just love the rx8 and heard alot of good things about it so i really cant see myself getting another car then that. Sure its cool as shit having a sports car in highschool but its not all aboout that for me.

Now i have a question: why is it so hard to maintain the car. is it the rotary or what. Gas is not as much of a problem. I just dont want the car breaking down alot and spending too much money. so what would be the best way to avoid that, other then not getting it.

Just get the 8. :bigok:

I am not one of those kids. My 3.0 gpa and working at a restaurant speaks for itself.

whoop-de-fucking-do.

Just buy something older, cheap and sporty. You dont want to be a slave to your car -- maintenance really does add up on this thing. You should be doing smarter things with your money than buying an RX8 if you're so "responsible".

Buy a Civic.

the rotary is fine....its the "everything" else that u might be aware of...coils , cats , transmission grinding , flooding , clutch paddle snapping , water in your tail lights , idling ,weird noises , cel lights , coolent lights , engine oil light , ABS light ....and other little little stuffs .....

but i havent heard the 8 breaking down on anyone yet ..like majorly...most of them drive home safe and post on the forum....

if u love the car, get it .....if there's problem , there is a search button.....if u need help , post help....want aftermarket stuff ? google+ebay+ Japanparts.com+ Mazdaparts.com+Mazmart......

edit :
suggestion from me ....i want the RX8 to stay unique.... SO YOU , get a civic & get good mileage in that (yo ..VTEC just kicked in yo!)

THEREFORE, one less 8 on the road makes it more rare for mines !(not that lightning yellow isnt rare enough) ....but if ur NOT in SanJose CA , then i get it :D...i dont care

I think you're seriously underestimating the cost of ownership for this car.

Call and get an insurance quote, see what that will run you on an RX-8. Having four doors means next to nothing, they know it's a sports car, and at your age that means insane insurance rates.

Gas will run you close to twice as much as with many other cars, maybe more than that if you use premium gas, which you should. Frequent oil changes are a must, and you don't want to just go to JiffyLube, it's best to have it done at the stealership, which is more expensive but might help keep the engine warranty, if it isn't already voided due to lack of documented maintenance.

You can't just take it to any old repair shop, you need to go to a Mazda stealership or a specialist rotary shop, no one else knows how to work on these cars, and in either case they won't be cheap on repairs. They need frequent tire rotations (about every 6k-7k miles), plug and coil changes about every 30k miles, engine trouble could mean disaster if warranty coverage is denied (which is all too possible if it doesn't have a spotless maintenance history with documentation), parts are quite expensive, the transmission can be somewhat fragile and is very expensive to replace, if you flood it too many times (very possible for a new rotary owner with an '04) you could end up needing to replace the cat prematurely, etc., etc.

Just because you can afford to buy it doesn't necessarily mean that you can afford to own it. Don't say you haven't been warned. I don't think that the 8 is a particularly dangerous sports car for a teenager if you really insist on a sports car, but it is not cheap to own.

Gas will run you close to twice as much as with many other cars, maybe more than that if you use premium gas, which you should.

twice ...is an understatement !

twice ...is an understatement !

Not to mention a case of oil only lasts two oil changes $40 for normal stuff $90 for the good stuff.

$80 per case for pre-mix

$25 spark plugs (each)

$40 per tank of premium and it lasts less than 200 miles

What else is worth mentioning?

jus let the high schooler get the car and find out the hard way just how hard it is to own an rx-8. If the way he describes himself is true, let him find out for him self... we all already warned him so if he still stubbornly gets it, it's his problem. I know what it's like wanting a car sooo bad but ending up with something else. Heck I wanted a 350z sooo bad when they came out so I just drove my 626 all the way till the last part of my freshman year in college. I never even thought of rushing into buying a Z because i would be heartbroken if anything happened to it, but here i am today with an rx8 and I'm still very happy about this car as my second car. You never know man, you might end up in another car and luv it, but just get something more practical. Are you even paying for everything yourself? can even working at a resturaunt or whatever i don't know if you can really afford an 8...

Lets get one thing out of the way. I am not one of those kids. My 3.0 gpa and working at a restaurant speaks for itself. I am not reckless or stupid like the other teens who get the car for speed and drifting. I just love the rx8 and heard alot of good things about it so i really cant see myself getting another car then that. Sure its cool as shit having a sports car in highschool but its not all aboout that for me.

Now i have a question: why is it so hard to maintain the car. is it the rotary or what. Gas is not as much of a problem. I just dont want the car breaking down alot and spending too much money. so what would be the best way to avoid that, other then not getting it.

im 21 i have a 3.7 and i run my own business as well as tutor ;) kekeke

rx8 maintenance is a killer as well. here's the basics per year

oil changes $25*4= $100
spare oil to top off $4*4=$16
spark plugs $80
coils, depending mileage you purchase in $100
In my case $40 gas/week* 52= $2080
my insurance ~$1000/yr

=$3376 annually. This is not including flooding tows, melted cats, tires, compression loss/overhaul and mods :ylsuper:

VS my buddies 94 Accord coupe

oil changes $25*3= $75
gas @ $20/wk* $1040
insurance $600/yr

= $1750. (almost half!!!!)not many surprises with the honda. Recenly he had a misfire but honda's are common knowledge and was able to get it fixed at a mechanic for $125 labor and parts combined. Good luck finding a rotary expert to fix your car if you have an issue.
----not to mention mods are dirt cheap :cussing:

im 16 and i got my 8 in september. first car and i love it.

rx8 maintenance is a killer as well. here's the basics per year

oil changes $25*4= $100
spare oil to top off $4*4=$16
spark plugs $80
coils, depending mileage you purchase in $100
In my case $40 gas/week* 52= $2080
my insurance ~$1000/yr


How is insurance so cheap?

oil changes = 100 makes sense
rest of the stuff = 200 makes sense
gas = 2080 makes sense
insurance = 1000/yr?

my insurance on a Corolla 2009 under my parents name is like 1000/yr, i would imagine with the rx=8 it would be a lot more ... oh and financed for 48 months for me is 790 a month does that make sense?

Now i have a question: why is it so hard to maintain the car. is it the rotary or what. Gas is not as much of a problem. I just dont want the car breaking down alot and spending too much money. so what would be the best way to avoid that, other then not getting it.

Ur like me. No matter what advice, being young and knowing what you want, having that tunnel vision, there is nothing any of us can do to change that. If you dont buy an 8, your gonna buy another sports car. I would much rather you in an 8 then in another sports car for many reasons.

#1 Its waaaay better then the rest. Rx8 REPRESENT!
#2 Because of its handling, you will have a better chance avoiding accidents caused by others, or even correct fuck ups caused by you.
#3 Its safe with the million air bags it has and its low center of gravity makes it hard to flip.
#4 Get it with Dynamic Stability Control because as stated before, it might save your life one day.

Read these forums so you can get a careful understanding of what the car needs. Its a drivers car. Not a car you drive.
Understand the difference between the two and you will be fine.

Things to remember:
- You have 8 years, 100k mile warranty on the engine. Begins at year of car.
- Every other fill up, check your oil. If its halfway empty, top it off. This creates good habit. Keep a bottle of 5w-30 MINERAL OIL in the trunk.
- Buy snow tires if you get snow by you. Believe me, its mandatory. Just today i pulled over by my godmothers house to drop something off.. Sure as shit, i got stuck.
- Open a savings account specifically for your baby. Im not saying the car is a pot full of problems, but sometimes shit happens. Be prepared. This is for every car. Keep $1500 in it at all times just for emergency purposes.
- Enjoy the car.

Good luck kid.

Buy a Civic.

Oh god please dont.

Just by the WRX SRI comment you need to do more research. Nuff said.

For other readers considering an rx8 and have done their homework. I will say that I started with a 98 Mazda 626 and it is a fantastic car to start with. You can beat the piss out of them and they don't really care (minus the transmission). You can put the spark plugs anywhere you want. Oil doesn't get eaten. Gas doesn't cost anything compared.
Add tint, 18's, drop it, loose the emblems and you have the hit of highschool. Need more edge add bass and an intake. Car gets loud and sounds nifty as all get out (still slow as piss though sorry)
Need more convincing?
Your backpack is a door open away instead of two doors and crawling into the backseat and back out.
Maybe pictures will help.
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1795/2361/4486180084_medium.jpg
http://memimage.cardomain.com/ride_images/1/1795/2361/4486180080_medium.jpg

Seriously though start with a different car. I was just advertising the mazda family.

lol... i find so many rx8 owners coming from a 626. Those may be family econo-cars, but man, they sure had the zoom zoom. It handled better then most family sedans back in the day. I really do miss that car so much. You couldnt kill that engine if you wanted too. The sensors (o2 and mass air flow) were a pain in the ass, but you could really make that car shine. Mine was a 1996, black, 20% tints, 16 inch after market aluminum rims from pep boys lol, Pirelli's 225/50's R16's, sporty seat covers and my favorite, after market sound system. 2x Infinity 5x7's, 2x Infinity 6x9's, 2x 12" MTX subs with 1000watt amplifier with built in crossover... shit set off car alarms blocks away. :evil_laug

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r11/crazyjek/beforeandafter.jpg


In college, if i had a long long break in between classes, i would bring a blanket and pillow in the car that day and take a nap in the back seat with the help of my trusty portable DvD player. I watched Jaws so many damn times... and Gone in 60 Seconds was a mandatory. The good times i had in that car back in high school. Believe me... 4 door sedans with a loud system > any sports car when it comes to high school good times. It was a party in a car. We be rollin 4 cars deep everywhere with like 16 people... hahaha.





im 21 i have a 3.7 and i run my own business as well as tutor ;) kekeke

As well as play PC games...?

I play a lot of StarCraft :)

So many people on these forums are jackasses, telling you buy a Civic and shit. And you won't be a SLAVE to your RX8.

My RX8 was my second car, but I bought it when I was a senior in high school. I don't have much of a problem paying for the gas, its not great, but its not AWFUL. Its a little worse than what you expect from a sports car. Its really fun to drive, not that difficult, and the transmission is way friendly. Plus, its not that fast haha.

I say, if your a responsible kid, and can handle topping off on oil between changes and can afford the gas, buy the fucking car. You won't regret it.

Hope I helped!

So many people on these forums are jackasses, telling you buy a Civic and shit. And you won't be a SLAVE to your RX8.

My RX8 was my second car, but I bought it when I was a senior in high school. I don't have much of a problem paying for the gas, its not great, but its not AWFUL. Its a little worse than what you expect from a sports car. Its really fun to drive, not that difficult, and the transmission is way friendly. Plus, its not that fast haha.

I say, if your a responsible kid, and can handle topping off on oil between changes and can afford the gas, buy the fucking car. You won't regret it.

Hope I helped!

I'm buying the car regardless, but is insurance really 1000/yr like some people say it is? It's like 1000/yr for my Corolla 2009 ... so I imagine somewhere like 5x that for RX8 for me?

nope. My insurance company considers it a "four door coupe" so insurance is ridiculously cheap. I pay around $1300 a year with the good student discount. Which you should get with a 3.0

I wouldn't recommend an rx8 or any rx for a first car lol's
my first car was a 85 rx-7 gsl-se never had a problem but then again i know how to work on and take care of a car myself.

Yikes! I can't believe how long this thread is in just a day. And such negativity. I feel like I should push my RX-8 off the nearest cliff before it murders me in my sleep.

Yeah...the 8 is probably riskier on maintenance and/or odd problems than a Civic. Not necessarily the car Consumer Reports would choose...although in some years it does get on their "recommended" list.

If you look at required maintenance, it's not much different from other cars. Most of us change oil 3K rather than what the schedule says, but that's pretty common choice. Oil use between changes is not a big deal...less than what cars routinely burned when I was in my youth. Spark plugs get changed at 36K or so, rather than 60K or more like a lot of other cars today. (Vs 12K in the old days.) But you can change them yourself, unlike some cars (like a V-6 Camry) where it's a dealer job. And there's no timing belt to replace every 60K. Don't forget the 8 year, 100K engine core warranty, either.

Thus far, at a bit over 30K on mine, my only negatives have been the lack of interior storage space (small console, etc.) and fear of flooding.

Any car has a risk of being a lemon. And buying any used sports car carries somewhat higher risk...even if it's putting up with your mother shaking her head about how impractical you were.

Ken

no question... get the 8, it was my first car and If you can afford it... get it.

I pay an arm and a leg for mine annually at like $512 a month for a payment and about 3,500 a year for insurance alone then add in + gas + maintenence + mods :D + living the college life and I only work 4 months a year. I know how to budget very efficiently...


and if I could teach you one thing it would be...


Make your own decision, people suggesting to buy lower end cars just don't want to see a young teen drive something they have acheived much later in life... Society is full of jealousy. PERIOD.

At least if it was me I sure as hell wouldn't spend $5000-$10,000 of my own money on something I didn't enjoy to get in everyday. It's not like you NEED a car in highschool, but its a WANT, and if you want something then do it the "right" way.

Note: Looking at your financials is crucial both long-term and short term.

and as for that comment on you crashing your car if you buy an 8, #1 drive smart. #2 id rather crash and 8 and live then a beater and die.

.... you only live once.

I play a lot of StarCraft :)

haha i play it from time to time, used to be in it big in high school now i play it about twice a week

hit me up if ya wanna play

My 400hp GTO's payments are 150$ cheaper per month then the payments were on my RX8.

and as for that comment on you crashing your car if you buy an 8, #1 drive smart. #2 id rather crash and 8 and live then a beater and die.

.... you only live once.[/quote]

I agree with Spence. Don't buy something you'll be disappointed with from day 1. Get the 8.

Okay so I just called my company and as long as I put it under my parents name, they consider it a 4 door coupe I would be paying $2000 CAD a year so it's actually pretty much the same amount as I'm paying for the Corolla 2009.

Finance = $800 CAD
Insurance = $200 CAD
Gas = $180 CAD
Other = $20 CAD

Roughly $1200 a month for the RX-8 R2 2010.

My 400hp GTO's payments are 150$ cheaper per month then the payments were on my RX8.

...and?

Wow guys, if he wants an 8 don't discourage him. The 8 is no more maintenance than any car, check the oil and fill it with premium gas. Problems solved. Buy an 07+ and have worry free driving.
So many on this forum act as though a rotary engine is some sort of rocket science - fact is it's quite the opposite, it's simpler than piston engines and a blast to drive while keeping practicality.

It doesn't cost that much to own once you buy it, gas is NOT that expensive people nor is insurance. He will likely be on his parents insurance policy so put it in one of their names and problem solved.

Sheesh we don't own Lambo's here people.

Thank you ! ^

...and?

Exactly - his GTO insurance is cheaper because spare parts are cheaper it's domestic vs. import. My Sky's insurance is about half of my 8's insurance despite being a two door convertible with more HP and a higher MSRP. It's simple - parts for the 8 are expensive therefore insurance is high.

HP typically means nothing for a car's insurance cost.

I'm with you Zach

Exactly - his GTO insurance is cheaper because spare parts are cheaper it's domestic vs. import. My Sky's insurance is about half of my 8's insurance despite being a two door convertible with more HP and a higher MSRP. It's simple - parts for the 8 are expensive therefore insurance is high.

HP typically means nothing for a car's insurance cost.

I'm with you Zach

Lol shit.. I was saying that cause my sports car was cheaper then my 4door car that was of the same year.

Also you are nuts if you think GTO parts are cheap, it's not a Fbody, it's a Holden. One headlight goes for 800ish New, used seats go for 900$ for the set. The parts cost so much most places just toal the car if it has been wrecked.

Anyways back to the toppic. Are you willing to spend that much money each month? and for how long? I know driving a beater might sound sucky, but some times it's worth it if you are putting $1,200 in your pocket each month. When you do get like 10k you can go drop a nice down on a car and have low payments to deal with, and you might never get upside down if for some reason you need to sell.

It might be too late for that.

Lol shit.. I was saying that cause my sports car was cheaper then my 4door car that was of the same year.

Also you are nuts if you think GTO parts are cheap, it's not a Fbody, it's a Holden. One headlight goes for 800ish New, used seats go for 900$ for the set. The parts cost so much most places just toal the car if it has been wrecked.

Anyways back to the toppic. Are you willing to spend that much money each month? and for how long? I know driving a beater might sound sucky, but some times it's worth it if you are putting $1,200 in your pocket each month. When you do get like 10k you can go drop a nice down on a car and have low payments to deal with, and you might never get upside down if for some reason you need to sell.

It might be too late for that.

I understand that it doesn't make sense but neither do insurance companies lol.

As for the car, I still say he should get an 8. Why drive a beater when you can drive your dream car? I wanted an RX-8 since I read about them on Howstuffworks.com in 2001. Finally in 2008 I got one, then another in 09 :icon_tup:

If he wants an RX-8 we should be here to answer his questions about the car not to say go buy a civic...

I think you guys are forgetting that he's a junior in high school. That means in a little over a year he's going to have a drastic drop in disposable income, whether he goes to college or moves out and starts paying his own bills. Think about it, he's basing his decision on how much money he has in his pocket now, that's not going to last unless he wants to keep living at home in his 20s.

And he'll be buying an older car that is out of warranty or soon will be. The gas and maintenance will be bad enough (say what you will, but the 8 *is* more expensive to take care of than a beater car), and he'll soon be one minor wreck or breakdown from having a broken car that he can't afford to fix.

Sorry for the negativity, but be realistic. Would you really want him to get an 8 now, only to have to sell it at a huge loss to get a PoS in a couple of years? Better to drive something fairly nice but inexpensive to maintain, gas up, and repair now, and then get the 8 later.

Maybe he can get the 8 now and be fine, I'd love that to be the case, he may become a lifelong rotary lover and we need more of those. But he needs to hear some realism, because it doesn't seem like he realizes that the money he's pocketing now is going to be flying out of his pocket for other things soon.

I think you guys are forgetting that he's a junior in high school. That means in a little over a year he's going to have a drastic drop in disposable income, whether he goes to college or moves out and starts paying his own bills. Think about it, he's basing his decision on how much money he has in his pocket now, that's not going to last unless he wants to keep living at home in his 20s.

And he'll be buying an older car that is out of warranty or soon will be. The gas and maintenance will be bad enough (say what you will, but the 8 *is* more expensive to take care of than a beater car), and he'll soon be one minor wreck or breakdown from having a broken car that he can't afford to fix.

Sorry for the negativity, but be realistic. Would you really want him to get an 8 now, only to have to sell it at a huge loss to get a PoS in a couple of years? Better to drive something fairly nice but inexpensive to maintain, gas up, and repair now, and then get the 8 later.

Maybe he can get the 8 now and be fine, I'd love that to be the case, he may become a lifelong rotary lover and we need more of those. But he needs to hear some realism, because it doesn't seem like he realizes that the money he's pocketing now is going to be flying out of his pocket for other things soon.

Yeah you are right. Dude should just get a 10 speed bicycle. Money was created to be spent so spend it and help stimulate my 401k please.

I think you guys are forgetting that he's a junior in high school. That means in a little over a year he's going to have a drastic drop in disposable income, whether he goes to college or moves out and starts paying his own bills. Think about it, he's basing his decision on how much money he has in his pocket now, that's not going to last unless he wants to keep living at home in his 20s.

And he'll be buying an older car that is out of warranty or soon will be. The gas and maintenance will be bad enough (say what you will, but the 8 *is* more expensive to take care of than a beater car), and he'll soon be one minor wreck or breakdown from having a broken car that he can't afford to fix.

Sorry for the negativity, but be realistic. Would you really want him to get an 8 now, only to have to sell it at a huge loss to get a PoS in a couple of years? Better to drive something fairly nice but inexpensive to maintain, gas up, and repair now, and then get the 8 later.

Maybe he can get the 8 now and be fine, I'd love that to be the case, he may become a lifelong rotary lover and we need more of those. But he needs to hear some realism, because it doesn't seem like he realizes that the money he's pocketing now is going to be flying out of his pocket for other things soon.

I got my 8 as a Senior and since then, it's been my motivation to get higher paying jobs, be more successful and just have more money; mostly for the 8. If anything, have a sports car at a young age is a motivation to work harder. If you love the car - which i'm sure he will - you're willing to work and hard as necessary to keep it around.

I say you get a scooter for now..

Okay so I just called my company and as long as I put it under my parents name, they consider it a 4 door coupe I would be paying $2000 CAD a year so it's actually pretty much the same amount as I'm paying for the Corolla 2009.

Finance = $800 CAD
Insurance = $200 CAD
Gas = $180 CAD
Other = $20 CAD

Roughly $1200 a month for the RX-8 R2 2010.

$1200 a month!? Dude keep your Corolla and buy a house.

1200 bucks a month

:lol:

My 400hp GTO's payments are 150$ cheaper per month then the payments were on my RX8.

Lol shit.. I was saying that cause my sports car was cheaper then my 4door car that was of the same year.

Also you are nuts if you think GTO parts are cheap, it's not a Fbody, it's a Holden. One headlight goes for 800ish New, used seats go for 900$ for the set. The parts cost so much most places just toal the car if it has been wrecked.



Quit talking about your silly dumbmestic GTO heavy pig.
Troll.

$1200 a month!? Dude keep your Corolla and buy a house.

I already live in a full sized house ... it's my parents house but they are leaving it for me because they moved to B.C. due to work.

minus the finance payments, does everything else seem normal?

I got my 07 rx8 out of high school right before college. I daily drive it and get around 17 mpg. It is a sports car- be prepared to pay the bucks for maintenance, premium gas, and pricey insurance.

I keep it immaculate. Lots to learn and lots to love.

I just want to say thankyou guys for all the help. Just one more question: what are some maintenances that need to be done by any 8 owner. so far oil change is the only thing I know to be honest.
Thank you so much.

I just want to say thankyou guys for all the help. Just one more question: what are some maintenances that need to be done by any 8 owner. so far oil change is the only thing I know to be honest.
Thank you so much.

Oil change every 3000 miles
Tire rotation every 5000 miles
Spark, coil, wire, etc changes every 30000 miles.

What do you mean etc haha

Coils, spark plugs, wires, engine mounts

Dunno why I didnt just say that and said etc lol, engine mounts not so much though, main things would be the first 3.

Lets get one thing out of the way. I am not one of those kids. My 3.0 gpa and working at a restaurant speaks for itself. I am not reckless or stupid like the other teens who get the car for speed and drifting. I just love the rx8 and heard alot of good things about it so i really cant see myself getting another car then that. Sure its cool as shit having a sports car in highschool but its not all aboout that for me.

Now i have a question: why is it so hard to maintain the car. is it the rotary or what. Gas is not as much of a problem. I just dont want the car breaking down alot and spending too much money. so what would be the best way to avoid that, other then not getting it.
How does 3.0 speak for itself? I have a 4.1 and im still 40th in my class.

How does 3.0 speak for itself? I have a 4.1 and im still 40th in my class.

loooooooooooooooooooool you do realize GPA only goes up to a maximum of 4.0 ... rofl

loooooooooooooooooooool you do realize GPA only goes up to a maximum of 4.0 ... rofl

Rofl at your rofl. It goes to 4.3 in a lot of areas where 4.3 = A+

A lot of colleges also have a 4.3 system.
Next time don't rofl before you waffle your research.

Here's my story. I'm willing to share this to you guys. HOPE YOU READ IT guys and give me some "ADVICE" THanks by the way!

Okay. So i've been reading this thread from very start. By the way i am new hear also. I live in Toronto, I'm 23 and i graduated from college and currently working now. (part time 8 hours a day). I'm also planning this to get as my 1st car. Around next Fall which is Sept 2010. I'm still getting confused on buying an 07 or 08 rx-8 or getting a eclipse GT.
They are almost in the same price range/budget for me.

Here's my plan conclusions so for.

1). I already know about the faQ about the gas that it is expensive to drive it and i think premium gas here is i think $1++ per litre. But since i'm working, im not gonna have my own problem with this.

2). I have heard about this flooding issues and cold start things and Rev it up to redline or stuff like that, So now i am aiming on getting an 07-08 rx-8 which i hope doe's not have this problems anymore which i think is mostly common with the 04-05 models.

3). About the rotary engine, I have head that once the engine reaches to 160,000 KM then it's time to change the engine or usually this is the range where the 04-05 rx'8s break down.
So my solution for this is getting a 07 or 08 with below 30KM on it's clock.

4). Continuing with the rotary engine i know that it has to be serviced at the mazda dealership if something goes wrong with the engine. Well, What's my choice? then just go to he mazda dealership to be 100% confident with yourself that these mechanics know what they're dealing with.

5). Insurance. I have already got a quote from belair direct which is 5200 a year i think. That would be 440 a month for an 08 (Im 23 years old). My brother will be sharing $100 with me monthly so this wouldn't be a problem with me.

6). Im Planning to pay the car Cash!! my budget would be 15k clean at september 2010 (This will change if i got full time at my job which i am part time by now). And i hope there will be good deals by sept. 2010 for an 07-08 rx'8 by that time
Okay the last but not the least. You know why i changed my mind of getting an Rx-8? It is BECAUSE of the Freaking sound System (Stock Stereo) can't play freaking mp3 files or songs burned from a computer to a CD!!

NOTE: I have read the section here about the mp3 audio link mp3 adapter but i don't trust those bastards at e-bay. I wish at a mazda dealership they will have the part that will change the factory stereo to a stereo that could play and read mp3 music cd's. (By the way i have already downloaded the 07 Brochure and it has already their the part number for the stereo to be exchanged) I just Hope by the time i purchase it is that they still have it.

So now for the summary of this. Can you convince me now for getting the Rx-8 and not changing my mind to get an 06, 07 or an 08 eclipse??

Here's my story. I'm willing to share this to you guys. HOPE YOU READ IT guys and give me some "ADVICE" THanks by the way!

If the sound system won't play your music, why in the world would you want someone to talk you into an RX-8?

If you truly believe that the engine will not last indefinitely, why would you want one? FWIW, there's no magic number where engines have failed...so it would be a constant worry...always wondering if today is the day.

In your post, you haven't said what there is about the RX-8 that appeals to you. Most of these posts begin with "I've loved the RX-8 ever since I hit puberty, but..."

Back away from the 8 and get something that you really want.

Ken

Wow guys, if he wants an 8 don't discourage him. The 8 is no more maintenance than any car, check the oil and fill it with premium gas. Problems solved. Buy an 07+ and have worry free driving.
So many on this forum act as though a rotary engine is some sort of rocket science - fact is it's quite the opposite, it's simpler than piston engines and a blast to drive while keeping practicality.

It doesn't cost that much to own once you buy it, gas is NOT that expensive people nor is insurance. He will likely be on his parents insurance policy so put it in one of their names and problem solved.

Sheesh we don't own Lambo's here people.

no prob with 07' + rotary?

Seroiusly.. I wouldn't get an 8 if I still lived in Minnesota.

Flooding which will hapen
12 MPG using winter gas and warm up
Rust!

If you read this forum, you would think the 2004 manual RX-8 is a lemon. I have 82000 miles on my car and it has run fine without the crap advice one reads here. Premix stuff (never done this), redline once a day (never ever red lined it or even come close to 7000 rpom), change wires every 3-6 months (never did this), blown engines (mine is original) and on and on. I just took the car, followed the manual, did the oil changes and that is it. The only negative is the low mileage at between 13 and 19.If you've never ever redlined it, then how do you know you haven't lost power due to neglecting the "extra" maintenance?

Don't get me wrong, I like my car's stereo and seating position and handling, but there's no point in buying the rotary if you don't want to wring it out like a wet towel from time to time. It is a sports car, after all.

- - -

Anyway, to the OP:

My first car was a 1989 Mazda 626LX. That was a fantastic first car; it wasn't dog-slow, but it wasn't fast enough to get me into trouble before I could see it coming, either. It only ever broke down twice in the six years I had it (between age 10 - 16), it ran well on 89 gas, and I didn't lose a ton of money when a teenage girl smashed into it when I had it parked in front of my house. I know why you want a nice shiny new car, but in short order you'll realize why so many frumpy old people buy Camrys -- because reliability and affordability are most important. I'm not glad that I waited until age 27 to buy my first new car, but I am glad I didn't get one at age 18 -- especially considering the two very close calls I had before I even made it to college. If I'd been driving a sports car, I would've totaled it by now. Hell, I'm still a little scared of this one, and I've been driving for ten years now.

Hey man. I'm 17, high school, junior and my first car is an RX-8. The way I drive, the fuel economy isn't THAT great...I get about 13 driving aggressively to and from school. I bought it used with 69k miles on it and it runs terrific, and I think it's a great first car. I have the best car at my high school for sure and it's great to drive. The worst I've done is hit a curb while parking, otherwise just be careful with it if you decide to get an 8. Hope this helps!

Edit:
Just remembered more info to add in. Mine RX-8 is 2004 titanium grey (if color matters at all...) and I got it for about 12k. Since then it's been a blast painting calipers, installing strakes, getting a new body kit, etc. It's a great way to learn about cars. Rotaries really aren't that hard and are a LOT simpler than piston engines. I live in Cali so the weather is warm most of the time so I don't have to worry about cold starts and all that jazz. Insurance-wise, I'm not sure since my parents do that, but since the RX-8 is a "4-door" car it helps...a bit. Also good grades help the insurance too. However my parents insurance did double...but that's normal for any teen getting a car under their parents' insurance.

You should also think about cops.... They see a young kid driving something nicer than what they have they're gunna be hard on you alot of times. I'm 19 and this cop was giving me shit the other night... these cars are f'ing cop magnets

You should also think about cops.... They see a young kid driving something nicer than what they have they're gunna be hard on you alot of times. I'm 19 and this cop was giving me shit the other night... these cars are f'ing cop magnets

Yeah I'm 17 and had a cop follow me around for about 10 minutes before he finally gave up and drove off. :suspect:

kids, 1st recommended "upgrade for your car"

1) Valentine radar detector (it will pay for its self many time over, it's expensive.. and worth it)

2) a run at a local autocross, it will humiliate you and hopefully teach you a thing or two.

that is a great advice and i have considered that but i am 17 and been driving for 2 years. Whether it was my parents car or sisters, i drove it whenever i could. i have my license now and i think i am ready for a car. If you can tell me anything else about the car i would appreciate it. Things like which model to get and you know all that stuff!


i actually got a 2004 mazda rx8 as my first car haha its actually really fun to drive just dont thrash on it im still a beginner on it but from wut i keep hearing and everything its just maintainance like constant oil changes you gotta add oil every third or fourth time you put gas on mine on gas is alright i put twnty bucks of premium it lasts me about 4-5 days so not that bad but if you really want this car as your first then i say go for it others say not to because of other ppl who thrash and dont take care of there cars so my suggestion is go for it its a great first car and plus theres not that many around man mines electric blue and i got ppl turnin there heads and with the exhaust haha so thumbs up if you get it man i love my rx8 and still im a beginner

If you read this forum, you would think the 2004 manual RX-8 is a lemon. I have 82000 miles on my car and it has run fine without the crap advice one reads here. Premix stuff (never done this), redline once a day (never ever red lined it or even come close to 7000 rpom), change wires every 3-6 months (never did this), blown engines (mine is original) and on and on. I just took the car, followed the manual, did the oil changes and that is it. The only negative is the low mileage at between 13 and 19.


Are you the original owner? And why have you never been above 7k? Thats like buying a hooker and asking for a handjob. If you are the original owner, and that car has never been over 7k, I think you have a ticking timebomb. Wish I could see the carbon inside when it blows.