I'm looking at used RX-8s and found an 05 Shinka for this price. The price is below Kelly Blue Book, but that seems irrelevant from what I've read on here and other sites since the 8 seems to be selling for much less than KBB prices anyway.

The car is a one owner with no reported issues and a clean CarFax. I haven't had a chance to drive it yet, though.

I'm looking to move from my modified 1990 RX-7 (nonturbo ~160 hp at engine) that I've had for 9 years (as the second owner), and I have driven a 2009 model at a local dealership for comparison. So I am familiar with the rotary and have done all my own maintenance, repairs, and modifications. The '09 is somewhat appealing since it is reported to be lighter and has 4.77 gears (moving from 4.1 to 4.3+shorter tires in my RX-7 made around town driving much nicer since 1st gear takeoffs were improved). But a well priced used car fits my budget best. Also, I don't like some of the '09+ styling choices.

I do plan to track drive the 8 as I currently do my 7 once or twice a year, so any thoughts there? From what I can tell, the 8 betters my car in basically every way except maybe suspension since I have 5-way Tokicos and stiffer springs, and the 8 is much quieter. Also, the 8 weighs in around the same as my car (GXL model with power everything adds some weight). I've seen 8s at autocrosses and HPDE days, and they are very impressive (both stock and modified suspensions appear quite good).

Any tips and thoughts are welcome and appreciated!

It's not a bad price, but you might be able to talk them down a bit. request a compression test before purchase.

@laythor: Thanks for the tip on requesting a compression test. I'm working up a list of questions to ask, so I'll add it!

glad to help, and welcome to the addiction!

yeah its a good price, i paid 18 for my 05 GT 6 speed in 2008 with 40k at a dealer

def do a compression test and check maintenance

oh and mine sees the track and its a beautiful thing, not the fastest car on the straights but who cares

yeah its a good price, i paid 18 for my 05 GT 6 speed in 2008 with 40k at a dealer

def do a compression test and check maintenance

oh and mine sees the track and its a beautiful thing, not the fastest car on the straights but who cares

@learycd: Thanks for the info. This car is for sale at a used car lot that tends to sell BMWs.

I couldn't agree more about driving on the track! I have a great time in my old RX-7 for basically the same reason it would be fun in an 8. :)

I have a question that may be a little related to this uh. I know it might be already answered somewhere in the forum but. The 100k/8 year engine core warranty. When you buy a series one like this do you have to prove every oil change if the engine looses compression later? Does the buy need to demand papers or database? Or not worriy about that part and just take delivery?