Stephen Odell, Mazda's global sales and marketing manager has said that there is a proposed performance push to upgrade most of the Mazda models. However, the plan to build a new age rotary RX-7 has been shelved.

Mazda wants to build a series of Mazda speed performance models to sit at the top of each model range. Mazda3 is being given a V6 engine to create a prototype hot hatch. Also there will be a Mazda speed version of the Mazda2 and 6.

Even the sporty 4 seat Mazda RX-8 could come in for a tune-up.
Odell says, "Mazda engineers are working more hours than they deserve to deliver the stuff that we have in the cycle plan and in the end you have to prioritise what you are going to do. While the RX-7 became a wonderful car for us around the world, ultimately it became very difficult to sustain. It is not an option in the short term, but is something we would look at in the medium term. The rush of new products has delayed the next RX-7".

Odell admits "that a 2-seater version of the RX-8 or something similar could be introduced to keep the model fresh later in its life. Mazda will concentrate on building models that are variations of the current cars".

"Crossover versions of the 2, 3 and 6 are all being considered although Odell will not comment on exact models or dates and they are expected to run an all-wheel-drive system."

The above is from James Stanford's article in the Gold Coast Bulletin (daily newspaper) today.

I love all the RX7's....but they should just give up on bringing back the RX7 and just go ahead like they always intended and continue the RX line...so the next 2 seat rotary should be RX9. Every attempt to call the next 2 seat rotary RX7 will be met by bitching and whining about how the FD was soooo much better...plus it'll keep the mystique that these FD owners are so worried about.

Before the RX8 came out, and after the FD imports stopped, I craved for any rotary powered sports car...didn't care what it was called....

Hey, found this on another web site...

"Well, the fact that the informants within MAZDA have become very tight lipped about the RX-3 is good news!! It means it is going ahead with serious development. The bad news is it is going to be really tough getting new information out of them until it is shown at an autoshow.

Since there is no Tokyo Autoshow this year (Oct 2005 is the next one) the next big show that this could be shown at is the next NAIAS in Detriot , January 2005. If it doesn't make that show, then it will debut at Tokyo in Oct of 2005.

Other bad news is with the RX-3 in development, there is no one left to work on the RX-7. So that is shelved... probably won't show up again, even as a concept until TOKYO Autoshow 2007!!"

Anyone know anything more about the RX-3 and what kind of car it would be?

RX-3??? that's kinda weird. is this gonna be like a 2-door rotary coupe? where did you hear this from?

but i think high performance variants of the mazda3 would be real cool. it'd also be awesome to see mazda return to wrc, but i'm sure that's not gonna happen, even though the 3 would make a real sweet rally car. that the rx-7 isn't coming back shortly is disappointing. but it makes marketing sense. once the next skyline gt-r is out, and perhaps even a new supra, then maybe mazda would be more inclined to revive the 7

Man, this news is hitting me hard, yet at the same time it makes me glad to hear that Mazda will expand their MAZDASPEED division for other vehicles.

Still, I really wanted to see an RX-7 soon, and since that won't be happening, I guess I'm going to have to go ahead and buy the 8 since I'm not going to wait a couple of years for something that is just a rumor.

Mazda is SMART... there profit is mainly mazda 3 and mazda 6... NOT THE RX-8... they would rather produce better variants of the 6 & 3.. then consider the RX-8...

20% of sales are rx-8.. so mazda gave what we wanted... FOR NOW.. 2-door version will come later.. after they produce more variants of there higer volume sale cars...

SUPRA is NOT... NOT COMMING 100%... TOYOTA SAID IT...
GT-R iS.. IS.. 100% comming.. NISSAN SAID IT.. 100%...

PLEASE DONT CREATE ANOTHER RX-7... make it RX-9 or something... cause RX-7 is a legend... leave it like that...

As long as mazda makes a rotary powered car.. its all GOOD.... rx-8 is badass enough ... it would be cool to have 2-door... but its all good...

Yeah, i see the RX-7 as a legend too and i cant see any other car that is better looking that will replace it, but Mazda has to Bring back their Flagship car = The MIllenia!

The Millenia was actually an entry level for car for a defunct idea to create a luxury brand in the US and not a Mazda flagship car. That has always been the rotary in various iterations.

The GT-R is slated for 2007.

Indeed the RX-8 is a low volume car and I would be suprised myself if Mazda came out with anything new before the next model year, if even that.

I just can't wait for the MazdaSpeed Mazda 3...

V6...Possible Turbo... All-Wheel-Drive... OH BOY... its gonne smoke the Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Evolution...

220-250 HP
2700 LBS
AWD...
- then people can stop comparing the impreza (wrx & sti )... mitsu evo to the RX-8..

Originally posted by murix
The Millenia was actually an entry level for car for a defunct idea to create a luxury brand in the US and not a Mazda flagship car. That has always been the rotary in various iterations.


I know that but, im pretty sure that Mazda considered it as their Flagship car, it competed wit BMW,Lexus, and Infiniti.

Pimp,
I finally get to agree with you. In the U.S. market the Millenia was considered to be the flagship. The 8 now holds that designation.

:D Yay! good to see someone that agrees wit me! :)

My pleasure pimp. I guess Christians and Muslims can agree from time to time. Much love youthman.
Back on topic; a lot of people are patiently awaiting another RX-7.

Mazda made a good move by taking the milli out...since they were developing new cars such as 6,3,RX-8. Mazda Millenia would have to have needed enchancement to the whole car(redign, power, chassis.. etc) inorder to compete with AVALON... TL... MAXIMA... and mazda sales were like crap on the millenia since it was out dated...which would require alot of time which mazda doesn't have since there creating rx-8,6, 3. Later down the road when they have all there cars up to date... and competeive they will build a "MAZDA 9"... as some rumors were floating around... and as for the RX-7... there's still hope.. and mazda knows what we want more rotaries... and power oriented vehicles.. which are under development right now...

Originally posted by KCROTOR
Hey, found this on another web site...

"Well, the fact that the informants within MAZDA have become very tight lipped about the RX-3 is good news!! It means it is going ahead with serious development. The bad news is it is going to be really tough getting new information out of them until it is shown at an autoshow.

Since there is no Tokyo Autoshow this year (Oct 2005 is the next one) the next big show that this could be shown at is the next NAIAS in Detriot , January 2005. If it doesn't make that show, then it will debut at Tokyo in Oct of 2005.

Other bad news is with the RX-3 in development, there is no one left to work on the RX-7. So that is shelved... probably won't show up again, even as a concept until TOKYO Autoshow 2007!!"

Anyone know anything more about the RX-3 and what kind of car it would be?

Don't be confused here, I am not talking about the Mazda 3, I am talking about a new RX-3 (rotary powered). Some sources are convinced it is coming. Of course I would welcome any additional rotary powered vehicles. Any ideas on where this car would fit in the Mazda lineup? What cars might this compete with?

Originally posted by rx-7~rx-8
Mazda made a good move by taking the milli out...since they were developing new cars such as 6,3,RX-8. Mazda Millenia would have to have needed enchancement to the whole car(redign, power, chassis.. etc) inorder to compete with AVALON... TL... MAXIMA... and mazda sales were like crap on the millenia since it was out dated...which would require alot of time which mazda doesn't have since there creating rx-8,6, 3. Later down the road when they have all there cars up to date... and competeive they will build a "MAZDA 9"... as some rumors were floating around... and as for the RX-7... there's still hope.. and mazda knows what we want more rotaries... and power oriented vehicles.. which are under development right now...

Excuse me but who said that the Millenia sold bad? In south florida, their all over the place, maybe ur talking about the 01-02 models which yes sold poorly but overall this car sold well.

It sold... true... but not as well as Mitsubishi Diamante... Nissan Maxima... Toyota Avalon... FACt: it was a nice car.. but sales were dropping every year... and if they continued... it would continue to drop... and mazda wanted it to INCREASE... in order to do so... they would have to improve the car... time and money... which they didn't have... for that car...

ahhh yes, but we all know that those 3 cars that you listed are not better cars than the milly. I hope we see a comeback from such a great car *tear*

True... Milli is really nice.. i never driven one... but i sat in one... man the fit and finish on the car is awesome... also it looks the Best out of Maxima, Avalon, and Diamante.

There are persistant rumors of a rotary Miata. Of course these rumors are squelched quickly. The thing that gets me is the rumors are very persistant. I think Mazda either does a new RX-7 or has a piston engined volume Miata and hi-po Miata with the rotary. I'll take either one.

Maybe the RX-3 would be based on the new Miata chassis or would it be FWD? But then the RX-8 chassis would be under utilized.

Sheesh, I need a good inside source. Of course, most of this stuff is coming so close to fruition that if a mole did tell us something it would probably be to keep us in the dark.

A FWD Rotary? Why...that's the most retarded thing I've heard...

I guess I'm in the minority...I can care less of any of the other non-rotary powered Mazda models...I love their rotary powered cars. That's it.

I do wish that the other models sell well, so Mazda has more funds to keep the rotary going.....

FCUK! I guess I'll be keeping the RX-8 for quite some time. The only reason I sold my FD and bought an RX-8 was in hopes I could own a new RX-7 in a few years. I've been missing the FD a lot lately and now I kind of regret buying the 8 if they aren’t going to bring the 7 back.

From my understanding of it the next Miata is going to be based on the 8 platform (I could be wrong).
The other opinion I hold is that an RX-7 is being delayed by financial and other constraints; not the least of which is the shortage of expert engine builders at the plant in Japan. These folks supposedly number less than 10 and are currently building approx. 60,000 units a year.
Everyone keep supporting and keep your fingers crossed.

RX-7.. the earliest it could come out is 2007... no earlier. Since there is the concept, then the prototype, then the production. Trust me mazda isn't going to rush anything, they will take there time on every car they build, so they can get it right. So the truth hurts, but all of us rx-7 fans will have to wait 3-4 years til a new rx-7 replacement or 2-door rotary rocket to come.

The main problem I see is the lack of engine production. Mazda has never had to produce rotary engines in this volume before. It shows! Look at how some the these engine have failed in the Rx8. I think it was mostly caused by the engine builders being rushed to meet demand. Coolant seal failers, oil leaks ect. Mazda had better do something about the shortage of builders and open up an additional plant if they ever plan on building another rotary powered vehicle.

With the possibility of Mazda3 variants to compete with WRX's etc...and a supposed Rotary Miata, it makes me wonder where that leaves the RX-8. It would still be the flagship, but potentially much less in the performance category than either. To me this doesn't work.

I see this as a positive, Mazda will have to increase the power of the 8 beyond a free flowing exhaust and lightened flywheel, etc..., to keep ahead of the rest of the line-up.

I am willing to bet you will never see a rotary powered Miata. No reason for mazda to do this. I am also willing to bet that IF you see another RX-7 it will not be until 2007 at the earliest. The next rotary powered car on the RX-8 platform will likely be a new RX-3. Lower price point than the 8, not so much of a "sports car". Might use the same engine in the RX-8 automatic. It would be cool if they gave us a balls out rear wheel drive with high HP in a minimalist package.

There is one thing wrong with the non-Rotary Miata argument... Mazda engineers are Execs are almost brainwashed to say the Rotary will only go into sports cars from now on... which leaves kick ass concepts like a new REPU out of the question.

Well, if the rotary is ONLY used for sports cars, then it SHOULD be used in the Miata. Period. It makes no sense to me that they claim the rotary is only for sports cars, while for the longest time, the Miata, which is the purest sports car out there right now, has no Rotary heart beating.... not even as an option.

Mazda: if you continue to claim the rotary is only for sports cars, then put it in the Miata. Otherwise give us a new Rotary Mini-Truck or other non-sports car concepts based off the rotary.

I wonder though if Mazda draws a distinction between a "sports car" and a "roadster"? Maybe they do not consider the Miata a sports car but rather a roadster (I know I do), and therefore it does not fall under the statement about sports cars and the rotary.

Anyway, I would like to see a NEW concept for the rotary. The Miata is piston and I am happy to let it stay that way. I would rather see something new and exciting for the next rotary.

rotarynews.com -> it's a nice idea, but I doubt they could hand build the motors fast enough to meet production. I can't see mazda springing for an automated renesis building plant either.

BTW - A FWD rotary is a good idea! No torque steer ;)

Current Miata owner... i am NOT one of them... but say, they will ruin the miata if they add a rotary in it... imagine if they put a v6 in a rx-8.... ALRIGHT then... thats how most miata owners feel about a rotary-powered miata... reliabilty is bullet-prodd on miatas with the inline 4...last well over 150K...with out any major problems...

Mazda shouldn't build a rotary miata... rather build a 2-door hatch or coupe with rotary... miata should stay true its backgound and heritage...

Yea i knew that Miata owners would hate this, but ive seen v8s in miatas, and thats worse, and a rotary engine is Mazda and Miata is a Mazda , so its ok

But there are some hard core rotary people out there that don't consider the Miata to be a true Mazda since they forsake the rotary...

In fact, the population at large has a hard time identifying the Miata with the Mazda brand. I've been at Autoshows, and focus groups where the question was asked: "What manufacturer makes the Miata?" Proved the point to me that the Miata isn't widly recognized as a Mazda (or that people are dumb...)

What the rotary Miata would bring to the table is a powerhouse roadster that screams 100% Mazda technology... Suspension and Engine.

With all that said. It'll never happen.

Just my two pennies...but if they've really shelved the 4Gen 7...that really sucks!!! Means I'll probably end up getting an 8 when the 7 is paid but I'm hoping there will be a Speed 8 by then.

I really like the 8 but the lack of TQ was REALLY disappointing when I test drove it. At first I thought the gas pedal was hung up on something and not going all the way down. I'm not too concerned about the HP's but when I hit the trottle I want to feel the G's and blow people away like I do in my 7.

But in restrospect....all evidence (media wise) says that the Mazda plant is at maximum capacity with the 8 and other stuff.
Disappointing but true.
I say if you're going to be a smaller company then find a few things that you're good at and stick to it and perfect it instead of wasting time with fringe crud that doesn't go anywhere. Like the MPV and the 3. Not that the 3 is bad or anything...but it'll be a second or third choice car as will some of the other models.
Focus on building the cult, and the mystique and of the 7, 8, Mazda6, and Rx3, etc.

Maybe we should ask Miata owners if they would be offended by a rotary powered version of their car. One of the only shortcomings ever listed by them is lack of power and the renesis creates more torque from 3000 rpms than the BP 1.8 does at peak. All the serious Miata loyalists I've spoken to are thrilled at the suggestion of Wankel power as an option.

it would be awesome to see mazda get more serious about their miata line, and take aim at the high performance roadsters and compete directly with s2000, z4, and porsche boxter (i guess 350z roadster too now, but... somehow that one doesn't really fit in this category). if they are to do that then i wouldn't be surprised at all if they decide to go with a wankel engine.

I was reading a thread just last night on the miata forum where many miata owners asked this very question and do want Mazda to put a rotary in it. The concensus is that the rotary is a perfect fit for the Miata and has all the charecteristics that an engine for the miata needs. The point has already been made that Mazda can sell a base RX8 for $25,200 and this is already cheaper than the top level Miata. Many Miata owners want a rotary.

Who would say no to a lighter, faster, higher revving, super smooth miata? :D

The new Miata is going to share many RX-8 parts already. Adding the engine is not much more. They can offer two models. One with the 4 cylinder as the low cost fun for the buck entry model, and then a top level rotary model.

I would even have to go look at this car. Priced at $30k it would compete extemely well against both the S2000 and the Elise, especially if they hit their 2200-2400lb mark. Imagine how fast your RX8 would be with 500lbs less. :)

Oh, and for the reliability comment, go look at how many 1G RX-7's are still going strong with well over 100k on the clock. ;)

Rotary Miata would give S2000 a run for its money...

Originally posted by KCROTOR
... I am talking about a new RX-3 (rotary powered). Some sources are convinced it is coming. ...

I'd love it - maybe it can be a true 2+2 fastback and a hatchback (sort of like the mx3 - but looking more modern and edgy) ... and compete with RSX or Celica ...

:confused:

i LOVE design by committee!!!

is it just me or does anyone else remember the original plans for the miata concept calling for an NA rotary? wasn't the miata designed around the rotary and at the last minute got stuffed with the 1.8?

or am i just being dilerious?

Ray

If I had my way, the Miata would come with a rotary engine, but also with the look of the J-spec RS Coupe A/E-Type as an available option (as opposed to JUST a convertible w/ragtop).

The news of no RX-7 is disheartening:( , I was going to buy a 6 or 3 for my fiancee's wedding gift and then, 2-3 years down the road, not have to ask for permission to buy a '7. The back & forth about it's return make me more worried, but I think an alternate 2-seater '8 (or '9 or whatever you wanna' call it) is an excellent idea.

Originally posted by rx-7~rx-8
Current Miata owner... i am NOT one of them... but say, they will ruin the miata if they add a rotary in it... imagine if they put a v6 in a rx-8.... ALRIGHT then... thats how most miata owners feel about a rotary-powered miata... reliabilty is bullet-prodd on miatas with the inline 4...last well over 150K...with out any major problems...

Mazda shouldn't build a rotary miata... rather build a 2-door hatch or coupe with rotary... miata should stay true its backgound and heritage...



I totally disagree. If the Miata is ever available with the rotary, it would be an option. Therefore the diehard Miata owners could still have the 4 banger if they wanted. Also NA rotarys have always been reliable by comparison. I don't know about you but I would feel way more confident redlining a rotary with 150k as compared to redlining the 4 banger with those many miles.

Originally posted by rpm_pwr


BTW - A FWD rotary is a good idea! No torque steer ;)

Hate to tell you, but torque steer really as nothing to do with the amount of torque a motor makes. Torque steer is a product of the half safts being noticeably different in lenght. This is because the longer a shaft is the more it will flex (twist) under load. You could have a V8 with 300ft/lbs of torque and equal lenght half shafts and there would be no torque steer. But you could have an 80 lb/ft torque I4 with one shaft 16 in. longer than the other and have the steering wheel rip out of your hand every time you put the pedal to the floor.

Originally posted by rx-7~rx-8
Rotary Miata would give S2000 a run for its money...

The MazdaSpeed Miata cant?

Mental Pimp, yeah it could but its a limited edition. S2000 is a class higher than miata... miata isn't as fast as s2000. The 2005-2006 Mazda Miata with a some components from the RX-8 will give s2000 a run for its money...

So, I wonder if the value of the 3rd gen 7's has just gone up!

I believe so...the FD value should go up since they will definetly not be making anymore RX-7 badged rotary cars.

OH yeah... the value will go up in Rtary Fan's.. not Kelly Blue Book Value will most likely stay the same.

I'm not sure if this info is at all correct, but according to car and driver, a new RX-7 should debut in 2006. Maybe this is the concept that got scrapped? I haven't seen any pictures of it from the tokyo show, maybe I'll see if I can look them up.

"Mazda RX-7 A new two-seat coupe, shorter and wider than the RX-8 is set to debut at the 2003 Tokyo show. Power will approach 300 -hp thanks to increased displacement from wider rotor chambers."

http://www.caranddriver.com/default.asp?section_id=47&numFPIYear=2006&agYear=2006&strFPIMake=&agMake=&strFPIModel=

All that is crap now, Mazda said that it will focus on the RX-8 now, they will be making a 2-door rx8 and a convertible rx8 soon.

...and you got this info from where?

I remeber when I 1st drove a Miata. Back when I had the 1st gen. I swear the miata was a closer successor to the 1st gen RX7 than the FC was. Obviously it was a convertible, and piston powered, but sitting in it, all the controls seemed the same as the 1st gen rx7. The position of the window swithces, the similar snick snick shifter, overall size of the cockpit, the size of the car, it just seemed like if just had a hard top, and that DEI 13B, it would have been a worthy succesor to the 1st gen. Even the lights look the same when they are up and on. Then in 94 when that yellow coupe Miata concept car was made, it matched my vision of what the 1st gen would have looked like in modern times...perfect. So to me, the fact that the Miata was never rotary powered was a bummer...kinda turned me off from them. I never owned a piston engined Mazda, and I don't really plan on it...

From what I understand via a District Operations Manager here in California ( who reports directly to Mazda of North America ), Mazda is working hard on a MazdaSpeed version of the RX-8 which will come with a turbo-charger at the end of this year, or early next.

My guess is that this car will be debuted at the NAIAS in Detroit in January 2005.

Just a guess.

In the post above, I meant to say that the MazdaSpeed RX-8 will come with a "supercharger" and not merely a turbocharger that runs off of exaust gases. Hopefully, this will indeed happen and there won't be any turbo lag either with the "supercharger".

Since BMW has the "M" series, and Mercedes has the "AMG" series, and Audi now has the "S" series, it is only natural that Mazda will want to increase its "branding" via the MazdaSpeed series.

:)

Hey Mental Pimp...............

I traded in my 2001 Millenia S for the RX8. The Millennia S was an excellent car for the money. The 2001 redesign was major enough for it to be included in the running for a magazine's car pick; however, it is true that the core design was aging. It is my opinion though that the car was the best looker in its class. The Miller engine is great - 3 years on Wards list. The only thing I noticed that held the car back was the tranny. It sucked so much power away from the engine. Sometimes the car would accelerate on a kick-down like a jack-rabbit and other times it would lag and have a delayed response. It was not an engine thing but a gear issue. I also noticed that the car take-off from a stand still had a delay built-in. Most likely to protect drive compenents from "snappy" take-off. The car was a fantastic cruiser though. Gas mileage was only about 1-2 mpg better than the RX though (for me) Someone at the dealership bought my Millennia S. Ah, Pearl white 2 tone, chrome wheels, beautiful car!

The Amanti or Amati (one of those) line was to be Millennia's home as the entry level car (ES300-like) and again IMO it was every bit as good as the ES (I drove one of those for 3 years)

The problem was that the Millennia had no advertisement and was priced wrong. Mine had a sticker of $32K but I bought it for $26 w/chrome wheels - an S model! Try picking up an ES or an Infiniti I 30 for that money.

gah!

just have a rx-9, 2 and 4 seater. jeez stop all this crap. someone from mazda board go fight for the community. have an engine near 300 or more with two models. a 2 seater and a 4 seater. this way all that talk and crap would be stopped. and rotaries will own the pistons!

SuPerHerO::tOnY,

you are right there bud. Up some power - er uh, torque.

I hope that Mazda continues to be aggressive in the R&D of the RX8 and keep it current in the performance aspect. One thing that is different today than 10 years ago is that companies move much faster to be competitive. I truly believe the RX8 was one of a few cars to make it from proto to production that started the creative competitive juices flowing among manufacturers. Already Nissan is revamping the suspension on the 350Z and planning the option of purchase of the fairlady (Z) in the US according to R&T. Although we talk on the forum of how much we all love our rotary RX8's - and we do - marketablility is important.

Zero to 60 in 6.0 seconds is a good figure IMO for a street car like the RX8 but when I read a report that says 7.2 seconds I begin to cringe - wonder how they tested it or what went wrong.

the Rx8 has had more R&D then most the other cars out on the market right now, becuase they were scared to have the same mistake twice...

i read somewheres that a supercharger would not work on an rx-8... a turbo would be a much better idea. sure there would be a bit of turbo lag, but turbos work much better the higher the rpms, and rx-8s are designed just for those high rpms right?

and as for the 7.2 second figure you saw, i read something in car & driver about how some people were getting that instead of the 5.9 due to the fact that they weren't dumping the clutch at high rpms... just what i heard :)

Originally posted by super_monkey
i read somewheres that a supercharger would not work on an rx-8

The hydrogen powered RX-8 concept uses a superchanger already.

yeah my bad i went back and re-read... the article says the supercharger wouldnt work due to emissions, my bad... do you think they will come out with aftermarket superchargers? :D

The Hydrogen ROtary Engine... features a Electric Turbo...

Car and Driver is very accurate on there future list.

my family owns a volvo c70 coupe... which they stop making... then i read on Car and driver there 10 months ago on future cars...2006 Volvo C50 will be released... and i was skeptical... now i saw real life pics in the Automobile Magazine... and it comming out in 2005 as a 2006 model...


RX-8 2-seater may be in the works... who gives a d@mn what mazda names it... as long as it looks tyte.. and has a rotary in it... with 2 seats... RX-7 is a LEGEND... retire that name....

I just checked in once again with my local sales manager at the dealer who said that the Mazda Guys stopped by a few days ago from Mazda of North America and all they really talked about was a MazdaSpeed 6 that was slated to come out with 280 horsepower and all-wheel drive in January of 2005. They also said that a Mazdaspeed 3 was coming out as well.

He pumped them a lot about the MazdaSpeed RX-8 ( to the point of wearing them down! ) but they said that it was a year away, and that the factory was looking into all sorts of Rotary Engine technology mods, such as higher displacement, more rotors, supercharger, single turbo, dual turbo, etc. From what he said, they are apparently trying to meet the DOT requirements without using a lot of catalytic converter on the new engine.

He also indicated that horsepower figures would be well up over 300, pushing something like 350!

In any event, it certainly sounds like the MazdaSpeed Division is certainly busy! By the way, Daimler-Chrysler reported late today that they want to sell off Mitsubishi.

i was reading a car site that they planned to bring back the rx-7 in 06 i think

About the rotary miata thing:

I talked to a Mazda rep at the Washington auto show a while back and they said that a rotary miata was not likely. If they did do it, that seals the fate of the RX-7. A two-seater rotary powered car? Sounds a lot like the RX-7. Bringing back the RX-3 is probably more likely.

Ford controls the cycle plan for Mazda vehicle programs. Mazda management proposes new projects to Ford management, but ultimately it's Ford's decision to approve or reject the program. With that said, there are only a few hundred people within Ford that know the cycle plan for vehicle programs. The cycle plan document is very secretive, and it when it prints, the owner's name is watermarked across it. You can imagine what happens to someone if he/she loses the document. Unless you are getting your information from a Ford exec or a cycle plan holder, I woudn't trust a word of it.

The other thing is that the media is aware of every planned 2006 model year vehicle that is new or significantly redesigned. By this time, manufacturers have several prototype vehicles built and testing, and a large engineering team working on the project. It is nearly impossible to keep a project of this scale secretive. Therefore, I guarantee there will not be a 2006 successor to the RX-7.

Even IF a successor to the RX-7 is in the cycle plan, it is always subject to change. It is very often the case that products are approved and planned, but get cancelled at the last minute via a high-level decision. For this reason, absolutely no one knows with 100% certainty that this vehicle will or will not go into production.

Doesn't a 2007 Rx-7 sound good though? The FD has a rabid following and there is no reason for Mazda not to capitalize on that once the Rx-8 cools off a little. If you will it, it will come.

RX8- Buckeye

Great information , good to see you have your eye on the ball.

cheers
michael

Originally posted by RX8_Buckeye
... It is very often the case that products are approved and planned, but get cancelled at the last minute via a high-level decision. For this reason, absolutely no one knows with 100% certainty that this vehicle will or will not go into production.

Point in case (as quoted in the May 31, 04 issue of AutoWeek/Flash section pg4) VW's microbus that was introduced back in Detroit 2001 auto show which was suppose to come out in 05 is dead, citing unfavorable exchange rates and the need to make their next minivan a global player... their microbus concept was unique-to-american styling.


:(

Originally posted by RX8_Buckeye
Ford controls the cycle plan for Mazda vehicle programs. Mazda management proposes new projects to Ford management, but ultimately it's Ford's decision to approve or reject the program. With that said, there are only a few hundred people within Ford that know the cycle plan for vehicle programs. The cycle plan document is very secretive, and it when it prints, the owner's name is watermarked across it. You can imagine what happens to someone if he/she loses the document. Unless you are getting your information from a Ford exec or a cycle plan holder, I woudn't trust a word of it.

The other thing is that the media is aware of every planned 2006 model year vehicle that is new or significantly redesigned. By this time, manufacturers have several prototype vehicles built and testing, and a large engineering team working on the project. It is nearly impossible to keep a project of this scale secretive. Therefore, I guarantee there will not be a 2006 successor to the RX-7.

Even IF a successor to the RX-7 is in the cycle plan, it is always subject to change. It is very often the case that products are approved and planned, but get cancelled at the last minute via a high-level decision. For this reason, absolutely no one knows with 100% certainty that this vehicle will or will not go into production.

Unfortunately I have to agree. As much as I want the FD to return so that I may purchase one to go with my '94, I just don't see it happening for 2006. We're talking a shade over a year until 2006 models are going to be released, and the fact there are no spy shots, car show prototypes, insider info, etc. out on the 2006 RX7 tells me it isn't happening. Something of this magnitude would already be in Mazda marketing. Look at the RX8.

There are spy pics supposedly of the new Miata, but people here and the Miata forum decided it probably wasn't a Miata, and likely a RX7. Do a search and you'll find at least one thread about it.

Originally posted by Rotarian_SC
There are spy pics supposedly of the new Miata, but people here and the Miata forum decided it probably wasn't a Miata, and likely a RX7. Do a search and you'll find at least one thread about it.

I've already seen all these "spy pics" out, none are real and if so were taken late last year. And since then there have been countless auto shows for the 2004 year and still nothing.

Originally posted by AMRAAM4
We're talking a shade over a year until 2006 models are going to be released, and the fact there are no spy shots, car show prototypes, insider info, etc. out on the 2006 RX7 tells me it isn't happening.

There actually are car show prototypes for the RX-7 - it was complete and Mazda planned to show it at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show last fall, but pulled it at the last minute. That just supports the speculation that a new RX-7 is postponed, however.

Originally posted by AMRAAM4
I've already seen all these "spy pics" out, none are real and if so were taken late last year. And since then there have been countless auto shows for the 2004 year and still nothing.

The spy pics he is referring to are of a white engineering test mule that was photographed in the past month or two testing at the Nurburgring. The car was very real, and wearing a disguise made up of an RX-8 front end and a NB Miata rear section. We didn't necessarily decide it wasn't a Miata, just considered the possibility that it might be the NC Miata testing or it might be testing for a future RX-7 convertible.

Regards,
Gordon

Gord I'm not doubting you but do you have any sources on the RX-7 prototypes that weren't shown?

By the way, a new RX-7 would not be an FD. The FD has a lot of magical qualities including being one of the most gorgeous designs of all time but it doesn't need to return.

Mazda has a tough time out in the marketplace against Honda and Toyota. If it wasn't for Ford leveraging their engineering across Ford/Lincoln etc., I don't think they would have gotten as far as they have lately. They struggle for volume. I think the the RX8 is a flagship or icon for Mazda but to see them accummulate on the lots makes me think its not really successful enough to spawn many variants. The Millenia was supposed to belong to an upmarket brand. The Mazda name can't carry a model that expensive. Thats what they found out with the 929 I believe.

Originally posted by 4thGen
Gord I'm not doubting you but do you have any sources on the RX-7 prototypes that weren't shown?

I can't name names, but it was the same source that e-mailed me photos of the Ibuki concept car 2 weeks before the Tokyo show! ;) (Those photos showed the Ibuki being wheeled in and set up in the studio for the Mazda publicity photos that were available and shown everywhere 2 weeks later). The source hadn't seen the RX-7 Concept personally, but knew some of the people who worked on it.

Regards,
Gordon

Originally posted by zoomed
I think the the RX8 is a flagship or icon for Mazda but to see them accummulate on the lots makes me think its not really successful enough to spawn many variants.

The RX-8 is actually proven to be extremely successful. Production is still running flat-out at the capacity of the Renesis engine facility, and in many countries the RX-8 allocation sold out a year in advance. In the US, Mazda had a deliberate policy of wanting the car to be available and in good supply, which is why there are cars on the lots - that's what Mazda wanted. It's not that the cars aren't moving! The US sales have met Mazda's sales projections/forecasts, so it is in fact doing very well. That's actually a big factor in delaying a future RX-7 version - the Renesis plant has no capacity to supply rotary engines to another model right now, and Mazda does not want to invest in a second or larger Renesis production facility at this time.

Regards,
Gordon

Originally posted by Gord96BRG
I can't name names...

Do you think your source is open to requests? ... like a updated 2+2 fastback that is also a hatchback, like the MX-6 & MX-3 (there were rumors a while back that Mazda was working on a RX-3...)

;)

IMHO having a fastback that's a hatchback is the right way to go!

:D

Originally posted by Gord96BRG
The RX-8 is actually proven to be extremely successful. Production is still running flat-out at the capacity of the Renesis engine facility, and in many countries the RX-8 allocation sold out a year in advance. In the US, Mazda had a deliberate policy of wanting the car to be available and in good supply, which is why there are cars on the lots - that's what Mazda wanted. It's not that the cars aren't moving! The US sales have met Mazda's sales projections/forecasts, so it is in fact doing very well. That's actually a big factor in delaying a future RX-7 version - the Renesis plant has no capacity to supply rotary engines to another model right now, and Mazda does not want to invest in a second or larger Renesis production facility at this time.

Regards,
Gordon

I'll agree with that last part. For those who don't follow the FD as much, they have stopped making remans for now of the 13BREW. Yes, that means there are almost 100 or more people with FDs sitting around waiting for a reman. There is no definitive date when they will go back into production due to the increased work and changeover to the Renesis.

Just got my C&D magazine in the mail today there's a little section that says the RX-8 is going to come out with a electric turbocharger. As for the new 7 or 9 or w/e. I've got 4 years of college left so any time after that if Mazda wants to release a new rotory powered car that'd be fine by me :D. I'm starting to really like the looks of the RX-8 they look even better in person. Haven't gotten to drive one yet since the Mazda dealer wouldn't even let me sit in one :(

As for the rotary-powered Miata . . . it's not going to happen. First, Mazda engineers aren't after the most ridiculous power-to-weight ratio possible with the Miata. Even the Renesis in current trim would overpower the chassis. When Mazda was developing the Mazdaspeed MX-5, they tried all sorts of power combos, including a 250-hp version. However, it "felt like a 65%-scale Mustang convertible", that is to say the power completely overwhelmed the chassis and suspension. Miatas are meant to be responsive and agile under all conditions, including WOT. The current 180-hp Mazdaspeed MX-5 is about as powerful as the Miata will ever be.

As for the RX-7 . . . the quote in the article said "medium-term, not short-term". He did NOT say that the projet was scrapped, or shelved. Reading between the lines here, I expect a new RX-7 to be shown sometime in 2007, perhaps as a 2008 model year.

Peace
policy

Originally posted by policyvote
As for the rotary-powered Miata . . . it's not going to happen.


Thats exactly what I thought.

But we (the UK rx8 owners club) have it direct from mazda that there will be a rotary powered mx5 (miata) and a convertable rx8 - both soonish too.

As they've done a turbo mx5(miata) and theres many 3rd party 200bhp+ miatas I doubt it'll be a problem.

Engine will fit, cearbox is almost identical etc, cant see it being a huge engineering job either.

Originally posted by RobDickinson
Thats exactly what I thought.

But we (the UK rx8 owners club) have it direct from mazda that there will be a rotary powered mx5 (miata) and a convertable rx8 - both soonish too.

As they've done a turbo mx5(miata) and theres many 3rd party 200bhp+ miatas I doubt it'll be a problem.

Engine will fit, cearbox is almost identical etc, cant see it being a huge engineering job either.

How can they make a convertable RX-8? The roof is integral to the strength of the frame. If they did that, they would have to ditch the suicide doors. I think the only way there will be a rotary powered miata is if they de-tuned the renesis, especially if there is any future for the RX-7. The 7 or 8 has to be the flagship car.

Originally posted by T.T.
How can they make a convertable RX-8? The roof is integral to the strength of the frame. If they did that, they would have to ditch the suicide doors. I think the only way there will be a rotary powered miata is if they de-tuned the renesis, especially if there is any future for the RX-7. The 7 or 8 has to be the flagship car.

It's going to be a 2 door (the convertable 8).

As for the miata - who knows what tune it'll be in, the 190-210bhp 4 port would be plenty.

Mazda usa website says no plans for an 8 drop top.

The plans arnt on any website. Was something disclosed by mazda UK to UK owners club.

Correct me if I'm wrong but I remember the reported plans that the miata would move to the RX-8 chassis but keep the piston engine. For that matter the RX-8 mule was built out of a stretched miata. I guess what I'm saying is that spy shots and speculation don't mean a lot unless (as mentioned before) you have high level inside info. An RX-8 mule could be an Rx-7 replacement or a miata or even a new car for Ford (ala probe) for all we know.

Originally posted by RobDickinson
The plans arnt on any website. Was something disclosed by mazda UK to UK owners club.

I can't find it now, but I remember reading in something like Road & Track a while back, that because of the extreme strong chassis & backbone stiffness, a convertable could and would be made ...

So, I'm a believer that this can happen, but I was also hoping that the RX-7 would come out first!

Originally posted by jtdwab
...or even a new car for Ford (ala probe) for all we know.

I wouldn't mind that either! I still miss my old 1990 Probe!

Not that I know anything, but if I had to make a guess... based on what we've seen at past auto shows ...

;)

We'll see a redesigned Matia before a new RX-7 or RX-8 convertable.

The styling of the Matia would likely look a little like the Ibuki concept that made its debut last year...

:)

I got it! Let's have Mazda make a rotary Miata, powered by the new Renesis engine and mix the two components of each cars' name:

i.e. The R-M-X 5! Then, we could call it the Miata Remix! 'Kinda like the original, but with a little surprise pizazz to mix things up a bit'

RMX-5... that would be awesome...









Okay, that was just stupid ranting & raving, but hey, it's an idea... :o

I can confirm that there is still an RX-7 project inside Mazda but it is still min. 3 years off. It is also still classified as off-line which means that it's not an official upcoming model and is being treated as a design study at the moment.

They're also chasing 'linear power delivery' and 'simplicity' which you'd have to say means they're going to go with sheer displacement this time.

I know for a fact there are guys on this forum who know a lot more than I do about J77 but for whatever reason they choose not to post.

Personally I'm just happy in the knowledge that 'something' is coming.

I figured Mazda was going to take the next step and increase the displacement. The 13B has been, um, the 13B for a long time, and it's time for some changes. I still find it very surprising how much power a small-displacement rotary engine can produce, despite anemic torque numbers.

I figured Mazda was going to take the next step and increase the displacement. The 13B has been, um, the 13B for a long time, and it's time for some changes. I still find it very surprising how much power a small-displacement rotary engine can produce, despite anemic torque numbers.

wouldnt it be sweet if they did a 2 rotor 20b? that'd be so nice, i just wonder what kind of output vs gas consumption we'd see..

My prediction is Mazda widening the rotor width to 90 mm. That would make a 16B, or something like that. Perhaps moving up a letter an make it a 16C, not to be confused with C16, the 100+ octane fuel from VP. ;)

Well, with an increase in displacement, we'd see more torque.

I can confirm that there is still an RX-7 project inside Mazda but it is still min. 3 years off. It is also still classified as off-line which means that it's not an official upcoming model and is being treated as a design study at the moment.

They're also chasing 'linear power delivery' and 'simplicity' which you'd have to say means they're going to go with sheer displacement this time.

I know for a fact there are guys on this forum who know a lot more than I do about J77 but for whatever reason they choose not to post.

Personally I'm just happy in the knowledge that 'something' is coming.From what I've read, it seems to be an unofficial skunk works project that's being worked on off hours by die hard RX-7 engineers.

If it's at least 3 years off, that will probably make it an '08 or '09 model. I've read that the RX-8 is planned as a 6 model year run, then they'll come out with the next gen RX-8. That would mean the next gen 7 could debut, followed a year or two later by the next gen 8 (which I assume would share many mechanicals from the 7).

The real question is if the market is really big enough for both an RX-7 and RX-8? Or, would they even go back to the RX-7 name? By the time the this J77 project is ready, the RX-8 name will be well established. Calling the car an RX-7 (albeit the name is a legend) would seem like backwards nomenclature. Perhaps they should retire the RX-7 name and just move on. As long as it's an RX-something, folks will know the heritage.

Wasn't there a time in which Mazda had several rotary engine cars?

Also, how does one improve on the striking looks of the next generation RX-8?

Wasn't there a time in which Mazda had several rotary engine cars?I don't believe ever in the US. In Japan, they had both the RX-7 and the Cosmo at various times in their line up. But the two were very different cars.

Although people argue that the RX-8 was never meant to be a 4th gen RX-7, the RX-8 is the current successor to the 7. In fact, when they were developing the 3rd gen RX-7, they were strongly thinking of naming it the RX-8 at that time (a little tid bit from Yamaguchi's book on the FD3S 3rd gen. RX-7). So the two cars are probably more alike than they are different. Not so with the Cosmo.

I was talking about the RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, the REPU and other classic rotaries. I was tooling around on a-spec.ca, and I found a good write-up of Mazda rotary history.

http://me.a-spec.ca:6001/Past.html

Thanks, that's a great link. I didn't realize that the RX-3 and RX-4 coexisted in the US market together for several years.

A lot of people don't know about the rotary's amazing past before the RX-7 which is a shame since there were some very excellent models and a lot of history there.

I am a bit late getting to this thread and I read a lot, but not all, so if I repeat anyone's thoughts I apologize.
What I would like is simply for Mazda to expand the rotary line. I would like another purpose built, lightweight, two seat, gorgeous looking car. I would like a convertable version of either that car or the 8, and I would like a entry level car sporting a lower power rotary that could compete with the subcompacts. I think asking for a luxury car is probably asking much, and I don't think anyone needs anymore rotary pickups.
As far as naming these cars, I think previously used names should be retired. The rx7 is part of the past (as is the Rx3), make the new successor to that car the Rx-9--to show a move forward, and as far as the entry level model, maybe give it a more traditional name. Not every car that had a rotary was an RX--see the Cosmos.

Don't forget the REPU. Mmm. Torquey 13B...

I love a torquey 13B, my 7 dynoed at 280lbs/ft (I forget the rpms) and it feels great. Now give us a torquey NA 13B (or larger displacement).

SUPRA is NOT... NOT COMMING 100%... TOYOTA SAID IT...


I know this isn't a Toyota forum, but are you sure the Supra isn't coming?

Check the link, there's 2 pictures, then tell me what you think.

http://forums.lakersground.net/viewtopic.php?topic=70975&forum=19&14

http://img95.exs.cx/img95/8100/mk5_4.jpg

http://img95.exs.cx/img95/6425/mk5_5.jpg

http://supraforums.com/forum/showthread.php?threadid=216651&perpage=25&pagenumber=22

That's Toyota's supercar concept, meant to compete with ultra supercars like Ferrari Enzo, Ford GT, Porsche Carrera GT and possibly Honda's NSX replacement (if they ever make it). I don't believe it to be the next Supra, if it makes it to production it will be positioned in the stratospheric league. On the other hand, with the success of the RX-8 and 350Z, Toyota's got to be thinking about a Supra as well.

Oh yes it is coming you are right! It may be called TXS according to Autoweek magazine October 18, 2004 issue. 500hp 370lb-ft V10 3000 pounds and runs to 190 mph!!! Only 12,000 being made at a wopping price tag of $100,000.00!!???
Nice and all but for a toyota, you could spend your $100,000.00 on 3 rotor conversion and maybe run over 700hp. I see why they will only make 12,000 of them... because most of the population (middle class) won't be able to afford the vehicle.

The October 20, 2004 "Car Connection" has this spy shot and article on the upcoming new MX-5 "Miata". What is interesting is that they assert that a rotary engine will be optional.

Link below:

Thanks.

http://thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=7662&sid=178&n=158

Oh yes it is coming you are right! It may be called TXS according to Autoweek magazine October 18, 2004 issue. 500hp 370lb-ft V10 3000 pounds and runs to 190 mph!!! Only 12,000 being made at a wopping price tag of $100,000.00!!???
Nice and all but for a toyota, you could spend your $100,000.00 on 3 rotor conversion and maybe run over 700hp. I see why they will only make 12,000 of them... because most of the population (middle class) won't be able to afford the vehicle.


People said that a 100k Ford wouldn't sell, but look at the GT.

You could use that logic to say that we should all be driving used civics with 20k done in mods that would have way more hp than the rx8. Some people probably spent close to 100k including mods on a Supra, so there is a 100k toyota.

I am for one glad to see more performance cars from any company, and Toyota is known for good engineering.

I see your point and your right Toyota does have good engineering, but I think if I had $100,000.00 to spend it wouldn't be on a Supra.

I can understand that, as there will only be 12k per year made. I am hoping that Toyota can use this as an opportunity to develop some advancement that they could put in a mid priced car. It would be great if they could come out with a $30k mid-engine sports car.

If they came out with an affordable supra version not that most people including myself wouldn't end up dumping 15-30k in mods anyway. But it still would be nice to see toyota come out with something other than the spyder.

The Celica & MR-2 are going bye-bye. I think 2005 is the last year.

Autoweek article (http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=100464)

The Celica & MR-2 are going bye-bye. I think 2005 is the last year.

Autoweek article (http://www.autoweek.com/news.cms?newsId=100464)

Bring back the Supra!! :) I know it's not going to happen.

EDIT: I'm wondering what they're going to replace that large gap with...

I heard the Toyota Volta was a go, but thats in the 90k range.

the Scion tC replaces the Celica and mr2

the Scion tC replaces the Celica and mr2

awww....thats sad. :(

Wow, that is sad that the MR2 is going bye bye, I think the 2nd gen turbo was the best, IMHO.

I must say this thread is the most and quite possibly best future mazda thread I have read in a while with a lot of good input and theories. The fact that Mazda is at full production on the rotary engine is a very good sign for us enthusiasts, it means they are selling. I am currently one of the many waitng for an RX-7 (or to pay off my car and get an 8) The news of the Miata being rotar powered is nice to hear, I think Mazda could call it the RX-5 Miata, designating it as a rotary miata. I would enjoy a convertible rotary actually, the photochopped RX-8 vert was pretty nice looking IMO. There are a few miata owners that I Auto-x with that would love more power, one has the flying miata kit, others are researching the kits to put a 13b in it. My Opinion is that the next Miata WILL have a rotary option which will open the door for the rotary, forgive me but here is my theory, and no you can't have any that I am smokin LOL:

- Spy shots show a convertible RX-8/MX-5 test mule with sutt (sp?) on the back indicating possible rotary power
- RX-8, RX-7, MX-5 and whatever other sports iteration is suppossed to share the same chassis design, lowering costs and what not.
- Current RX-8 enthusiasts want more power and a 2 seater sports car where RX-7 hole is
- Current Miata owners want a more powerful car that is still fun to drive. (witnesses on miata boards, the many swaps with older rotaries, V6's, V8's, and turbo kits and my fellow Auto-xer's)
- RX-8 and Renesis has created a HUGE renewed interest for the Wankel engine, making Mazda's engine facility producing them at full tilt.

With all that combined, I could see mazda testing the waters with a limited edition (ala MS RX-5) Miata with a rotary powerplant to gauge feasibility of the rotary engine in vehicles other than the 8, such as the RX-3, RX-7, RX-9 as well as how many people would by a 2 seat rotary now. This in turn would help Mazda (and ford) gauge projected production numbers of the engine and possibly the need for a new plant. If warranted, they could expand to ramp up production of the Renesis engine to meet demand for reman 13b's and the new MS RX-5 as well as allow the RX-3 and RX-7 projects to coem off the shelf and no longer be skunkworks.

Anyway, thats my theory on it. Soooo, if you didn't follow, I do believe the miata would have the renesis as an option, which would help the viability for the RX-7, RX-9 and RX-3.

[edit- Ooops, had to edit my clippings out.]

Although people argue that the RX-8 was never meant to be a 4th gen RX-7, the RX-8 is the current successor to the 7. In fact, when they were developing the 3rd gen RX-7, they were strongly thinking of naming it the RX-8 at that time (a little tid bit from Yamaguchi's book on the FD3S 3rd gen. RX-7). So the two cars are probably more alike than they are different. Not so with the Cosmo.

The same comment was made in the 2nd Gen Yamaguchi Book.

Maybe we should ask Miata owners if they would be offended by a rotary powered version of their car. One of the only shortcomings ever listed by them is lack of power and the renesis creates more torque from 3000 rpms than the BP 1.8 does at peak. All the serious Miata loyalists I've spoken to are thrilled at the suggestion of Wankel power as an option.

OK, I am an ex Miata owner, I sold my 97 Miata before I bought my 8 a few weeks ago. I would hate to see a rotary engine in the Miata, it goes against everything the Miata is supposed to be. First of I, and a lot of other Miata owners never complained about the car's supposed lack of power, the Miata has plenty of power for what it is and what it is supposed to do. The Miata was created as an updated version of the classic Brittish roadster, ever driven a MGB or a TR6? Heck ever driven a Lotus Elan? None of these cars were terribly powerful by todays standards, but they were an absolute blast in the twisties, so is the Miata, if anything it might be more fun than the old Brittish roadsters (if for no other reason than you can be pretty sure it will start every time you turn the key). I hope Mazda NEVER turns the Miata, in its normal configuration, into a high powered beast.

Now you may be wondering why, if I feel this way about Miatas, I bought an 8. Out of everything I drove that had a back seat and somethign resembling a trunk (things that have recently become important to me) the 8 handled the best. Plain and simple. The fact that it has a rotary engine didn't mean much to me, I mean I knew a little about roatries and had always admired the 1st and 3rd generation RX-7's (sorry, the 2nd generations 7's were damn ugly in my opinion) but the fact that it didn't have any pistons never came into my buying decision. I wanted a great handling car that my elderly father could get into and out of with relative ease. The 8 fit the bill.

Easy, I am sure that Mazda will still offer a piston engine for the Miata. It seems most people think that there will be a small sports car on the Miata/RX8 platform with a rotary engine available. I would love to see that, some competition for the Elise.

If Mazda put a rotary in the Miata it wouldn't necessarily go againts the car's design philosophy. The motor wouldn't have to be high hp or do anything to ruin the balanced performance. The rotary could, however, help the car handle even better buy making the car lighter and it could allow designers more freedom with the fornt end of the car since the rotary is alittle smaller than a 4 cylinder.

mazda didn't want to put a 13B in the original miata because of cost considerations, that it would make the car too expensive. now over the years miata price crept up, so that now the most expensive miata costs about the same as the base RX-8. but the roadster market is different now, too. there are so many and most of 'em have real high performance. i personally prefer the new miata to stick to the original spirit, cheap, light, fun, which i'm sure will be the case. but i also would love for them to have a flagship version that's comparable to the s2000, that means with a RENESIS. it'd be more expensive, low-volume, and quite a little screamer, and super awesome. just think, mazda'd have two serious rwd sports cars in their lineup. that'd be sweet

Yeah, split the model range. The base Miata needs to be cut in price about $4-5k while the next MS edition should be around $30k and get a more serious boost in power, handling, and more dramatic exterior tweaks over the base model compared to the current MS edition. That way the car would be more affordable again for those looking to buy a new sports car on a budget, while those seeking a serious roadster to battle the z4, s2000, ect. would get their wishes as well.

I think the RX8 is just fine with it's 2+2 seating and 2++ doors. Mazda made the change because they could not sell RX-7's no more. The car became to pricey and unpractical for most buyers...I guess.

They are really making good sales with the 8 so I don't think they will see a reason to change that.

With that said, I always wanted a RX-7 and I never had the joy of getting one. The car STILL looks great till this day.

I really like my RX8, but it isn't going to work as my only car. I am keeping my PT Cruiser since a) it gets better gas mileage, b) it will hold four adults (with the RX8 it had better be a short trip), c) it snows (I know I can get snow tires, but there's still a wheel base problem in deep snow), and d) it can haul stuff.

I used to have Jeep, but I don't think I could stand driving an SUV anymore -- even it were a hybrid. Driving the RX8 has only given me greater appreciation for much more fun the Cruiser is to drive than the Jeep was. Therefore, let me hereby express my interest in Mazda bringing the Mazda5 to the United States with (this is key) a manual transmission. A Mazdaspeed edition would be even better. Don't laugh -- if Porsche can make an SUV then surely Mazda could put out a turbo (or rotary) mini-van.