I'm in the market for a car and well, I've been researching the RX-8, took it for a test drive and so far I love it! Its my first time ever buying a new car, :D so I had a few questions that I was hoping someone could help or clarify for me.

1) Snow tires - Since I live in central NJ and travel to south NJ for work, I guess I should invest in a couple sets of snow tires when winter comes around. Any suggestions as to what brand and size?

2) Price - I'm thinking of getting a AT, GTP, AP, RAP, 6-CD Changer, spare tire kit. Whats been your experience with dealers in NJ? Any dealer recommendations or have you dealt with HamiltonMazda? And have you been able to get your 8 below the invoice price? If the dealers don't have what I want, how easy is it to order one and wait for it?

3) Accessories - Buying rear door trim protectors, fender strakes, wheel locks, aluminum accelerator predal/brake pedal/foot rest, aluminum door sill trim plates, gear shift knob & parking brake lever. How easy is it to install it yourself or should I just let the dealer install all of it?

4) DVD Navigation system - Is it any good or am I better off not getting it and saving money? Or is it better buying an after-market GPS system? What about updates?

5) Alarm shock sensor upgrade - What does this do for you?

6) AT or MT :D I've never driven MT and since its spring now, I'm thinking maybe I'll get enough practice with MT before winter hits. What do you think?

7) Insurance - Anybody want to share how much it is for you in NJ? Since I'm 23, I'm thinking $300 per month should be adequate considering the fact I've no tickets on my record.

8) Where can I find TSBs or shouldn't I worry about them since I'm buying a 8 now?

9) Since I drive something like 90 miles a day, thinking of getting an extended warranty. Maybe 5 year/100,000 miles. Any opinions?

Phew, that should be enough for now. If I think of any more, I'll post them. ;) Thanks in advance.

Jeff

1 - snow? what's that. (in TX)
2- can't help
3- INSTALL all accessories yourself, super easy, not too hard, and those darn techs won't break anything
labor charges are ridiculous (ex- bought a trunk tray, plastic to hold my dirty cleats, dealer accidently charged me the install - $20 bucks to just unfold and place in trunk!!)
4 - No DVD for me
5 - Alarm shock sensor- put it in mine, the alarm sounds if somebody/ car hits it (currently, the sound goes off only if the doors/trunk are opened.)
6 - Definietly MT, auto's are no fun , plus much less hp for the AT RX8,
7 - Holy cow- $300/mnth is good? I pay $100/mnth in TX 28yrs old, have a friend 24yrs old that got a DWI and his is $300/mth.
8- http://www.finishlineperformance.com/rx8/docs/index.html
9 - no warranty for me, 4yrs/50k is good enough for anything major

Don't forget.......Manual Transmission 6 speed!!!!

Let me address one point only - if you drive 90 miles a day then this might not be the car for you unless you are truley OK with having to fill it up ever 3rd or fourth day. Dont get me wrong, I love my car, but this is something that you should consider with $2.00 gas .........

Yeah I thought about that. I'm hoping I can get 20 mpg on average. Its gonna be expensive but hopefully I can get a second car eventually.

Jeff

My answer to some of you questions (in no particular order):

Get the MT - you'll have the hang of it within a week. The 8 is not especially difficult MT to drive. You'll never regret it!

At 23 with a good driving record you should not be paying $300/mo for insurance! The 8 gets very reasonable rates for a sports car.

You should not have a problem achieving 20 mpg hwy as long as you don't drive 80-90 mph. Maybe even better, depending on you car. Expect less mpg if you do (I will usually get low to mid 17 mpg at driving at these speeds on the hwy).

I've only seen a few people who claim to have gotten their 8 below invoice. The factory incentives just aren't there (besides the $500 for recent college grads) and I don't think most dealers are not willing to cut into the holdback. Some have mentioned a $1500 incentive for leases, but I've never seen it from Mazda. The best deal most people get it for around 2% over invoice - which is pretty good IMO unless the manufacturer is offering massive incentives (which Mazda is not for the 8 . . . at the moment).

You should not get a couple sets of snow tires - just one set will do! :)

I'm getting my rx8 next month and I started to get insurance quotes and I got quoted 670 for full coverage through Geico for 6 months, im 21 and live in tx., that should help.

Anyone got their 8 with the stock MP3 player? Any info as to what brand/model it is and how well it works? Or am I better off getting an aftermarket mp3 player?

Jeff

I drive over 90 miles a day and so far, so good. Yeah, I have to fill up every 3rd day. But since it's mostly highway miles, my mileage is actually better than most people's. It's the short trips that kill you in the '8. :)

Originally posted by SiMplyBluE
Anyone got their 8 with the stock MP3 player? Any info as to what brand/model it is and how well it works? Or am I better off getting an aftermarket mp3 player?

Jeff

The RX-8 radio is behind a molded panel on the dashboard, it is not DIN sized like in most cars... The only MP3 player you can get that fits the radio is the one sold by Mazda, as it replaces the stock CD player. You cannot have the 6 CD-changer and MP3 player installed at the same time, it's one or the other. Also, there are no additional RCA or auxillary plugs for an iPod, Music Keg, or any other MP3 jukebox... You'll have to use an FM modulator... Just some things to consider...

As for accessories, buy them aftermarket from a dealer, ebay or Mazda aftermarket parts seller and install them yourself. Many of the parts you listed are not major mods. The dealer will charge you their normal hourly rate (usually around $60 an hour) to install them. Take a few hours and save money by installing them yourself. Also, my car came with wheel locks from the dealer. I don't think i was charged for them. I think they're stock with 18" wheels.

As for the navi system. If you want it, get it. I would never install an aftermarket GPS in my car. They are big, bulky and will never match the interior as well as the stock unit. I'll let other members fill you in on how well the stock system works since I don't have it. I assume updates are handled by replacing the DVD that runs the system. I don't know if Mazda has an update program in place.

AT or MT? For me it was a decision based on the amount of traffic I have to put up with on my commutes to work and school, roughly 20 miles (45-50 minutes) each way in Southern CA traffic. I chose the AT. It has a nice manual mode, with paddles behind the steering wheel, that works REALLY well. The manual mode WILL NOT shift for you and will hold the gear inifinitly, only dropping to first gear when you stop--a feature I really like. You'll take a 30hp penalty choosing the AT, but I haven't been dissapointed yet.

I concur with the last post. I chose the automatic tranny for the same reasons. Have not been disappointed. Utlimately, you have to make that decision based on your driving situation. I test drove the manual, and boy was it fun! I use the manual mode in my auto, and boy, is it fun!!

Originally posted by SiMplyBluE
1) Snow tires - Since I live in central NJ and travel to south NJ for work, I guess I should invest in a couple sets of snow tires when winter comes around. Any suggestions as to what brand and size?

6) AT or MT :D I've never driven MT and since its spring now, I'm thinking maybe I'll get enough practice with MT before winter hits. What do you think?


1) Yup, winter tires are essential for winter use. There are several extensive threads in the Tires and Wheels section of the forum, and in the Canada regional section. If you do a forum search for 'winter tires' in those sections, you'll see the discussions that have taken place, with specifics on the various brands, sizes, and wheels.

6) You'll be a pro with a manual trans by fall! By summer, even. Go for it! :)

Regards,
Gordon

1- you definately want snow tires. ive been stuck to the point i had to be picked up. 17" blizzacks are always a good choice, but that requires new wheels too. 18" winters are out there, but hard to find

2- i got mine for invoice, then the college credit so i acheived under. youre much more likely to get this on a car they have in stock, which may mean sacrificing some items. if theyre ordering it for you they have no incentive to give you a great rate.

3- most should be easy enough to install, however ive been told that you get them for a better price if you buy them with the car, which would equal dealer instillation

6- if youre getting an at, dont bother buying a car like this :)

7- i just turned 24 and have a few speeding tickets and am paying about $1600/year in central ohio. however, it seems that i am getting a great deal b/c my parents are also insured by them and they have some nice toys. for the hell of it, i responded to a progressive flyer and the best they could do was $800 more than what i was paying. best bet is to call up your agent and get a quote beforehand.

The help has been great!! Appreciate everyones feedback. I agree that the tranny I get depends on my commute since its gonna be my daily car. Looks like I'm leaning towards the AT :confused: But then again look at the bright side - I'm getting a freakin RX-8!!!! So after reading all the comments here, this is what I've decided to get -

RX-8 AT, Winning Blue, GTP, AP, RAP, Navi Sys & Spare TK

I'll buy a MP3 and XM Radio unit. So you're sure I can't use an aftermarket MP3 player even if I'm not getting the 6-CD changer?

As for the rest, i.e. rear door trim protectors, fender strakes, aluminum accelerator predal/brake pedal/foot rest, aluminum door sill trim plates, gear shift knob & parking brake lever, hopefully I find DIY for all of them. So what do you think?

Jeff

Originally posted by SiMplyBluE
So you're sure I can't use an aftermarket MP3 player even if I'm not getting the 6-CD changer?
Jeff

Jeff, Define what you mean by 'aftermarket MP3 player.'

The Mazda factory MP3 player and 6 CD changer are both in-dash and take up the same spot as the standard CD player.

Well how about a Sony CDX-MP70 (http://xmradio.com/catalog/product_detail.jsp?id=28192&type=Radio) or Pioneer DEH-P8400MP (http://xmradio.com/catalog/product_detail.jsp?id=28217&type=Radio)? I guess my intention is to have a single MP3 and XM Radio unit. But now I'm wondering if I can still control the volume using the buttons on the steering wheel?

But tell me this, how does the factory MP3 player compare to others? Any bad experiences with it?

Jeff

Jeff, Where are you going to mount a DIN sized MP3 Player??? have you seen the dash of an RX-8?!?!

http://www.triplezoom.com/gallery/generated//01%20Mazda/RX-8/Interior%20Design/018__scaled_600.jpg

That whole radio/HVAC panel is not modifyable. A DIN sized radio (like the one's you just posted links to) WILL NOT fit there. This is one car where the radio CAN NOT be changed out for another.

Here's more information about the stock MP3 player... http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7644

cant find the thread, but someone was saying that its just a simple din unit behind all of that. he had pictures of his torn apart and it looked pretty normal to me, but id check w/a dealer first

Originally posted by kellybrf
cant find the thread, but someone was saying that its just a simple din unit behind all of that. he had pictures of his torn apart and it looked pretty normal to me, but id check w/a dealer first

Yes it is a DIN unit behind. But how are you going to control it with the RX-8 dash buttons? You can't. So until someone makes an aftermarket facia to facilitate switching the stock radio, you're stuck with what you purchase from the dealer.

Originally posted by stangmatt66
Jeff, Where are you going to mount a DIN sized MP3 Player??? have you seen the dash of an RX-8?!?!

That whole radio/HVAC panel is not modifyable. A DIN sized radio (like the one's you just posted links to) WILL NOT fit there. This is one car where the radio CAN NOT be changed out for another.

Here's more information about the stock MP3 player... http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7644

Ok that clarifies it for me. Thanks for the info. I've contacted the dealers and waiting to hear back from them. Only one of them had something close to what I wanted but without the Navi system and STK. But I definitely want the Navi system, so hopefully I can find the 8 I want.

Jeff

Ok so I located a 8 that has the a Winning Blue AT, GTP, AP, RAP and the Navi Sys. No STK, but I can buy that later and install it myself, though it doesn't come with a tire, right??

Now my dilemna is that the dealership is 80 miles away. So should I strike a deal over the phone, drive and get it? Or just contact the dealer who is a mile away and get them to get it for me??? I don't think the second route is going to be cheap since they're going out of the way to get it for me. Anybody have a similar experience or recommendations?

Jeff

Jeff, I've made dealerships go get cars for me in the past and I've never seen them add any charges. It all depends on how much they want to make a deal and how willing the other dealership is to give up their RX-8...lol...

GOOD LUCK!

BTW anyone know what kind of extended warranties Mazda has in the US for the 8?

Called the dealership to check if they still had that 8 on their lot, waiting to hear back from them.

Jeff

Do dealers get paid a factory holdback once they've sold a 8 like 2-3% of the invoice price? If so, I wanted to factor it into my calculations before making an offer.

Thanks,
Jeff

yes, it all depends on the volume of the dealership. i purchased it at the highest volume dealer in oh, and supposedly one of the higher ones in the midwest. they said they got either 2 or 2.5% (its been a while, i forget but i know it wasnt 3) which seemed low to me for such a high volume dealer. definately bring it up in the latter stages of your negotiation.

you might also just want to go in to the negotiations and say ill buy this car if you can give it to me for $500 under invoice, just be prepared to actually buy it if they say yes.

Originally posted by kellybrf
you might also just want to go in to the negotiations and say ill buy this car if you can give it to me for $500 under invoice, just be prepared to actually buy it if they say yes.

Thats of course without Tax+Title+Registraion right?

Jeff

let us know when you get it and how you like it. If you are like the rest of us, you will fall in love!!

Originally posted by SiMplyBluE
Ok so I located a 8 that has the a Winning Blue AT, GTP, AP, RAP and the Navi Sys. No STK, but I can buy that later and install it myself, though it doesn't come with a tire, right??
Right; that's the issue that makes it better to locate one with the factory spare tire kit if you can.

The dealer option does not come with a tire, but the factory (really port) option does, meaning you're going to have to spend around an extra $125 to buy the spare tire as a dealer option rather than a port option.

Small change compared to the price of the car, I know, but still IMHO a bit of a ripoff... :eek:

Originally posted by BillK
Right; that's the issue that makes it better to locate one with the factory spare tire kit if you can.

The dealer option does not come with a tire, but the factory (really port) option does, meaning you're going to have to spend around an extra $125 to buy the spare tire as a dealer option rather than a port option.

So my idea of maybe hooking up an extra 18' wheel in the trunk won't work? That ways if I ever do get a flat, I won't have a hideous looking spare on my car :D So is it possible?

Jeff

Its been two days and that dealership hasn't called me back. Called them today and left a voicemail for the sales rep I talked to on the phone!! Don't they want my business???

Called a dealer who is a mile away from my home, sales rep said he'll call me within the hour. He doesn't call me back either! I mean, c'mon!!! Sorry I had to rant somewhere......

Jeff

Well, its looks like I might have to get a 8 with the rear spoiler.... I don't want the spoiler. IMO (and I know I'll catch flack for this) its reminds me too much of the older Eclipse with a spoiler. So now the dilemna is, buy the 8 with the spoiler now or order, wait 3 months and get the 8 I want. But I can't wait 3 months.... Sigh.... :confused:

Jeff

Originally posted by SiMplyBluE
Thats of course without Tax+Title+Registraion right?

Jeff

well you could always try :) but youre correct, thats w/o all that fun stuff.

youre going to get a better deal on a car they have in stock, so if you can live w/the spoiler (i think it makes the car look infinately better, but thats just me!) then id say go for it.

Well if you get a Nordic Green instead of a Blue let me know. I'll trade trunks with ya. :D