So should I buy one? There's so much info here I'm intimidated. It shure is a beautiful car.

Maybe some of you could tell me why you bought this car instead of the competition?

I test drove BMW 540i, Infiniti G35, Lexus SC, Acura TL, and others. The BMWs have reliability problems, the Infiniti is over-priced, and the others just didn't have "the look" nor the handling. Actually, my wife said, "The RX is the most unique car, and those others are for old folks . . . buy the RX-8!"

That's all the convincing I needed!

don't take our word for it, test drive one!

i test drove the G35 coupe, WRX STi and Nissan 350Z along with the 8.

G35: nicest car overall. about $5-7k more than other three
STi: ugly four door thing. great engine and AWD
350Z: inside was very plain and cheap looking. great engine. no back seat (space and insurance issues)

drove the 8 and just fell in love. less power than others, but much more stylish and just "felt" good to drive. wasnt a no brainer at that point. sometimes i wish i had 280 hp and 280 torque of the Z but thats only once in a while.

Test drove LOTS of cars. Acura TSX, WRX-STi, Evo VIII, 350Z, G35, 2002 BMW M3, etc. When all was said and done, the G35 and the RX-8 were the finalists. Went with the '8 because it was more unique, and because the G35 has reliability and materials quality problems. Also because the nearest Infinity dealer is ~ 70 miles away through Denver (shudder!) traffic. Haven't looked back since.

So should I buy one? There's so much info here I'm intimidated. It shure is a beautiful car.

Maybe some of you could tell me why you bought this car instead of the competition?

Well, what are you looking for in a car? I test drove a Z33, and a 2003 Mustang Cobra. I was also considering an FD3S, a JZA80, an EVO VIII that was on the lot next door to our Mazda dealership, and an STi. I love all of these cars, but unfortunately I haven't won the lottery yet (some punk just had to win that $290 million. From Massachusetts? Isn't nearly everyone there rich?). I came home with my RX-8, because I wanted a car that was unique. I don't think there is another sports car out there that is built like the RX-8. I hope you can make the right choice for yourself :).