I'm planning to purchase a new 04 RX8. The inventory search on Mazda shows VIN for each vehicle. Does anyone know how to determine build date by checking the VIN? Thanks.

Well, my VIN ends in 128128. My build date is Dec 2003. So take it from there.. If you look on the driver side door jam, you'll see the build date stamped right next to the proper tire pressures.

Try to get one with a VIN after 40135536. That should equate to a built date in March-April 04. All the bugs were worked out by then. Mine was built in April 04- fantastic car.