View Full Version : Who is happy with their RX-8?


mindgames
08-12-2003, 05:32 PM
I want the RX-8 but can't get one for at least few more months. :confused:

I had 1986 RX-7 and there was nothing like it.
Only one word to describe my RX-7 = FUN! :p

So I am curios to know who has finally received their RX-8 and has used it for at least 1000miles.

Wonder what does feel like driving it everyday?

Are you Happy with it?

Does any one drive it to work on daily basis?

Has anyone had major issues with it?

I know it's allot to ask but I hope we have a few spamer that will care to give hand to a RX Lover!
Now the place I will get behind the wheel the RX-8 is at the Mazda Show Room Floor. LOL

Thanks, Mindgames!:D

jd62
08-12-2003, 05:40 PM
My wife loves hers, and I get to drive it every now and then. We've had no problems at all so far, but it's only got about 700 miles on it.

B-Nez
08-12-2003, 06:24 PM
I just turned 1000 during my commute home tonight. I LOVE my RX-8! For the record, it is a 6MT Grand Touring. I drive it 32 miles to work every day through THICK commuter traffic. The first 15-20 miles is State HWY (65 mph limit), followed by a few miles of typical in-town traffic, followed by a few miles of Air Force base stop & go 25 mph max. The reverse trip is even worse and takes twice as long on a good day. Usually takes me 20 minutes just to clear the base gate. I would not be happy with any other car. Most days during my commute I don't really get to rev it up and have some fun, so I make a quick trip during lunch or from the house in the evening to get my fix. I haven't had any of the problems other folks have reported with engline lights or oil lights. My A/C doesn't even cycle all that much. This is in NW Florida were it is either hot and humid, or rainy and humid. I run it on recirc for the 1st 2 minutes, then on fresh the rest of the time. I think recirc lets the pump freeze to quickly. After 2 minutes, it is just cold enough, and another couple of minutes on fresh, and it's nice and cool. On the highway it gets too cold and I turn it down, or re-aim the vents.

Oh, and I used to drive a 1991 RX-7 (NA), and loved that car. I like this even better! :D

compaddict
08-12-2003, 06:39 PM
3000 miles and love it!

Vince

DisneyDestroyer
08-12-2003, 07:36 PM
1700+ and loving every mile!

Biggest complaint I've had / heard is that there's not much passenger leg room in the front seat because of that little hump. I drive solo so frequently I just don't care.

As for looks, last weekend I had an Escalade drive up and one of the rear-seat passengers roll down their windows and take a picture of me in my car. I smiled for the camera.

TJRX8
08-12-2003, 08:00 PM
About 1100 miles and love it. Some very minor nit-picks. Still get lots of looks and questions everywhere I go.

Oh yeah, this is car number 26 and my favorite!

mantisflie
08-12-2003, 08:16 PM
1700 + miles and loving it more every day! I drive mine to work every day (70 mile round trip) and it really takes the dreariness out of the daily commute. That's now my favorite part of the day. Absolutely NO problems so far. Okay, maybe one. Everyone is attracted to this car. I wasn't ready for the attention and am still not sure if I like it. Sometimes it's nice, but not every 30 seconds while driving around. Gas mileage isn't the best, but hey, it's a sports car. Hang in there mindgames. This car is definetly worth the wait!! :D

neomicro
08-12-2003, 09:16 PM
2,800 and although I still have more fun driving my RX-7, but this is really a nice car. I use this as a daily driver. After break in, I took it on a trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles and back. Very nice car on the open road and a lot more comfortable that the RX-7 for a long drive (the suspension does a better job of soaking up the bumps). It is very stable and smooth at high speed. I only have one complaint so far and that is the gas mileage of about 15-16 mpg. Of course I have a heavy foot and like to rev these rotary engines so I am probably causing my own poor gas mileage.
Yes, the car does attract a lot of attention so be prepared to have people slowing down next to you on the freeway, gathering around your car in parking lots etc.
It was well worth the $35K I paid for it.

RX8-U-UP
08-12-2003, 09:19 PM
1700 miles, no problems, drive it stop and go to and from work everyday (25 miles round trip), still find time to hit 8K. Best part of my day is taking the wife for long drive every night, and longer drives on the weekend. She absolutely loves to ride in it. Looks great, everyone knows it, and makes it a point to let you know. Fun, Fun, Fun. I used to have an 89 RX-7 convertable, and like the 8 better.

Genom
08-12-2003, 09:28 PM
5 days, 315 miles. I live near my job, but my fiance is 42 miles away. I typically speend 3-4 days at her house, so have that long commute in the mornings. LOVE THEM now. I've been using the car constantly to visit customer sites and drive in heavy Miami traffic on a regular basis. With all the rain the last few days traffic has been really heavy, but I like the car so much, it's just an excuse to spend more time in it :D

Mileage isnt all that yet, but I too tend to start up a bit quick. Not racing it mind you, just feeling it and also been running AC almost all the time. Once the weather improves I think I will be able to hit 20MPG on a regular basis, and thats good enough for me.

Love the car!

TomsterRX8
08-12-2003, 09:39 PM
It's a fun car but I can't say its a great commuter car. It all depends what you're used to. My BMW 330 coupe was a MUCH more comfortable commuter/long distance car. And it was just as much fun to drive. But for $9,000 less, the RX8 does an admirable job.

rowentx
08-13-2003, 12:38 AM
I love it and look forward to driving it everyday. I'm worried about the potential horsepower issues devaluing the car, but otherwise am quite pleased.

zoom-zoom:D

eccles
08-13-2003, 12:49 AM
Loving every minute of it.

A few minor niggles, and I'll be happier once the horsepower question is put to bed, but on the whole I'm a very happy camper, using every possible excuse to get behind the wheel.

Good Duck
08-13-2003, 01:27 AM
It's awesome and every mile bring another smiles. It's only three weeks old. As for mileage, check my sig; I updated this daily. I only lived 3.7 miles from work so I don't accumulate many miles from commuting. I supplement this with daily cruising to no particular destinations. It's a good way to meet people. It's also a great excuse for visiting friends/family in other cities. Of course there are nitpicks, but they're minor and nothing worth mentioning. I do have one major complain though, but not with the 8. There're too many other cars on the road and they're driving too slowly!

graphicguy
08-13-2003, 08:55 AM
Truth told, after owning everything from American Muscle cars to MGBs to 300ZXs to BMWs to lux mobiles, I'm happier with this purchase than any of the others. This is, by far, the best made car I've ever owned in addition to being the best blend of speed, handling, comfort that I've ever seen (including some lengthy test drives of the 350Z....cheap interior, rode like a brick, questionable build quality).

I find different reasons everyday to drive it for no good reason. I just want to drive.


I get a lot of attention with it, too (sometimes unwanted).

BRx8
08-13-2003, 09:13 AM
this is only my second car that i've bought on my own, (first being a 3000GT and 3 other cars were pass me downs from my mom - i'm 26 years old)...anyhow, i love it...i thought i'd be missing my GT which i grew into but i love this car...i find myself taking trips out and just getting lost with no where to actually go...i find myself calling people like a salesman wanting to show them this car...they all love it too...when they get inside the car their eyes just light up with all the gadgets i have in there...

i give it a big thumbs up for value, attractiveness, appeal, uniqueness, handling, comfort, etc...

Wing
08-13-2003, 09:38 AM
I've only had the car a week, but I'm loving it, got 850km on the car and took it for a 1.5 hour trip and it was sooo comfy compared to my previous car (hyundai tiburon). I drove the tiburon 2500Km to WInnipeg from Ottawa and back and it was fairly comfy. That trip would be AWESOME in the 8.... only VERY expensive on fuel.

Loving the car, hope it doesn't ware off!

Speed Racer
08-13-2003, 10:19 AM
After putting on over 2700 miles I still find myself looking for any excuse to take the car for a spin. The car is a blast to drive and I'm always finding myself taking the long way home so that I can enjoy it a little bit longer.

The funny thing is that the car makes you feel like a celebrity (at least where I live). Every day I see people pointing, waving, and looking more than a little slack jawed when I drive by and if I happen to be stopped they come over to get a closer look and ask about the car. All of the attention just adds another dimension to the car that does not show up on its spec sheet.

The car is not the fastest, best handling, or most fuel efficient car that I have driven but it by far provides the most satisfaction by being good at every thing and subjectively the best overall. I hope that you'll enjoy yours as much as I'm enjoying mine. :)

Puppy1
08-13-2003, 10:26 AM
It hit 1,300 miles today and have loved every one of them! The car is incredible still. Nothing but raves from everyone who rides with me. I get such a kick opening up the rear doors. Had my first adult passenger back there last night. He's a pretty big guy (225lbs) and he thought it was pretty roommy for a small car, and even "awsome" for a sports car.

Every time I dirve my old car it seems cheeper and cheeper. The 8 is an excellent blend of sport, comfort and civility. I could never go back to a bland luxury car again.

My only complaint is that I have become addicted with the high reving engine. My lead foot has kicked in. Originally I was getting about 20 mpg/city, on the last tank only 18.

eccles
08-13-2003, 10:48 AM
Originally posted by Speed Racer
The funny thing is that the car makes you feel like a celebrity (at least where I live). Every day I see people pointing, waving, and looking more than a little slack jawed when I drive by and if I happen to be stopped they come over to get a closer look and ask about the car. All of the attention just adds another dimension to the car that does not show up on its spec sheet.Either Austinites are harder to impress, or I'm driving around the wrong parts of town - in three weeks I've had a total of five strangers comment on the car or give any sort of acknowledgement.

mindgames
08-13-2003, 11:09 AM
Wow great responses I love it!

Not to say I expected to hear any bad news!

Once RX lover always RX lover!

;)

Thank You Everyone for your quick response.

Mindgames

Elara
08-13-2003, 11:10 AM
Originally posted by eccles
Either Austinites are harder to impress, or I'm driving around the wrong parts of town - in three weeks I've had a total of five strangers comment on the car or give any sort of acknowledgement.

Eccles, same here. We've had the car since Saturday, and had only one person we didn't know make any comments. Maybe people just don't have any idea what they are yet.

spindoc
08-13-2003, 04:00 PM
Great car. Fun, excellent balance, cool, well-designed, comfortable. No power problems (or any others, for that matter).

Speed Racer
08-13-2003, 04:14 PM
Originally posted by eccles
Either Austinites are harder to impress, or I'm driving around the wrong parts of town - in three weeks I've had a total of five strangers comment on the car or give any sort of acknowledgement.

That's too bad, you're missing out on half of the fun! ;)

Pete
08-13-2003, 04:27 PM
1200km and loving it

Deep Blue
08-13-2003, 06:21 PM
Originally posted by TomsterRX8
It's a fun car but I can't say its a great commuter car. It all depends what you're used to. My BMW 330 coupe was a MUCH more comfortable commuter/long distance car. And it was just as much fun to drive. But for $9,000 less, the RX8 does an admirable job.

As an interesting counterpoint, I also had a 2001 BMW 330Ci prior to the RX-8, and I feel the exact opposite.

I think the RX-8 is 10 times the fun factor, not detracting from the 330, which was an awesome car, but it was just a plain, 2 door, with tonnes of power. The 8 feels much more exhilarating, and I find handles much better.

Similarly, I commute an hour each way to work, and I find it as nice or nicer in terms of comfort...mainly because I found the 330Ci gave me (and a buddy of mine who also had one) lower back problems. The RX-8 seats are tight, and if properly adjusted, very comfortable.


Loving every minute of this car.

Kurt Bob
08-13-2003, 08:18 PM
I've got 2200 miles on it and I love it. It is the perfect car for me, for the following reasons:

*It is quick and very responsive
*Holds my family of 4
*Rotary power
*High quality
*Rides well and is very comfortable for a sports car
*Well engineered
*Bold design

It's everything I had hoped it would be...and more.

zerohour
08-13-2003, 08:45 PM
One week and 1025 miles later and I simply love this car...... Which is why the 1025 miles......... Im going to try to calm down on the driving now tho.

I havent taken this car past 6k RPM and im still so in awe of it. To me it is pure driving excellence. I have had a RSX type s and although i love my RSX this car has handeling, I think the power is better than my modded RSX and i could keep up to a G35 to the end of my fifth gear where he would slowly begin to crawl away.

God you really have to feel the 8 at speed on turns... Drool.

This car is just awsome no buts about it. The only negative i would have to admit is the fuel economy.........If your getting this car for fuel economy however you are getting the wrong car alltogether.

I may be paying this off for a couple years but Ill be doing it with a smile on my face that is for sure!

TJRX8
08-13-2003, 10:08 PM
Originally posted by Elara
Eccles, same here. We've had the car since Saturday, and had only one person we didn't know make any comments. Maybe people just don't have any idea what they are yet.

Really? I had at least 5 today and I only drove it to dinner tonight. Sunday I had someone take a couple pictures from his car and no less than 10 other people yell out their windows or give me thumbs-up. One guy in a BMW X-5 followed me to the gas station and jumped out of his car. He came at me so fast I thought he was looking for a fight, figured I must have cut him off up the road. He just wanted to ask me about the car.
I would be lieing if I said less than 100 people have shown an interest in various levels.

myrx8
08-13-2003, 10:14 PM
I drove the St. Louis to pick up my car and drove to Kansas City. I love the car. I get looks when I fill up at the gas station (The RX-8 sucks down gas like you wouldn't believe).

RX-8 Zoomster
08-14-2003, 10:52 AM
used it for at least 1000miles.
We have had ours for little over 3 weeks and it only has about 275 miles on it.

Wonder what does feel like driving it everyday?
I wish to hell I knew. :(

Are you Happy with it?
Yes, I'm happy, not not as happy as my wife when she sneaks it out of the garage for a drive.

Does any one drive it to work on daily basis?
Not yet. Spends most of the time in the garage till I get back. :D

Has anyone had major issues with it?
My wife has told me the only issue is when she has to answer questions and show the car to anyone inquiring about it. She hates that since she doesn't have all the answers, so that's probably one of the reasons she's letting it sit till I come home.

firstmazda
08-14-2003, 12:33 PM
Have had my RX8 for 10 days and I have over 1000 miles on it, my commute to work is about 40 miles one way. I love the car, no problems at all. It gets a tremendous amount of attention, whether I am stopped at a gas station filling up (unfortunately this is more frequent than I would like), or going down the highway. The car handles like a dream, and contrary to somethings I have read on the forum, it is fast, you just have to get used to the clutch and the high revs.

antman_x
08-14-2003, 06:51 PM
I love mine too! Finally broke her in and man I love drving my 8. The only thing I hate is I've become obsessed with keeping her clean. I know I'll get over it and stop being super anal but damn the car looks so bad ass. My fiance laughs at me because when ever I walk away from the car I look back like 3-4 times. Funny.

khoney
08-14-2003, 10:04 PM
I had mine for a week before I went on a 2-week vacation (in a Trooper, unfortunately). I'll be back in town in two days, and I don't think I've ever looked forward to the end of a vacation until now!

rotarymagic
08-14-2003, 10:28 PM
overall, most fun car I have driven. Have had more positive comments from strangers than I can remember.

allstate
08-14-2003, 10:40 PM
I can't even pull over and get gas without people coming over and looking at it. I also came out of the grocery store today where I found someone peaking in my windows. Being the prankster I am I quickly hit the panic button

Puppy1
08-15-2003, 10:27 AM
Every evening when I go to my car I find new faceprints on the window glass.

But if no one ever even stopped me, talked to me or waved me down, the way this car drives puts the biggest grin on my face.

Kawi
08-15-2003, 10:29 AM
This car fits me to a 'T'. Style, space, ride, performance, price...pretty much everything I was looking for. I'm extremely glad I bought it.

graphicguy
08-15-2003, 11:05 AM
You know, whenever I go to the grocery or to pay for gas, I always come out to see "two crescent moon" smudges on the glass from people "cupping" both their hands to block the shadows as they look into the car.

Elara
08-15-2003, 11:07 AM
I am in love with this car. Only driven it 10 miles on my own, (but a lot in the passenger seat) and it is the smoothest shifting and easiest car I have ever driven (exept for the Miata).

rotarymotory
08-15-2003, 11:28 AM
250 miles and God I love this car. It's tight and flat and so-o-o-o quick. I don't understand the complaints about low-end power at all. You just have to learn how to drive it. Grunt around town like you're in your old z-28 Camaro and you'll be very unhappy. Learn to drive a rotary and enjoy the magic. I love how it teases and demands that you master it.

I love watching friends take the wheel for the first time. They drive all wrong, with off-throttle jerking shifting like they've only driven a stick on a racing simulator X-box game.

Every day it gets smoother and smoother. Everything is working better by the mile. And I love the noises coming from up front. A constant reminder that you're not in Kansas anymore.

The steering is to die for. And it stays so sweet even going FAST. I thought it might get twitchy or too light up in the triple digits, but I couldn't be happier.

The rear suspension is amazing. Amazing. It feels like it knows what I'm thinking.

I even love the cruise control. Finally someone gets it. You just make the accel button an accelerator. A real accelerator. Wow.

And last night I discovered the CD storage compartment. Pretty clever.

My only complaint is the passenger side rear view mirror. Too small for city work or fun freeways and it's functionally upside-down. With the large C pillar the Mazda engineers could have been a little more helpful here. I'm gonna need to get one of those soccer-mom stick-on things(man, I hate that) or else find a good body shop.

Let's talk.
RM

donald121
08-15-2003, 11:47 AM
1300 miles.

Like about this car:
Smooth, very smooth!
Not that fast, but fast enough for me.
Nice interior & exterior design.
Getting a lot of attension on the street.
Sensitive brake.
Nice engine sound.

Dislike:
Lack of toque.
Air cond is not cold enough.