new2mazda

Hi all, I have been reading about the RX8 on this and other forums for a couple of weeks and cannot decide what to do, so I am looking for some advice. Basically, I would like to get a sports car (as a second car - already have a large SUV), but am about to have a child and so ideally would like something that can fit the family (and keep insurance cost down). I also travel a good deal for work - basically gone every other week. I live in a warm place (FL). I want a MT, but I have never really driven a MT (tried on a couple cars when younger, just for a couple of minutes, never actually owned one).

My friend had a 90s RX7 in high school and I loved that car - this is probably what drew me to the RX8 (I know it is different, but it still reminds me enough of it and I really like the design).

The price point is what I am looking for etc., etc. - basically, the ONLY thing holding me back is concern regarding reliability. This is particularly important in my case since I live in a warm location, and travel a lot (car would sit idle for a few days since my wife doesn't drive MT).

Ideally, I would like to purchase used (06 or later, < 23K miles) or possibly lease new depending on which is a better bet from a reliability/warranty/cost perspective.

Question 1: Given my circumstances (location, travel) will an RX8 give me a lot of problems? What if my wife starts the car and revs it once per day while I'm away - will that do the trick?

Question 2: Will a newer used model be more reliable than what I read are the most troubled cars, the 04s and 05s?

Question 3: Would you feel comfortable buying used in the model years I specified?

Question 4: Would you recommend this car and/or buy it again if you had to do it over?

I appreciate any insights - I really love this car and am looking for a reason to push me over the edge, but I cannot get over this whole reliability concern, esp. given my travel and warm location.

If you don't recommend this for me, can you please offer suggestions on alternatives?

Thanks

kersh4w

iTrader: (3)

car could sit for a year, as long as the battery is hooked up to a trickle charger, it should start right up.

no need to start it every day. even just letting it sit for a week or two should be absolutely fine. the thing you are getting at, but not quite there about is that IF you DO start it, then let it warm up before shutting it down.

some issues with 04 manuals, not a lot. most were 04 automatics. 05s and up are fine.

only engine with increased reliability would be the 09s as they have a 3rd oil injector in the engine.

i would definitely buy this car over again. either that or a z3 m coupe.

warm location is fine. travel is fine.

your only concern should be the 21mpg of premium on the highway.

johnny2343

have you driven one yet, "thats how it begins" you test drive it you'll buy it

Easy_E1

iTrader: (2)

Just buy the car, you'll love it. Get something newer than an '05 if you can. Newer is always better.

new2mazda

I have not yet driven one - I am trying to get as much info before I move into the driver's seat.

johnny2343

i bought an 07 new in april of this year and have already put 9000 miles on it and have had absolutely no problems, like i tell every one else though i can't describe it to you , you have to drive one, most opinions or rumors you hear about rx8s from ppl who dont own them arent exactly true

AJ's Shinka

I live in hot climates and no issues, but I do premix and have some cooling mods!

rddragoness

I'm in N AL, have 35K miles on my 06, and NO issues what so ever. I'll reiterate...

DRIVE ONE...All the rest of your questions will be non issues after that.

swoope

iTrader: (5)

life is a risk, the more you research the more you learn.

and do you feel lucky, punk!

beers

Razz1

What wisdom and knowledge Swoope..

i'll to that...

Nubo

The heat-related problems, afaik, have to do with temps of over 110F and extremely low humidity, especially affecting the AT versions. I know it feels hot in Fla, but that's because high humidity makes us feel hotter. It's not the same for cars (they don't sweat). I don't think it gets much over 100F in Fla but I could be mistaken?

I have a 2004, and I'd do it again, if gas prices were the same as they were when I signed the papers. Just be prepared for somewhat less than EPA mileage in City driving, though the EPA Highway mileage of 24 is actually attainable in my experience.

As far as sitting for a few days or a week, it shouldn't be a problem but you'd do well to put in a deep-cycle battery, or use a trickle charger "battery tender", etc...

SilverHokie

iTrader: (1)

You make me feel terrible to buying my 05. SIGH.

luis@championsmotorsports

its a well built machine,have no complaints.

C Ya L8r

You also have to be ready to spend some time/money on maintenance. Such as coils, plugs, oil/fluids, decarb. If you have the time/money to take care of the car it will take care of you.

mmats69

+1. Since the resale value is not so good, you can get a really good deal on a low mileage 05/06, possibly an 07.

Last year I only put 2,000 miles on the car. Never had an issue.

Just as others have said, test drive one and the questions asked will leave your mind.

As far as reliability goes, read this thread. https://www.rx8club.com/rx-8-discussion-3/milestone-150k-140240/

Ryan2008

+1 I had an 04 manual and an 02 sensor went, then the second gear synchro was starting to go. (I also drove it like I stole it half the time and that's the only problem I ever had) But keep in mind most RX8's still have a factory warranty, especially what you're looking for(factory warranty is 4 years 50,000 bumper to bumper but you can extend it whenever. I had extended mine to 3 more years, 75000 total for about $1700). I am now getting an 06 manual with about 20,000 for about $20k, that sounds about what you're looking for. Look around, you'll find one.

reaper1

Mine is an 06 and have never had any problems. During winter it goes away in storage and i turn it on , once a month . No problems . Will i do it again ?..... sure I would . If you do a lot of driving you'll have to worry about the gas issue . (sucks it up real good )

Its your call ...........................

04RX8man

yeha you need to drive one to really know you will have no problems climate wise or distance wise and buy the MT you will enjoy the car so sososo much more with the MT it's easy to learn there are alot of ppl here that learned on the 8....Welcome to the Addiction (almost)

new2mazda

Thanks everyone - I am starting to feel more confident in this. Now all I have to do is get respectable enough at stick to go to the dealer for a test drive and convince my wife that we "need" another car.

04RX8man

drive it and u will understand

RotoRocket

iTrader: (1)

I beg your pardon.

'05 is the finest vintage of RX8 ever created.

OP, daily driver here, even in winter. Backseat is highly functional, car is great in snow with aggressive snow tires, ride quality is very proper for such a balanced and amazing handling car.

Just check the oil frequently, and you're all set.

I can't go back to any other car. The 8 ruined me on conventional cars.

I'm also averaging about 21mpg with a 6 speed.

rddragoness

Go test drive an AT....They handle the same....just push it. You can't hurt it! Then, once you buy the MT you can work on the respectability of your MT skills. It won't take you long, I can guarantee you this much.

The best way to convince the wife is take her with you, let her drive it too, and show her all the room in the back seat for children, car seats, depending on your needs. The deep well in the trunk. You'd be Amazed at what you can get in one, including camping gear, and enough food to feed 9 people for three days! ( dont ask me how I know this) .

Ross_Dawg

iTrader: (2)

Tell your wife about its 8 airbags, rear seats, 4 doors, and sedan insurance and you'll be driving off the lot in no time

04RX8man

^^very true

DefinitiveDetour

"Lifes a Lottery.... Be Lucky."

-Jimmy Carr on Top Gear