RX-8 for a first car (not teenager)
07-18-2006, 04:24 AM
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RX-8 for a first car (not teenager)
Hi all.
I've been in need of a car for a while and in my research the RX-8 has stood out as with it's performance and unique design (both mechanical and visual), but i'm wondering if it is too much 'car' for me with my driving experience level.
I'm a soon to be 21 year-old college student (major EE). I've had my licence for a while now, but I've haven't had my own car--just driven my families'. I live on campus so I haven't had much need to drive, but I want to get a car so I can venture beyound my immediate area.
I've read forum posts (here and elsewhere) about people asking if they should get an RX-8 for their 15/16 year-old, and the answer has been that it is not a car you want left to an inexperienced, teenage driver. My question is, do you think its too much for a first car (even for a 20 year old) or do you think that I'll be as safe with it as any other car?
I know how to drive, and do. It just that I don't have a ton of miles and years of driving experience that most people seem to have when they get an RX-8. Also, how do you think the insureance will look at it? (I'm out of the most dangerous <18 demographic, but still in the high cost 18-24 bracket) If you don't think the RX-8 is a good car for me (not that it isn't a great car), what other ones would you recomend? Mazda3 or 6?
Thanks for you help and input.
I've been in need of a car for a while and in my research the RX-8 has stood out as with it's performance and unique design (both mechanical and visual), but i'm wondering if it is too much 'car' for me with my driving experience level.
I'm a soon to be 21 year-old college student (major EE). I've had my licence for a while now, but I've haven't had my own car--just driven my families'. I live on campus so I haven't had much need to drive, but I want to get a car so I can venture beyound my immediate area.
I've read forum posts (here and elsewhere) about people asking if they should get an RX-8 for their 15/16 year-old, and the answer has been that it is not a car you want left to an inexperienced, teenage driver. My question is, do you think its too much for a first car (even for a 20 year old) or do you think that I'll be as safe with it as any other car?
I know how to drive, and do. It just that I don't have a ton of miles and years of driving experience that most people seem to have when they get an RX-8. Also, how do you think the insureance will look at it? (I'm out of the most dangerous <18 demographic, but still in the high cost 18-24 bracket) If you don't think the RX-8 is a good car for me (not that it isn't a great car), what other ones would you recomend? Mazda3 or 6?
Thanks for you help and input.
Last edited by Zarek; 07-18-2006 at 03:23 PM.
07-18-2006, 07:54 AM
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He's 20.. not twentty teen 
But I get your meaning..
Incidentally, by the time I was 20 I had 6 years of driving experience.. Looking back now, I would say I was pretty dangerous on the road.. Of course, there are people who've been driving 20 years who are still clueless..
But I get your meaning..Incidentally, by the time I was 20 I had 6 years of driving experience.. Looking back now, I would say I was pretty dangerous on the road.. Of course, there are people who've been driving 20 years who are still clueless..
07-18-2006, 08:33 AM
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ill be 25 in less than a month and i still do stupid stuff in this car the car just provokes you into doing it. i dont see any reason with you getting it just be careful until u get used to it and you will be fine. and for the love of god dont ride peoples asses thats probably the main cause of these stupid highway fender benders and something that pisses most people off =D.
07-18-2006, 08:55 AM
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Originally Posted by limepro
ill be 25 in less than a month and i still do stupid stuff in this car the car just provokes you into doing it. i dont see any reason with you getting it just be careful until u get used to it and you will be fine. and for the love of god dont ride peoples asses thats probably the main cause of these stupid highway fender benders and something that pisses most people off =D.
what he said
07-18-2006, 10:10 AM
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I think the fact that you are asking this question in the first place shows that you are clearly responsible enough to handle the car. It is a fun car, goes fast, but it also stops fast. You should be fine, I was 22 when I got mine and I'm still alive.
07-18-2006, 11:08 AM
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If you can afford it, if you are able to resist temptation, you will love it! You are living where weather and places to go make this one a pure pleasure.
The big thing is this is one car you will need to be sober to drive because the handling is instant, powerful, and ready. Forget a cell phone, a lot of crazy distractive friends, and the wild desire to show off!
You will be tempted by every punk with a spoiler and even little old ladies in Honda Civics will rev at you - and you will so want to run and play with them!
Also, you need a safe place to park it because on campus there can be a lot of car envy - some people will be unable to keep from keying it or throwing things on it - check with Dominion!
On the good side, people will want to talk to you, ride in it, and it is like wearing a Tux - it will make you feel good just to make the scene! Don't loan it to your friends and if your Dad drives it he may not give it back!
The big thing is this is one car you will need to be sober to drive because the handling is instant, powerful, and ready. Forget a cell phone, a lot of crazy distractive friends, and the wild desire to show off!
You will be tempted by every punk with a spoiler and even little old ladies in Honda Civics will rev at you - and you will so want to run and play with them!
Also, you need a safe place to park it because on campus there can be a lot of car envy - some people will be unable to keep from keying it or throwing things on it - check with Dominion!
On the good side, people will want to talk to you, ride in it, and it is like wearing a Tux - it will make you feel good just to make the scene! Don't loan it to your friends and if your Dad drives it he may not give it back!
07-18-2006, 02:44 PM
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Age has something to do with driving like an idiot, but not all of it. There are tons of idiots in their 40s driving to work while talking on their cell phones, eating a hamburger and doing their toe nails at the same time. WFT?
07-18-2006, 02:59 PM
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i know this is wrong because its a medical condition but i was driving up the 5 friday and this guy driving a pt cruiser with a serious twitch i dont know really what it was but 90% of the time it appeared he wasnt looking at the road pulled in behind me. needless to say i didnt stay where i was for very long but switched lanes as soon as i safely could i just didnt feel comfortable
07-19-2006, 01:13 PM
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I might not want the RX-8 as a first car, but only because it's pretty hard to see when backing up and changing lanes. In my experience, new drivers tend to have trouble backing up and changing lanes anyway, and most fender benders with new drivers seem to occur when the car is in reverse. That's my impression, anyway. I would want a car with better rear visbility, like a Passat or 3-series Bimmer or Audi sedan. Just my two cents. Try backing up in one and see.
07-19-2006, 01:55 PM
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I didnt bother reading the other peoples post.... sorry guys.
you sound like a resonable responsable guy. I think the RX-8 would be fine for you. you obviously dont sound like a ricky racer thinking his car is the fastest thing on the road when it's not.
the RX-8 is by no means to hard to drive as it is not that powerfull, it does handle great and stops on a dime. the way I look at it, it's safer then a mini van.... as long as you can keep your foot out of it.
if you are the type of person that drives fast, and drives stupid in a sports car, then no.... dont get it, you will get yourself into trouble.
then again I do, and I got one.
if you are the type of person that likes to march to the beat of a differant drum, you like the looks, you like having a little more power then a volvo, and enjoy a nice ride..... this car is for you.
that help?
you sound like a resonable responsable guy. I think the RX-8 would be fine for you. you obviously dont sound like a ricky racer thinking his car is the fastest thing on the road when it's not.
the RX-8 is by no means to hard to drive as it is not that powerfull, it does handle great and stops on a dime. the way I look at it, it's safer then a mini van.... as long as you can keep your foot out of it.
if you are the type of person that drives fast, and drives stupid in a sports car, then no.... dont get it, you will get yourself into trouble.
then again I do, and I got one.
if you are the type of person that likes to march to the beat of a differant drum, you like the looks, you like having a little more power then a volvo, and enjoy a nice ride..... this car is for you.
that help?
07-19-2006, 11:01 PM
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I am 21, in college (ChE) and just traded in my hand-me-down Volvo S70 for a Black '05 8. Far and away the best decision I've made in my young life. Because it has 4-doors the insurance wont spike very much, less than an MS6. It is also practical for the needs of a college student: I managed to fit all my books, dvd's, clothes, collapsable shelves, stereo, and a set of golf clubs when I migrated to Golden, CO for the summer. The only negative thing is the gas prices (low mpg/premium gas), but if you can eat them 'till you graduate, no biggie. Another added bonus is that it only seats 4 (and not very comfortably) so you wont be the driver of choice for road trips. Trust me, if you buy this car you will look back at all the other cars you could've had and will reconfrim your decision every time. I still drive by Mazda dealerships see the 8's and think "I want that", but I have that, and that is a good feeling.
07-19-2006, 11:41 PM
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I'm 18, have had the car since 16, and I don't see why it wouldn't be a good car if you're careful and if you can afford it. I don't think that's an age or experience thing as much as it is a responsibility thing. I can't tell you how many times people have asked me "How fast have you gone man?" I think the highest I've gotten it up to is around 72 MPH on a 65 MPH highway. I'm very careful with the car, don't speed 99% of the time (note the 72 MPH, if you consider that speeding), and I haven't had any trouble at all. It's only for the "experienced" if you drive like a nut or get distracted easily. Granted, that's the case for most teenagers and those who haven't driven much, but it doesn't go for all drivers. I'd say I've had three or four close calls where I got distracted, usually due to other cars doing stupid things, but the brakes have saved me at all times. Of course I wasn't driving real close to the car in front of me, so once again the responsible driving helped.
As far as insurance goes, I'm insured on my car and both of my parents' cars for around $2400 a year. I'm on their plan so that lowered it, but if you look at the breakdown for all of the cars, it costs me less to be insured on the 8 than it does on my parents' four-door Dodge Stratus.
Lastly, as far as control, I highly recommend a performance driving class. While I've only gone to one, I honestly think it has made me a much better driver, given my experience. Most times people screw up after they make a mistake, panic, and then make another mistake. Having performance-driven my car both in dry and wet weather (it rained during the class), I can tell you I am much more comfortable driving in different situations. The class helped me learn the limitations of the car, and that has enabled me to keep my driving under control when I know I'm about to push the limits. Had I not taken the class, I'm sure I would have done something stupid when a new situation came up.
I love my car, I wouldn't trade it in for anything, and as I always say, it's the car that brags for you.
Note to the "you drive slow" flamers: You don't have to drive fast to enjoy the power of the 8. :-)
As far as insurance goes, I'm insured on my car and both of my parents' cars for around $2400 a year. I'm on their plan so that lowered it, but if you look at the breakdown for all of the cars, it costs me less to be insured on the 8 than it does on my parents' four-door Dodge Stratus.
Lastly, as far as control, I highly recommend a performance driving class. While I've only gone to one, I honestly think it has made me a much better driver, given my experience. Most times people screw up after they make a mistake, panic, and then make another mistake. Having performance-driven my car both in dry and wet weather (it rained during the class), I can tell you I am much more comfortable driving in different situations. The class helped me learn the limitations of the car, and that has enabled me to keep my driving under control when I know I'm about to push the limits. Had I not taken the class, I'm sure I would have done something stupid when a new situation came up.
I love my car, I wouldn't trade it in for anything, and as I always say, it's the car that brags for you.
Note to the "you drive slow" flamers: You don't have to drive fast to enjoy the power of the 8. :-)
07-19-2006, 11:55 PM
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Originally Posted by aireyc
.....I think the highest I've gotten it up to is around 72 MPH on a 65 MPH highway....Note to the "you drive slow" flamers: You don't have to drive fast to enjoy the power of the 8. :-).......
I'm not flaming, but, seriously? 72 in 2 years? That's it? I by no means condone wreckless driving, but this is like dating a hooker for two years and never even popping a feel.
07-19-2006, 11:56 PM
#24
nice thoughts!!!!
wow,
2400 a year... ouch.... i would have to work 4 days a week or get ride of my bike......
as to car school... rain, aint it cool..... changes the rules, fast..
beers
wow,
2400 a year... ouch.... i would have to work 4 days a week or get ride of my bike......
as to car school... rain, aint it cool..... changes the rules, fast..
beers
Originally Posted by aireyc
I'm 18, have had the car since 16, and I don't see why it wouldn't be a good car if you're careful and if you can afford it. I don't think that's an age or experience thing as much as it is a responsibility thing. I can't tell you how many times people have asked me "How fast have you gone man?" I think the highest I've gotten it up to is around 72 MPH on a 65 MPH highway. I'm very careful with the car, don't speed 99% of the time (note the 72 MPH, if you consider that speeding), and I haven't had any trouble at all. It's only for the "experienced" if you drive like a nut or get distracted easily. Granted, that's the case for most teenagers and those who haven't driven much, but it doesn't go for all drivers. I'd say I've had three or four close calls where I got distracted, usually due to other cars doing stupid things, but the brakes have saved me at all times. Of course I wasn't driving real close to the car in front of me, so once again the responsible driving helped.
As far as insurance goes, I'm insured on my car and both of my parents' cars for around $2400 a year. I'm on their plan so that lowered it, but if you look at the breakdown for all of the cars, it costs me less to be insured on the 8 than it does on my parents' four-door Dodge Stratus.
Lastly, as far as control, I highly recommend a performance driving class. While I've only gone to one, I honestly think it has made me a much better driver, given my experience. Most times people screw up after they make a mistake, panic, and then make another mistake. Having performance-driven my car both in dry and wet weather (it rained during the class), I can tell you I am much more comfortable driving in different situations. The class helped me learn the limitations of the car, and that has enabled me to keep my driving under control when I know I'm about to push the limits. Had I not taken the class, I'm sure I would have done something stupid when a new situation came up.
I love my car, I wouldn't trade it in for anything, and as I always say, it's the car that brags for you.
Note to the "you drive slow" flamers: You don't have to drive fast to enjoy the power of the 8. :-)
As far as insurance goes, I'm insured on my car and both of my parents' cars for around $2400 a year. I'm on their plan so that lowered it, but if you look at the breakdown for all of the cars, it costs me less to be insured on the 8 than it does on my parents' four-door Dodge Stratus.
Lastly, as far as control, I highly recommend a performance driving class. While I've only gone to one, I honestly think it has made me a much better driver, given my experience. Most times people screw up after they make a mistake, panic, and then make another mistake. Having performance-driven my car both in dry and wet weather (it rained during the class), I can tell you I am much more comfortable driving in different situations. The class helped me learn the limitations of the car, and that has enabled me to keep my driving under control when I know I'm about to push the limits. Had I not taken the class, I'm sure I would have done something stupid when a new situation came up.
I love my car, I wouldn't trade it in for anything, and as I always say, it's the car that brags for you.
Note to the "you drive slow" flamers: You don't have to drive fast to enjoy the power of the 8. :-)
07-20-2006, 12:03 AM
#25
Originally Posted by swoope
nice thoughts!!!!
wow,
2400 a year... ouch.... i would have to work 4 days a week or get ride of my bike......
as to car school... rain, aint it cool..... changes the rules, fast..
beers
wow,
2400 a year... ouch.... i would have to work 4 days a week or get ride of my bike......
as to car school... rain, aint it cool..... changes the rules, fast..
beers
.