MikeGratiano

Hello to all,

First off wanted to thank everyone for all the info I could have possibly needed to know before buying a RX8. From maintenance and what to look for, to that MONSTER writeup about what to look for in buying and owning an RX8, this forum has been more informative than any other I've been a part of.

I'm living in central Massachusetts and the search is on. I know there is a great care for maintenence and a passion that one needs to have for this car if you wish to own it, and im willing to go for it. I've owned plenty of Euros but nothing makes me happier than spooling up the revs on that Wankel. I have a budget of about $10k (flexible) and I'm looking for the right ride. Its been a pain. I've driven perfect bodied cars with mechanical failures that wouldnt allow the 8 to leave the lot, and beaters with a perfect service history. Its already been a crazy experience.

I just wanted to say thank you to all of the people in this forum and the knowledge that has brought me this far. Ill be posting a few links as my search continues, definitely would like some feedback.

HERE WE GO!

Mike Gratiano

MikeGratiano

Cars for Sale: 2005 Mazda RX-8 in Worcester, MA 01604: Coupe Details - 338057746 - AutoTrader.com


third one i have looked out, wish it had the red interior but overall a good service history and a strong engine

monchie

If you could go 06 and up, i think its better for you because it will have warranty leftover just in case something happens to the fragile engine and other things. Just remember, whatever you decide to get, get a compression test done, good luck.

j9fd3s

that one seems fine, the fit of the fender to bumper on the left front looks a bit weird, but other than that seems like the car is in good nick.

i've averaged about $1500 on top of the purchase price to get an Rx8 up to speed, they are all behind on maintenance, and then there are a few little worn out parts, like floor mats, and wipers, and then there is usually stuff missing, the battery cover and hold downs, clips and fasteners.

TomB

Mike,
Have you used Cargurus.com to search? That's how I found my 8. One nice feature is they will email you when a car that meets you're criteria becomes available or has a price drop. When you get your car, let me know. I'm in Leominster.
Tom

Corso

No they're not. Lot's of beautiful 8s out there from all years. The RX-8 is a classic example of, 'you get what you pay for'.

Being diligent in your search and willing to spend a few extra bucks can go a long, long way in finding an 8 that is joy to own, vs. one that is nothing but headaches.

j9fd3s

i should say i've been totally happy with mine, its just that most are off the normal maintenance schedule by now, and i've had to do different work than you would expect just by looking at the odometer.

oh and they all need cabin filters.

MikeGratiano

Excellent advice. A compression test is a must with these cars definitly. I'm looking to spend 10 or so and i have some money left over for replacement parts. I think the first things to be done will be plugs, coils, wires, tail light gaskets and checking that ecu code and clutch pedal. Oil and filter too immediately. Hopefull I can have some luck I really dont want a 330i

nogoer

Fate matched me with mine. Decided to get into the toy car market, a week later the RX8 was added to the list, the day after on my way home there was one parked for sale at the end of my road by a guy across town. At the time i had no clue about the engine issues, i just felt how strong the car was and how clean it was and jumped head first.

Only issue i have had in the year i have had it was an oil cooler line blew out. Besides that i did the usual tune up and replaced the coil packs as preventative within the first few weeks. As an 04 with 126K miles i guess i got lucky, car had every single bulletin done and runs like brand new. Never did have a compression test done either.

Coldwound

iTrader: (1)

RX8Club.com - View Profile: altspace

This guys selling his and its pristine. 2004 M/T sport with some light mods 78k i think new motor at about 48k.

MikeGratiano

I'm so excited honestly. I dont even care about the color at thispoint I just want to own one of these cars

and thank you coldwound ill hit him up

j9fd3s

planning like that, and you're in good shape!

imo i've bought 3 Rx8's in the last 12 months, and i've given up trying to plan what they actually need. i do check everything on your list, i just check first and buy parts second.

altspace

iTrader: (2)

Thanks Coldwound. Message sent. FYI - It's a GT model.

Yes, the car has 80K on it, and the engine was rebuilt by Mazda 6 years ago just before I bought it (equals only 47K on engine). Perfect running order and I've never had a problem. Love this car!

Also, not posted in the ad are some extras like a brand new set of floormats never used, spare tire kit, and more

Here's my CL ad. http://boston.craigslist.org/sob/cto/3637660375.html

MikeGratiano

I've read up so much on these cars but theres nothing that does not make me want one. I'd rather do all the maintenance and not be sorry later.

Altspace I'm 99% sure I'll be by this weekend with cash. Your car is pristine

altspace

iTrader: (2)

All the maintenance has been done, and then some.

Coldwound

iTrader: (1)

Wonder what vehicle is in the horizon for altspace


Posted from Rx8club.com App for Android

Captain Pepper

It would be nice to see the beauty go to a forum user instead of some random kid.

RadRedR3

That's an odd, and more than a little rude, thing to say. Judgmental much?

The purchaser is a forum user. Here he is on the forum. Buying a great car and educating himself on how to pick that car and maintain it in the process. As for "random kid", you don't know the OP, do you? So you don't actually know anything about him and you implying he won't take proper car of his new 8 is absolutely idiotic.

Ask Altspace if HE thinks it's "nice" this purchaser come along? It's this smug, elitest attitude that's so pervasive throughout this forum that kills participation. The part that I can't understand is where this condescension is coming from? This isn't 6speedonline.com. The average value of our "beauties" on this forum is probably $10k. It's a great car but its just a cheap used car. Anyone who's got the money and desire "deserves" it.

Hey, MikeG. Congrats and welcome. Remember, pics or it didnt happen. Lol. So enjoy your new toy and post lots of pics like any new dad.

kevinande

That is one the best CL ads I have ever seen. Lots of photos and very descriptive. You can tell you put a little effort into it. Nice ride too by the way love the rotors...think I will buy some?

altspace

iTrader: (2)

Thanks guys. I truly have loved every minute with my RX-8. She has never let me down.

Thank Kevin, I believe a well informative CL ad is what sells a car, or at least peaks the interest of a potential buyer. Like you said, I put a lot of effort into it, and just as much love into my car as an owner for the past 6 years.

Coldwound, I'm thinking of building up a Miata next. I really miss having a convertible in the summer time where I live on Cape Cod. I'm not leaving the rotary community forever though. Just waiting to see what Mazda will come up with next and then I'll decide what to do then.

altspace

iTrader: (2)

If she does not sell by then end of this month, then maybe I'll just keep her and go back into summer mode.

Captain Pepper

You entirely misread what i said. I was saying i would love it if Mike bought the car as he has educated himself on the car and gotten on the forum and im assuming will stick around. The car will not be lost to us. That's all. Nothing negative or condescending at all.

Mike, sorry if i came off as rude or anything.

RadRedR3

If that was your intention then please accept my apologies. It was late, maybe my Xanax had already kicked in? Lol. I like to see new guys that are enthusiastic encouraged to get into the RX8 scene. And you have to admit this is NOT the most noob friendly forum. Lol

Anyway, I'm sorry if I misread your post. If you're ever down in south Texas shoot me an email and we'll have some adult beverages and I'll invite some neighbors over and we'll have an impromptu cruise and parking lot car show.

My son has the R3, I've gotta GT500, my neighbor has a 67 GT500 KR and another has a Shelby 427 Cobra replica.

Take care.

Coldwound

iTrader: (1)

I personally would probably hop on the S2000 bandwagon if I were to go the convertible route, but that's just me, I'm not married to a certain manufacturer. I just can't go the 2 seater route yet, I need room for my dog. But I wouldn't mind seeing a miata fully decked out at a track.


Posted from Rx8club.com App for Android

altspace

iTrader: (2)

Sticking with the Mazda family. I have thought about a S2000. No word from Mike though, hope he's ok.