I too would like to think that the fall in value will be less so, and I do believe that it is inevitable that the RX8 and 350Z will be compared, but they shouldn't be. I like the 350Z but the fact I have small children, rules it out. And thats exactly where the RX8 will have a niche value (and less depreciation) than most new cars because it fits the needs of those who would love a coupe but also need a "family" car (using family very loosely). And those about to enter their mid-life (like me) need both.




AnilS.

I think it's impossible to tell what the depreciation will be at this stage (which, I accept, may in itself may be a problem for some people).

Look at the S2000, which retains 60% of it's value after 3 years. I bet What Car didn't predict that when it was launched. And this is for an obscure high revving Japanese sports car with high running cost (sound familiar to anyone ??).

There aren't that many S2000's around, which helps, but how many RX-8's will there be? Judging by the pre-order numbers it looks like Mazda's plan to sell them in MX5-type quantities may not be working. This would mean we won't have the short term boost to resale values associated with long waiting lists, but it could be good for long term values - more rarity value.

Although, come to think of it, MX5's used to hold their value really well too. So like I said, we just don't know.

I'm in the lucky position of not having to buy the car as an investment but purely because it is the car I really want. I'll probably run it for several years so first year depreciation is irrelevant to me. If you're going to buy a new car than you have to accept the money loss hit, that's just the way it is. You're paying for the pleasure of being the first person to own and drive the vehicle. It's an expensive hobby but we all know the rules!

I am certainly more optimistic about resale value now, but what has Mazda predicted the values to be?

Does anybody know...or this still too early ?

The recent info I received from Mazda stated that they are talking to companies (eg CAP) to predict values, and that these are looking very promising.

I feel more comfortable now with the residuals that I did a few weeks ago, and agree with other people that when the car hits the road and people see it, demand may well rise significantly.

Be ineresting to see what the press say once they get hold of the cars to test during June/July.